General Description: Large and muscular dog with a soft, wavy coat Height: 58 - 72cm Weight: 36 - 50kg Colour: Black, white and chestnut Working group Temperament The Bernese Mountain Dog is a loving, docile and cheerful breed. They love children and are extremely loyal companions. The Bernese Mountain Dog is very intelligent and easy to train. Although the Bernese Mountain Dog is never aggressive they do make an excellent natural watchdog. They are a very loyal breed. In fact they have trouble adjusting to a new owner after they are just 18 months old. The breed is fairly friendly towards others dogs and animals and welcomes strangers willingly. They remain boisterous for quite a while as they are slow to mature. The Bernese Mountain Dog should be well socialised as a puppy. Do not leave this breed alone for long periods as they can become destructive and depressed. Exercise The Bernese Mountain Dog will need a moderate amount of exercise to be stimulated both physically and mentally. A daily walk or run for around 40 - 50 minutes will be required. Grooming A weekly groom of the Bernese Mountain Dog with a firm bristle brush is recommended. Only bathe this breed when necessary. Health The Bernese Mountain Dog is generally a healthy breed, although they can be prone to hip dysplasia and eye trouble and some cancers. Life Expectancy 6 - 8 years History The name Bernese Mountain Dog is a rough translation of the German "Berner Sennenhund," meaning Bernese Alpine Herdsman’s Dog. Paintings from as early as the 18th century have been found to show the Bernese breed type. The original Berner Sennenhund was an all purpose farm dog, used to guard the farm and pull carts. The breed was rescued from near extinction by a Professor named Albet Heim around the 1900’s and has developed slowly ever since. In the late 1940’s there was a significant out crossing to a Newfoundland dog, with a resulting improvement in temperament and increase in size.