If you want to know more about Bernese mountain dogs, here is an post for you.
Are you planning to get a pet and you are bent on getting a dog this time, although you have a cat? So, you need to get a dog that can coexist with your cat, since seldom can these two pets live under the same roof.
But, there is one species that you can get, which scores high on being a very sociable creature, especially with other pets in the house. This description is about Bernese mountain dogs who have a spectacular appearance and a very amicable temperament.
These breeds were initially used for carrying loads, as they are very hardworking. Here, we would discuss their appearance, temperament, sociability, health risks, and breeders.
Appearance
The Bernese mountain dogs are of Swiss origin; probably, that is the reason why they have a thick and long fur coat, with three warm colors on it. The thickness of the coat definitely adds to the weather resistance, but it is also believed that the colors also add to it.
The fur is in extensive black, with streaks of russet and white at places. There are smudges of white on the chest, toes, and on the head. Similarly, it has streaks of russet on the toes, under the tail, on the sides of the chest, and on the cheeks.
The ears are triangular in shape and hang down along their face. There is a furrow on their forehead. They have a strong and well-muscled chest, and their brisket extends up to their elbow. Their muzzle is long and straight.
Temperament and Behavior
As stated earlier, they are extremely friendly and social dogs, and they can be great companions for the other pets that you have, which is really a remarkable aspect. They are also very friendly with the children in the family and within a day or two, the dog would be your child's favorite pet, though their looks are deceiving.
In spite of being huge, they hardly harm others. They are not aggressive at all and need people around them. They are intelligent, hardworking, robust yet very sensitive. These dogs can be groomed so that they can find better ways to vent their pent up energy, and the grooming has to be tactful, since they are sensitive to harsh treatment.
Though very friendly and sociable, they shy away from strangers, and they like to be in the protective environment of familiar people. It is advised most of the time that the dogs should be brought at a young age, since once they know the person and form allegiance with that person, it is difficult for them to shift their loyalty.
They hardly have a behavioral problem if you can give them enough companionship and include physical exercises in their daily routine. They can be watchdogs, but not guard dogs. They have to be allowed inside the house. These dogs can be really good walking companions, but it should be always remembered that their endurance levels are low.
You might have problems in training them with regards to their immature, puppy-like behavior, but have patience and you would make a fine pet out of your rambunctious and massive dog.
Breeding and Mortality
Apparently, Romans were the original Bernese mountain dog breeders, who got the breed to Switzerland, after which the Swiss also realized the qualities of the breed and started breeding them.
From the early 20thcentury, breeders have been showcasing the qualities of this dog, and they have been trying to enhance its qualities by crossbreeding it with various other breeds.
You can definitely check out a local breeder with the help of people who already have this dog for a pet, or you can also go online and get to know about the breeders who can provide you with a puppy of this breed, of a good lineage.
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It is observed that its lifespan is much lesser than that of other breeds that are of the same kind, and most of these dogs are dying of cancer; the most common types of which are histiocytosis, lymphosarcoma, fibrosarcoma, and osteosarcoma.