About The Breed

The Bernese Mountain Dog, also called the Berner or Berner Sennenhund, is a striking tri-colored dog who is big, loving, and loyal.  They are excellent with families and children, and are wonderful companions.  They are not a backyard/kennel/garage dog.  They are happiest, healthiest, and best behaved when allowed to be a regular part of the family.  When properly included as part of the family, Berners tend to be relaxed, mellow and well behaved. Berners are very sensitive to scolding or severe tones - the more gentle and kind you are, the more they strive to please and obey.  When allowed to be themselves, Berners bring your family happiness and love.

Wikipedia: The Bernese temperament is a strong point of the breed. They are affectionate, loyal, faithful, stable, intelligent, but sometimes shy. The majority of Bernese are friendly to people, and other dogs. They often get along well with other pets such as cats, horses, etc. They do not respond well to harsh treatment, although Bernese are willing and eager to please their master. Bernese love to be encouraged with praise and treats. The breed is sweet and good with children and overall, they are stable in temperament, patient, and loving. Bernese Mountain Dogs are slow to mature, and may display noticeable puppy-like tendencies until 2½ years of age.

The Bernese Mountain Dog, is one of the four breeds of Sennenhund dogs from the Swiss Alps. The name Sennenhund is derived from the German "Senne" (alpine pasture) and "hund" (dog), as they accompanied the alpine herders and dairymen. Berner (or Bernese in English) refers to the area of the breed's origin, in the Bernese Highlands.  

AKC Meet The Breed: Bernese Mountain Dogs

The Nature of a Berner is a must read post by Kaibab for anyone who is thinking of adopting a Berner, especially the explanation of "aloof".  Many people don't understand what that means in this breed.

The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America is also a great site to get additional information.

- PUPPY SOCIALIZATION - 

    Well socialized puppies usually develop into more relaxed, safer and enjoyable adult dogs. The first months of your puppy's life is an extremely important balancing act between the vital need to safeguard your pup from awful diseases, and the important education and experience of socializing.  Talk in depth with your vet about keeping your puppy safe from diseases like Parvo, and what sort of socializing is best for your pup's age and current vaccinations.  Bernese Mountain Dogs are one breed that thrive from being socialized early, within the first few months, continuing into adulthood.