Bernese Mountain Dog: Puppy Care Tips and Photos

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a relatively rare breed for most people. Experts know it as the Bernese Mountain Dog. It is a herding dog breed native to Switzerland, near the city of Bern. It's no coincidence that these dogs are called the models of the canine world, as they are considered one of the most beautiful breeds on earth.

They attract attention not only with their luxurious appearance but also with their peaceful nature, which no other breed can match. These dogs are excellent social dogs, making friends easily with other pets, and are also excellent nannies and guardians for children.

These are very powerful and hardy animals that can easily cope with any physical activity, so they have enough energy not only to play with children, but also to guard the house. dogs should always remain active, so owners must be sure to find some kind of work for them. Leaving them confined to an apartment all day can be a nuisance, as they might later discover chewed furniture and damaged belongings. Many owners are drawn to these dogs' exceptional agility and playfulness when choosing them, but they're unaware that this can create problems for them in urban environments.

In my homeland

The world owes the emergence of these attractive dogs to Switzerland. These creatures look like true aristocrats, but first impressions are deceptive, as they demonstrate their astonishing strength and endurance. have long, thick fur, which is especially important in the high Alpine climate. For local farmers, they are excellent companions, as they can be used to guard their flocks and farmsteads. These dogs can also be used to pull small carts loaded with milk. Therefore, the Bernese Mountain Dog can be not only a good companion and guard dog, but also a pack animal.

Breed characteristics

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a unique creature with a long, thick coat of tricolored color, which is what makes them so eye-catching. They have a powerful body while remaining quite agile. It's difficult to spot any flaws in their build. There are also no genetic abnormalities in this breed, so they rarely have many vices, which is not uncommon with most other toy breeds. These qualities make them the epitome of physical perfection. While being very brave and agile, they are also fearless, affectionate with all family members, and indifferent to strangers.

They behave surprisingly calmly when a criminal breaks into a house: they will not fuss or bark loudly, and the dog will not bite the criminal, but will only use force to incapacitate him, after which it will calmly wait for the police or the owner to arrive. Training a shepherd is more than a worthy occupation.However, Bernese Mountain Dogs are an exception in this regard, as is clearly demonstrated by a joke that has become widespread among the Swiss: "They are already born trained, they just need to be reminded what the commands sound like."

The character of a shepherd dog

It's time to take a closer look at the physical characteristics of this breed. On average, they weigh 45–47 kg, making them quite large. Females stand 63–66 cm tall, while males stand 66–68 cm.

Based on this, it can be concluded that there is virtually no difference between the sexes. People who have experience keeping Bernese Mountain Dogs know that these animals have a gentle and good-natured dispositionThey are very sensitive and cheerful. At the same time, they are very attentive watchdogs, but they will never make a fuss over trifles.

If a Bernese Mountain Dog exhibits any deviations from its characteristics, it's most likely due to improper training. This also applies to its character. For example, Some members of this breed may exhibit erratic behavior.However, they have the most pronounced physical defects. The most common are light bones, asymmetrical incisors, a solid coat color, or a white spot on the head.

The process of training a Bernese Mountain Dog deserves more attention. A distinctive trait of dogs of this breed is their constant desire for physical activity. This need is as natural for them as water and food. It is desirable teach them various commands in a playful way, waiting for them to release their first burst of energy. Growing up is a fairly long process, so when training an eighteen-month-old bear cub, remember that you're dealing with a puppy. An animal doesn't reach adulthood until it reaches two years of age.

Raising a puppy

So, you've brought home a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy. He requires special attention and care. After all, he's not much different from a child. You should be with him as often as possible, essentially becoming his mother, the same one who cared for him around the clock before you.

Try not to leave him alone for too long, make sure he is provided with good quality food at this stage of his life. Until he is 2 months old, he should eat at least 4-5 times a day.At 3 months, the number of meals can be reduced to three, and when your baby is 8 months old, it will be enough to feed him twice a day, like an adult animal.

Nutrition

A Bernese Mountain Dog's diet should consist of dairy products, primarily cottage cheese and sour cream. Milk is not suitable. Porridge cooked in beef broth will be beneficialTo help a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy grow faster, feed it meat and a raw egg at least once a week. As the puppy matures, meat and cereals can be added to the puppy's diet, replacing dairy products.

• When calculating the portion size for a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy, you need to use the following rule: the optimal volume will be considered to be the one corresponding to the volume of its head;
• A dog's diet should also include high-quality dry food, as it contains essential vitamins and minerals. However, when choosing food, make sure it's appropriate for your puppy's age.
• Babies are still fragile, so they can only eat it diluted in warm water. Adults, however, can be given it dry.
• You also need to make sure that the puppy always has fresh water.

Content Recommendations

When you bring a dog of any breed into your home, the first thing you need to do is give it its own personal space. This is especially important for the Bernese Mountain Dog. will feel uncomfortable when in a confined spaceTherefore, it's best to house it in a private country house where it will have ample opportunities not only to play but also to run. Keep in mind that leaving a dog of this breed alone is not advisable, as it can seriously affect its well-being. If left without contact with its owner for a long time, the dog will become sad and, in some cases, may even become ill.

Basic care for a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy:

• regular communication;
• feeding;
• brushing the fur;
• outdoor games.

It's worth noting that she's a big fan of swimming. If you have a pond near your home, take advantage of the opportunity and give your pet a few minutes of joy.

How to instill rules of conduct?

Let's reiterate that the Bernese Mountain Dog matures late. Think about how long it took you to explain to your child what is and isn't allowed. Typically, it takes at least four to five years. For a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy, it will take at least two years. In the early years of life a young Bernese Mountain Dog needs Pay special attention to him, because if he's left alone, he might wreak havoc in your apartment. But you can easily prevent this if you follow a few rules.

Practical recommendations

• The most important thing you need to understand first is to do everything possible to ensure your pet is never left alone for long periods of time. This is easily achieved if your family members go to work and school at different times, so that a relative can be with the dog at all times.
• If a situation arises where the Bernese Mountain Dog must be left alone, it is advisable to move him to an isolated room and bring a lot of his toys there.
• Another option is to move your puppy to a spacious crate with his favorite toys and treats. Your dog won't usually notice your absence for an hour, so you don't have to worry about your personal belongings. However, this option is only suitable if you need to leave for a short time. This method is acceptable if your puppy has been in a crate before, perhaps even allowed him to sleep in it at night.
• Teach your Bernese Mountain Dog to recognize what is and isn't allowed. If you notice your puppy has stolen your slipper, say sternly, "Mine," and give him a toy instead.

Conclusion

In recent years, many dog ​​breeds have emerged around the world, including many surprising ones. One of them is the Bernese Mountain Dog, which attract attention with their amazing activityTherefore, you need to keep this feature in mind when you decide to have this animal in your home.

Don't assume your pet won't notice your absence for a few hours. This should be taken with particular seriousness, as it's unknown how your shepherd will cope with the absence. Also keep in mind that Bernese Mountain Dog puppies remain puppies until they are 2 years old., so before they reach this age, you need to spend a lot of time with them, arrange different games and fun for them.