Bernese Mountain Dog Breed Information & Care

If you’re lucky enough to share your life with a Bernese Mountain Dog (affectionately known as a “Berner”), you already know you’ve got something special on your hands—or paws! For those of you contemplating bringing this gentle giant into your family, let’s delve into what makes Berners not just awesome, but truly spectacular companions.

The Irresistible Berner: Traits to Fall For

Family-Focused: The Berner adores family life and fits right in, whether you have kids, cats, or other canine siblings.
Child's Best Friend: Particularly wonderful with children, they are as patient as they are large.
Affection Overload: If you love cuddles, you’re in luck! Berners are lovebugs.
Devoted Companions: Their loyalty knows no bounds; a Berner will be by your side through thick and thin.
Guardian Angel: Though not aggressive, their loud bark makes them an effective watchdog.
Smarty Paws: These dogs are whip-smart and remarkably trainable.

The Less-Than-Fluffy Side:

Hairy Situations: Expect to find Berner hair. Everywhere. Regular brushing is non-negotiable.
Health Matters: They can be prone to certain health issues, so regular vet visits are a must.
Busy Paws: Without enough exercise, they might turn your yard into an excavation site or your shoes into chew toys.
Late Bloomers: Berners mature slowly and can be a bit sensitive during their extended puppyhood.
Stranger Danger: They can be reserved around unfamiliar faces.
Summer Struggles: These dogs were built for cooler climes and don't fare well in the heat.

A Storied Past: The Bernese Heritage

Originating in the picturesque Swiss mountains during the early 18th century, Berners were multi-talented dogs skilled in droving, guarding, and draft work. Even today, you can see them proudly pulling carts at drafting events!

Lifespan & Health Tips

Sadly, these gentle giants have a shorter lifespan, averaging between 7-9 years. They’re susceptible to health issues like hip or elbow dysplasia, bloat, and cancer. Early detection is crucial for a happy, healthier life, so be diligent about vet check-ups.

The wondrous world of Bernese Mountain Dogs

So, is it worth it? Absolutely! The Berner is a calm, gentle soul who, when properly socialized, becomes an irreplaceable member of the family. If you’re looking for a furry friend who’s a gentle giant, brimming with love and loyalty, a Berner might just be your perfect match!

Genetic Predispositions for Bernese Mountain Dogs

The Scary Reality of Bloat

If your Bernese Mountain Dog suddenly starts acting restless or attempts to vomit but nothing comes out, it’s time for an emergency trip to the vet! These could be signs of bloat, a condition that is as scary as it sounds and is more common in breeds like the Bernese. The stomach fills with gas and twists upon itself, cutting off blood supply. It’s not a “wait and see” situation; we’re talking life or death within 30 minutes. The good news? There’s preventive surgery to help make this less likely. Time is of the essence here, folks.

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: The Joint Dilemma

Love to see your Berner running in the yard? We do too, but we also know they’re prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. If your pup starts limping or has trouble rising, it could be early signs of joint issues. Get it checked ASAP, because early treatment makes all the difference. We’ll use X-rays to identify the problem, and there are surgical options for severe cases. Pro tip: Keep your Bernese’s weight in check to lessen the strain on those joints.

OCD: Not What You Think!

No, we’re not talking about obsessive cleaning. In Berneses, OCD stands for Osteochondritis Dissecans, a condition where their joint cartilage doesn’t attach well to the bone. Rapid growth can be a culprit, so make sure you’re not overfeeding your puppy and stick to large-breed puppy diets. Your pup’s weight should be checked every 3-4 weeks.

The Foggy World of Cataracts

Got an older Bernese? Keep an eye out for cloudy eyes—no pun intended. Cataracts can slowly rob them of their sight, although many dogs adapt surprisingly well. But if you notice this happening, we can discuss surgical options to restore sight.

Be Careful with Cuts: Bleeding Disorders Alert!

Bernese Mountain Dogs may look sturdy, but they’re often prone to bleeding disorders like Von Willebrand’s disease. These conditions can hide in plain sight until an injury or surgery reveals the problem. That’s why we recommend clotting tests before any surgical procedure.

The Silent Struggle with Arthritis

It’s not just humans who struggle with arthritis; your aging Bernese might be suffering in silence. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Treatment started early can make a world of difference, so don’t ignore signs like stiffness or difficulty moving. And remember, weight management and proper exercise can be a lifesaver.

