Bernese Mountain Dogs, also known as Berner Sennenhunds, are a large, sturdy and agile breed known for their impressive physical features and loyal temperament.
These dogs originally come from Switzerland, where they were highly valued as versatile working dogs, often assisting farmers by pulling carts, driving livestock, and serving as loyal companions.
Berners possess a distinctive tricolor coat of jet black, clear white, and rust, with the males typically being 25-27.5 inches tall and weighing 80-120 pounds, while the females grow to be 23-26 inches tall and weigh around 75-100 pounds.
When it comes to Bernese Mountain Dog litter size, there can be some variation. Several factors contribute to the number of puppies a Berner is likely to have in a single litter.
Key Facts
- Bernese Mountain Dogs are a large breed that typically have litters of 6-8 puppies.
- Factors that can affect litter size include genetics, age of the mother, and overall health.
- It’s important for breeders to carefully monitor the mother during pregnancy and provide proper nutrition and care.
- Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for being great family pets and are generally good with children and other animals.
- However, they do require regular exercise and grooming to stay healthy and happy.
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Litter Size and Growth
Average Litter Size
Bernese Mountain Dogs typically have litters with an average size of 6 to 8 puppies. However, litter sizes can vary, and factors such as the mother’s age and overall health can impact the number of puppies in a litter. It’s important to keep this in mind and ensure proper care is provided throughout pregnancy and after the puppies are born.
Growth Rate
The growth rate of Bernese Mountain Dog puppies can differ from one puppy to another within the same litter. Some puppies may grow more rapidly, while others may take a bit more time to reach their full potential.
Typically, pups weigh between 12-24 pounds at 8-10 weeks of age, with larger litters tending to have smaller puppies and smaller litters having larger pups.
By around 6 months old, male Bernese Mountain Dogs tend to weigh around 50 to 70 pounds and stand between 19 to 23 inches tall, while females weigh between 45 and 65 pounds and stand between 19 and 22 inches tall at the same age.
Growth Chart
The following growth chart provides a general overview of the growth and development of Bernese Mountain Dog puppies. Remember that individual puppies may differ and that this chart should be taken as a guideline rather than an absolute expectation.
| Age | Male Weight | Male Height | Female Weight | Female Height |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 months | 14 – 22 lbs | 11 – 14 inches | 12 – 18 lbs | 10 – 13 inches |
| 4 months | 30 – 40 lbs | 15 – 18 inches | 25 – 35 lbs | 14 – 17 inches |
| 6 months | 50 – 70 lbs | 19 – 23 inches | 45 – 65 lbs | 19 – 22 inches |
| 8 months | 60 – 90 lbs | 21 – 25 inches | 55 – 80 lbs | 20 – 24 inches |
| 12 months | 75 – 110 lbs | 23 – 27 inches | 70 – 100 lbs | 22 – 25 inches |
It is important to monitor your Bernese Mountain Dog puppy’s growth to ensure they are growing healthily and at a steady pace, avoiding any sudden weight gain or loss. Proper nutrition, exercise, and regular veterinary check-ups can help maintain their overall well-being throughout their growth stages.
Physical Features
Height and Weight
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large dog breed, sturdy and muscular, reflecting its working origins. Males typically stand between 25-27.5 inches (64-70 cm) tall at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller, ranging from 23-26 inches (58-66 cm) in height.
In terms of weight, males usually fall between 80-120 lbs (35-55 kg), and females are a bit lighter, weighing in at 75-100 lbs (35-45 kg).
Coat and Colors
The coat of a Bernese Mountain Dog is thick, silky, and moderately long, providing them with protection against harsh weather conditions.
Their coat is tricolored with a combination of jet black, clear white, and rust hues. The black covers the majority of their body, while the characteristic rust markings appear above the eyes, on the cheeks, on each side of the chest, and on all four legs.
The clear white typically forms a blaze on the face and extends to the chest, underbelly, and tip of the tail.
