What were Bernese mountain dogs made for?

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Each month we will be shining a light on different dog breeds in our regular series, Dog Breed of the Month. Next up, we take a look at everything you need to know about Bernese Mountain Dogs — including why they are brilliant for families.

Considering adopting a Bernese Mountain Dog? From interesting facts to what kind of owner is right for them, keep reading to find out all you need to know...

Is a Bernese Mountain Dog a good family dog?

Famed for being affectionate and good-natured, Bernese Mountain Dogs are believed to be one of the least aggressive dogs towards humans — making them excellent family dogs. Thanks to their calm spirit and willingness to play, they are brilliant companions for young children. They have been described by The Kennel Club as "a kind and devoted family dog".

Do Bernese Mountain Dogs suffer from any health problems?

"Unfortunately, this beautiful breed does suffer from health problems, including hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy (a spinal disease causing hind limb weakness and eventually paralysis) and cancers, particularly an aggressive form called histiocytic sarcoma, among others," PDSA Vet, Lynne James, tells Country Living.

"Prospective puppy owners should ask to see the results of these tests, and also the medical history of any potential puppy’s parents and grandparents. Speak to your vet for further advice on what the test results could mean for your puppy."

Are Bernese Mountain Dogs expensive to own?

Bernese Mountain Dogs are relatively expensive pets to welcome and maintain. According to the PDSA, their health insurance bills can be expensive, as can the food they eat.

Lynne tells us: "You'll need to mindful that Bernese Mountain Dogs can be expensive dogs to own, not least because of the amount of food they need! The cost of insurance as well as vet fees are also typically higher, due to their larger breed and some of the health conditions they are prone to."

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Can Bernese Mountain Dogs tolerate hot weather?

While Bernese Mountain Dogs can live in hot weather, they will need a little help from their owners to keep cool and comfortable when it's warm.

"They have a beautiful thick coat, which needs brushing regularly – owners have a lot of loose hair to deal with," Lynne explains. "Their thick coat and body size means bad weather won't bother them – they'll still need their walks in the rain and snow, even if we'd rather not venture outside. But they can sometimes struggle in the heat, so you'll need to take care they don't overheat on days when the temperature rises."

8 reasons Bernese Mountain Dogs are the best family dogs

1. They are excellent guard dogs
2. They are known to be great guardians
3. Bernese Mountain Dogs get on very well with children
4. They will easily welcome newcomers to the home, as long as they've been taught socialisation training
5. They have an even-temper and a calm disposition
6. They have a strong desire to keep family members safe
7. These pups are easy to train
8. Bernese Mountain Dogs want to please their owners, so are always up for a fun game together

Do Bernese Mountain Dogs shed a lot?

The friendly Bernese Mountain Dog will need to be groomed at least every two weeks, due to its thick, heavy coat. They shed moderately all year, so keep their fur soft and tidy by brushing it every day.

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Do Bernese Mountain Dogs need a lot of space?

Lynne explains: "Bernese Mountain Dogs were originally bred in Switzerland to herd cattle and pull carts as well as being family watchdogs. They are large dogs, up to 65kg in weight when fully grown, so need a lot of space and exercise."

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