The Knee Nightmare: Cranial Cruciate Ligament Tear

A torn cruciate ligament can make your active Berner’s life a misery. Surgery, combined with physical therapy and pain management, can get them back on their paws. Keep their weight balanced and avoid high-stress activities like Frisbee to lessen the risk.

Itchy and Scratchy: Dealing with Allergies

Does your Bernese constantly lick their paws or rub their face? Those could be signs of “atopy,” a skin allergy condition common in the breed. While it might get worse with age, numerous treatments can help manage the symptoms.

The Mystifying World of Canine Epilepsy

If your Bernese has a seizure, it’s a heart-stopping moment. But understanding the different types—reactive, secondary, and primary—can help you navigate treatment options for your pet’s epilepsy. Lifelong medication and regular blood tests often become the new normal. And a pro tip: never try to control your dog’s mouth or tongue during a seizure; you might get bitten.

Addison's Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism)

Hey there, Bernese parents! Let’s chat about a condition called Addison’s Disease, or hypoadrenocorticism. This hormonal disorder occurs when your fur baby’s adrenal glands aren’t producing enough hormones to keep things running smoothly. The symptoms can be pretty sneaky because they mimic other health issues. But the good news is that a specialized timed blood test can help diagnose this condition. Bernese Mountain Dogs are somewhat more likely to develop Addison’s, so during each vet visit, we’ll be watching for any warning signs and may even recommend regular electrolyte level tests. If left untreated, it’s a serious issue, so catching it early is vital!

Lymphoma

Now, onto a subject no one likes talking about: cancer. Specifically, lymphoma, which affects Bernese Mountain Dogs more often than other breeds. This cancer impacts white blood cells, meaning it can appear almost anywhere in the body. While that sounds scary, here’s the silver lining: lymphoma is one of the most treatable forms of cancer in dogs, with a good success rate when chemotherapy is administered. It can be an emotional and financial commitment, but early detection via blood tests can make a world of difference. So keep an eye out for any unusual symptoms like swollen glands or labored breathing.

Hemangiosarcoma (Bleeding Tumor)

Hemangiosarcoma, a type of bleeding tumor that is unfortunately more common in Bernese Mountain Dogs. These nasty tumors often develop in the spleen and can become extremely large before any symptoms show. They can even rupture, leading to internal bleeding. Regular wellness tests for seniors can help spot early signs, so make sure to keep up with those yearly check-ups and ultrasounds!

Degenerative Myelopathy

Similar to ALS in humans, Degenerative Myelopathy is a neurological condition affecting Berneses more often than other breeds. It weakens the hind legs, eventually causing paralysis and incontinence. While there is no cure, treatments like rehab, exercise, acupuncture, and dietary supplements can offer some relief. Genetic testing is also available to identify the risk early on.

Eyelid Abnormality (Entropion)

Berner owners, watch those eyes! Entropion is a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing the lashes to scrape the eyeball. As you can imagine, it’s incredibly irritating and can lead to blindness. Early surgical correction usually resolves the issue, especially if you catch it quickly.

Kidney Disease (Glomerulonephropathy)

Kidney disease, specifically Glomerulonephropathy, can also be an issue for our beloved Berners, sometimes striking at a young age. Yearly urine analysis can help us catch this problem early, making treatment more effective and less costly. Diet changes might also be in the cards to manage the condition better.

Bone Pain (Eosinophilic Panosteitis)

Ever heard of “growing pains”? In young Berners, a condition called eosinophilic panosteitis causes painful inflammation in the leg bones. While it doesn’t cause permanent damage, it does require pain medication for relief. If your pup starts limping, it might be time for an X-ray and some medication to get them back on their paws.

Pyometra

For the ladies in the Berner world, Pyometra is a severe bacterial infection of the uterus that can develop after each heat cycle. It’s an emergency situation that may require surgery. If you’re not planning on breeding your Bernese, spaying is often the best route for prevention.

Hemolytic Anemia and Thrombocytopenia

Your Berner may also be more susceptible to rare blood diseases like hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia, where the immune system begins attacking red blood cells or platelets. This can cause severe symptoms, including abnormal bleeding and lethargy. Early detection via blood clotting tests can be lifesaving, especially before any surgical procedures.

Liver Problems (Portosystemic Shunt)

Last but not least, let’s talk liver! Berners are more likely to have a liver disorder called portosystemic shunt (PSS). Also called a liver shunt. It essentially short-circuits the blood flow around the liver, depriving it of what it needs to function correctly. Symptoms can include stunted growth and seizures. Regular liver function tests and possibly ultrasound scans can help diagnose this issue, which may require surgery or medication.

Bernese Mountain Dogs