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ABOUT DOG BREEDS
 BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOGS
Description Temperament Height and Weight Health Problems
Ideal Living Conditions Exercise Life Expectancy Litter Size
Grooming Origin Group Color
Breed Clubs Breed Rescues

Description
The coat of the Bernese Mountain Dog is thick and gives the dog a heavy appearance. Its glossy coat with unique markings of white and tan among jet black is eye catching. A strip of snow white starts at the crown, increases in size as it reaches the chin, and eventually blossoms across the broad chest. The eyes and nose are dark. Tan markings that resemble eyebrows, exist above the eyes. The long ears are silky and less fluffy than on any other part of the body. The ears hang low and curl slightly inward. The tail is long and bushy and hangs low. Its frame is wide and supported by strong legs.
Temperament
The Bernese Mountain Dog has come a long way since its days of cattle driving. While some types still exist on farms, the majority of the breed exists as pets. The breed has easily made the transmission from тАЬworkingтАЭ dog to household pet because it learns quickly and is generally obedient. While it can coexist with other household pets, it may not coexist as peacefully if the are male. Children are fine with the Bernese Mountain Dog as long as they arenтАЩt too young or too small since the breed can easily overpower them while playing.
Height and Weight
Male height: 23-28 inchesMale weight: 84-90 poundsFemale height: 24 inchesFemale weight: 80-100 pounds
Health Problems
Bernese Mountain Dogs may develop Gastric Torsion, eye conditions, and hip dysplasia. These conditions occur on occasion. Other than these conditions the breed is generally very healthy.
Ideal Living Conditions
Cool climates are the most suitable for the Bernese Mountain Dog. It can stay indoors in an air-conditioned dwelling, but will likely become inactive. The most suitable outdoor environment for the breed is one with a large yard and a tall fence. Although it may escape an inadequately made fence, it will remain close to its residence.
Exercise
This breed has a moderate amount of energy, but will not demand physical activities. It is likely to become inactive if left indoors for a significant amount of time without intervals of exercise. Despite its high energy level, a long walk is all that is necessary for it to obtain sufficient exercise.
Life Expectancy
The Bernese Mountain Dog typically lives for 8-10 years.
Litter Size
Average of 4-10 puppies
Grooming
Regular grooming is necessary to keep the coat of the Bernese Mountain Dog glossy and tangle free. Its coat sheds heavily, but brushing more often during periods of shedding can lessen the amount of fur that is shed. The coat only requires an occasional washing with a dry shampoo to avoid skin irritation. General dental and nail care should be performed on a regular basis.
Origin
Like many dogs of ancient times, accurate records do not exist about the Bernese Mountain Dog. Durin
Group
Working
Color
The rich coat of the Bernese Mountain Dog is 95% black, with small patches of reddish-brown on various areas of the body, including the chest and circling the eyes. Some types may have small patches of white on its tail and feet.
Breed Clubs
Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America, Inc. http://www.bmd.org Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Canada http://www.bmdcc.caBermese Mountain Dog Club of Quebeck http://www.geocities.com/Heartland?Pointe/5573/CQBB.html Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Great Britain http://www.bernese.co.uk
Breed Rescues
Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America Rescue http://www.bmd.org/bmdca.html Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Greater Seattle Rescue http://www.BMDCGS.org

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