The ears of the Bernese Mountain Dog are medium-sized, triangular in shape, and set high on their head. Their expressive eyes are usually dark brown and almond-shaped, showcasing their gentle and intelligent nature.
Below this point in the article, we discuss the breeds history, temperament, and any health issues in case you’re still interested in picking up one of these wonderful dogs, even after learning how big they get.
Personality and Temperament
The Bernese Mountain Dog is known for its affectionate and sweet nature, making it a great family companion. It possesses a calm temperament, which contributes to its appeal as a household pet.
Compatibility with Children
Bernese Mountain Dogs are generally good with children thanks to their placid and friendly disposition. They are protective, gentle, and patient around kids, making them suitable playmates for children of all ages. However, it’s essential to teach children how to interact with dogs safely and respectfully, and always supervise their interactions, especially with a large breed like the Bernese Mountain Dog.
Training and Socialization
Training Bernese Mountain Dogs can be relatively easy, as they are intelligent and eager to please. Positive reinforcement methods, such as praise and treats, are recommended for training this breed. Consistent and patient training from an early age will help establish good behaviors and strengthen the bond between you and your canine companion.
Socialization is also crucial for Bernese Mountain Dogs. Exposing them to various environments, people, and animals from an early age will help develop their confidence and well-rounded personality. This will ensure they grow up to be a well-behaved and adaptable dog, comfortable in various situations.
Breed History
The Bernese Mountain Dog, also known as the Berner Sennenhund, has its roots in the Swiss Alps. Its origin dates back to over 2,000 years ago when the Romans invaded the Alpine region and brought with them their Molossian Hounds. These large, powerful, Mastiff-type dogs were bred for protecting farmland and livestock. These dogs are the ancestors of many large, Mastiff-type breeds, known as Molossers.
In Switzerland, the Bernese Mountain Dog became widely recognized as a versatile working breed. They were employed to pull carts, drive cattle to and from their pastures, and protect farms from predators. Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their hardiness and ability to withstand the harsh environments of the Swiss Alps.
Throughout the years, the breed’s standard has been refined and adapted. The Bernese Mountain Dog was first recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1937, with the standard being a direct translation from the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) standard at the time.
The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America (BMDCA) made revisions to the standard in 1980 and 1990, reflecting changes in the FCI standard and incorporating AKC requirements.
The Bernese Mountain Dog has come a long way from its origin in the Swiss Alps, and the breed continues to be highly regarded for its strength, versatility, and endearing temperament.
The breed’s rich history and noteworthy contributions as Swiss working dogs have made it a popular choice among dog enthusiasts all around the world.
Health Issues and Care
Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their affectionate and gentle temperament, making them ideal family pets. However, it’s essential to be aware of certain health issues that commonly affect this breed. The following information will help you better understand these health conditions and the recommended care for your beloved Bernese Mountain Dog.
Grooming and Hygiene
Regular grooming and hygiene are essential for keeping your Bernese Mountain Dog healthy. Their thick, silky, and moderately long coat should be brushed at least twice a week to remove dirt, bacteria, and prevent matting. Additionally, trim your dog’s nails and regularly clean their ears to prevent infection.
Common Health Issues
There are several common health issues that may affect Bernese Mountain Dogs. Some of these issues include:
- Cancer: This breed is more susceptible to several types of cancer than other breeds. It’s essential to monitor any abnormal growths or skin lesions and consult your veterinarian if you notice any changes.
- Hip Dysplasia: This is a genetic disorder where the hip joint does not fit together properly, causing pain and mobility issues. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy diet can help prevent the weight gain associated with hip dysplasia, but it’s also important to screen for this condition in puppies.
- Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia is a genetic malformation of the elbow joint. Early detection and treatment are necessary to manage this condition effectively.
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV): This life-threatening condition, also known as bloat, occurs when the stomach fills with gas or food and twists on itself. It requires immediate emergency intervention. To minimize the risk of GDV, feed your dog smaller, more frequent meals and avoid intense exercise after eating.
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