Bernese Mountain Dogs: Want to know more?
Whilst I was writing about the Bernese Mountain Dog, Lawrence Curran of Kenziebern Bernese Mountain Dogs was kind enough to discuss his experience of owning this fantastic breed. I'm sure this will be of much interest to those who are considering owning a Bernese Mountain Dog....
Q: What made you choose the Bernese Mountain Dog and what are they like to live with?
A: I looked on the Internet for large family dogs and came across the Bernese Mountain Dog. I instantly fell in love with this dog, powerful, strong, brave and handsome. They are great to live with, loyal, great with other pets, I can honestly say they are quite human. They hate getting told off, they just crumble and look like they could cry, just like having a child.
Q: The breed is known for its long coat. Approximately how much time does grooming take?
A: The Bernese have very easy coats to groom. Their hair comes out very easily and a brush once every week is fine. We found a wash out the back in good weather then using the blaster dryer was perfect.
Q: How easy is it to train a Bernese Mountain Dog?
A: Like all big dogs, they think with their belly. Some treats and they will be easy to train. The Bernese want to please you so they will gothe extra mile to ensure they please their owners.
Q: What do those considering becoming first time owners of a Bernese Mountain Dog need to be aware of?
A: Life expectancy of a Bernese is approx 7 years. Do your research and go to championship dog shows and source the best breeders. Ask them questions about health tests. Pedigree and longevity of grandparents Hips & elbow problems are the biggest problem with any big dog. Reputable Bernese breeders hip & elbow score before selecting a low scoring bitch to mate with to help the breed. A Bernese Mountain Dog doesn't eat as much as people think, no different to say a Labrador. Bernese were crossed bred using a greater Swiss dog & a Newfoundland. This is where they get the lovely coat from. Some also like to swim like the Newfie. Primarily Bernese are herding dogs that Swiss farmers got to pull there carts with milk and cheese urns on . They love to work and you can get them doing carting events in dog shows. Bernese are not big walkers and nightly run around the park etc is perfect. They also can be happily left until there owners come home from work and are not destructive like other breeds. As puppy's Bernese have a super cuteness so expect a lot of attention from people wanting a cuddle from a little teddy bear. When they get older the mature into a wonderful looking dog that had the wow factor. Given there huge size they have a happy friendly face that shouts come see me give me attention.
A big thanks to Lawrence and Kenziebern Bernese Mountain Dogs. All images are copyright Kenziebern Bernese Mountain Dogs.
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