The Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain dog or BMD is believed to be a cross between mountain dogs that originally came from Rome. When Romans entered Switzerland they brought this farm and cattle-herding dog with them. It almost became extinct in the 1800s, but the breed was rescued and taken to Berne in Switzerland where it flourished and gained the name. It arrived in the US in 1926. Now it is considered a family pet because of their affinity with children, although a genuine BMD is hard to find and expensive in the US.

As with the other Sennenhunds, the BMD is large, heavy and with a tri-color coat. It can be black with a white chest, and have rust-color markings on the eyes, the sides of its mouth, leg fronts, and around its chest. His expression is keen and alert, and the coat is thick and medium length.

The Bernese are famous for their calm temperament and they love children and being with people. Some clubs even offer cart-pulling workshops especially for this breed (like it used to do in Switzerland as a farm dog) because of their popularity as intelligent, affectionate, serene dogs who reach high obedience levels. This breed is outgoing and sweet-natured, and is a responsive animal and will reciprocate if treated well and lovingly.

Daily walks are recommended but it does not necessarily need vigorous exercise as it is not overly energetic. This dog loves colder weather, and does not do well in warm climates.

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