DEPRESSION-YOU ARE NOT ALONE

 

 

Dog Day Saturday 2024-03-02

Owning and interacting with pets, according to studies, can be a form of therapy for many. We have dedicated Saturday to dogs and Wednesday to cats, when we will post an article on each of those days. We will also post articles on occasion about other animals people may have as pets.  – Editorial Team

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Bernese Mountain Dog

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Kerstin othello, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

 

The Bernese Mountain Dog, also known as the Berner Sennenhund or Berner, is a large and sturdy breed that originates from the Swiss Alps.

Physical Characteristics:

1. Size: Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, powerful dogs. Males typically stand between 25 to 27.5 inches at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller, ranging from 23 to 26 inches.
2. Weight: Adult males typically weigh between 80 to 115 pounds, while females weigh between 70 to 95 pounds.
3. Coat: They have a thick, moderately long double coat. The outer coat is moderately long, straight, and somewhat wavy. The undercoat is dense and helps insulate them from cold weather.
4. Color: The Bernese Mountain Dog’s distinctive tri-color coat consists of black, rust, and white markings. The rust appears as symmetrical patches above the eyes, on the cheeks, on the sides of the chest, on all four legs, and underneath the tail.
5. Build: They have a strong, muscular build with a broad chest and straight legs. Their body is slightly longer than it is tall, giving them a balanced appearance.

Temperament:

1. Gentle: Berners are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They are typically good-natured and form strong bonds with their families.
2. Good with Children: They are often excellent with children and are known for their patience and tolerance.
3. Friendly: Bernese Mountain Dogs tend to be friendly and sociable with other dogs and pets when properly socialized.
4. Watchful: While they are not aggressive, they are naturally watchful and may alert their owners to the presence of strangers.
5. Intelligent: Berners are intelligent and trainable, although they can have an independent streak.

Exercise and Training:

1. Exercise Needs: Despite their large size, Bernese Mountain Dogs have moderate exercise needs. They enjoy daily walks, playtime, and activities that engage both their body and mind.
2. Training: Early socialization and obedience training are essential for Bernese Mountain Dogs. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, but they may be stubborn at times.
3. Work Ethic: Historically, Berners were bred as working dogs on Swiss farms. While many no longer perform these tasks, they still possess a strong work ethic and enjoy having a job to do.

Health:

1. Orthopedic Issues: Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to certain orthopedic issues, including hip and elbow dysplasia.
2. Cancer: Unfortunately, cancer is a significant health concern in this breed, with a high prevalence of certain types of cancer, such as histiocytic sarcoma.
3. Bloat: Like many large, deep-chested breeds, Berners are susceptible to bloat, a life-threatening condition where the stomach twists and fills with gas.
4. Short Lifespan: Sadly, Bernese Mountain Dogs have a relatively short lifespan, typically ranging from 7 to 10 years.

Grooming:

1. Regular Brushing: Berners require regular brushing to prevent matting and to remove loose hair, especially during shedding season.
2. Bathing: They do not require frequent bathing unless they get particularly dirty, as their thick coat has natural oils that help keep it clean.
3. Nail Trimming: Regular nail trimming is essential to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.
4. Ear Cleaning: Their ears should be checked regularly and cleaned as needed to prevent infections.

Living Environment:

1. Space: Due to their large size, Bernese Mountain Dogs are best suited to homes with ample space, such as houses with fenced yards.
2. Climate: While they can adapt to various climates, they prefer cooler weather due to their thick coat.
3. Family Environment: Berners thrive in a family environment where they can be included in daily activities and receive plenty of attention and affection.

In summary, Bernese Mountain Dogs are gentle giants known for their affectionate nature, intelligence, and striking appearance. While they require proper training, socialization, and grooming, they make excellent family pets for those with enough space and time to devote to them. However, potential owners should be aware of their health concerns and the commitment required to care for a large breed dog.