How to Identify a Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of four Swiss mountain dog breeds. Also called Berners, they were originally used as farm dogs in Switzerland and are members of the working group. [1] Bernese Mountain Dogs can be confused with some other dog breeds, but this wikiHow will help you identify the key traits of a Berner.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Looking at Body Structure

  1. Bernese Mountain Dogs are large dogs. They have a height of 23–27.5 inches (58–70 cm) and can weigh from 70 to 115 pounds (32 to 52 kg). [2]
  2. The muzzle of a Bernese Mountain Dog is straight and strong. Berners have black noses, slightly developed flews, and a scissors bite. [3]
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  3. Berners have medium-sized ears that are high-set and triangular with gently rounded tips. The ears fold down to hang close to the head but are brought forward and raised at the base when the dog is alert so that the top of the ear is level with the top of the head. [4]
  4. A Bernese Mountain Dog's eyes are slightly oval in shape. They are dark brown with close-fitting eyelids. [5]
  5. The tail of a Bernese Mountain Dog is bushy and carried low. When the dog is alert, it may have an upward swirl, but it is never curled or carried over the back. [6]
  6. Bernese Mountain Dogs are sturdy, large, and balanced. Berners have a strong and firm back, well-muscled shoulders, and straight legs. They walk with a slow trot naturally but with speed and agility when working. [7]
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Assessing the Coat

  1. Bernese Mountain Dogs have moderately long coats. The coat is thick and either straight or slightly wavy, with a bright natural sheen. [8]

    Did you know? The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of four Swiss mountain dogs but is the only one with a long and silky coat. [9]

  2. Berners are known for their tri-colored coats. Their round color is jet black, and they have white and rust-colored markings. They have a white blaze, muzzle band, tail tip, feet, and a white mark on the chest that resembles an inverted cross. Berners have rust-colored markings over their eyes, on their cheeks, on each side of the chest, on each leg, and under the tail. [10]
  3. Bernese Mountain Dogs are frequent shedders. Expect a good amount of shedding from one. [11]
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Recognizing Temperament

  1. Bernese Mountain Dogs are fairly steady-tempered. They are easygoing, calm, and gentle. [12]
  2. Berners are receptive to training in a slow manner. They should be handled kindly and with care as they can be sensitive. [13]
  3. As part of the working group, Bernese Mountain Dogs need exercise regardless of their calm nature. They are fairly active and enjoy working. [14]
  4. Berners are very strong dogs, capable of pulling more than their own weight. Because of their strength, a great exercise for them is pulling a cart or sled during the winter as they do best in cold climates. [15]
  5. Bernese Mountain Dogs always hold their ground but may be aloof around strangers. They are typically peaceful toward other pets, though males may show some aggression toward other male dogs. [16]
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      Tips

      • If you wish to identify the breed of your own dog, consider using a DNA test. DNA testing will confirm if your dog is a Bernese Mountain Dog.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/bernese-mountain-dog/
      2. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/bernese-mountain-dog/
      3. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/BerneseMountainDog.pdf
      4. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/BerneseMountainDog.pdf
      5. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/BerneseMountainDog.pdf
      6. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/BerneseMountainDog.pdf
      7. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/BerneseMountainDog.pdf
      8. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/BerneseMountainDog.pdf
      9. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/bernese-mountain-dog/
      1. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/BerneseMountainDog.pdf
      2. ↑ https://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/reviews/bernesemountaindogs.html
      3. ↑ https://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/reviews/bernesemountaindogs.html
      4. ↑ https://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/reviews/bernesemountaindogs.html
      5. ↑ https://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/reviews/bernesemountaindogs.html
      6. ↑ https://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/reviews/bernesemountaindogs.html
      7. ↑ https://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/reviews/bernesemountaindogs.html

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