The History and Training of Bernese Mountain Dogs for Cheese Cart Pulling

The Bernese Mountain Dog (BMD) is a versatile breed that has a rich history of working on Swiss farms, including pulling milk and cheese carts to and from the market. These gentle giants possess the strength, endurance, and natural instinct to excel at carting activities, making them a popular choice for those interested in this traditional Swiss pastime.

The History of Bernese Mountain Dogs Pulling Cheese Carts

Bernese Mountain Dogs were originally bred in the Bern region of Switzerland to assist with various farm tasks, including guarding livestock, herding cattle, and transporting goods. One of their essential roles was pulling carts loaded with milk and cheese to the local markets. This practice was an integral part of the breed’s heritage, as reflected in their Swiss name, “Berner Sennenhund,” which translates to “Bernese Herdsman’s Dog.”

The Bernese Mountain Dog’s physical attributes, such as their muscular build and sturdy frame, made them well-suited for the demanding task of cart pulling. These dogs were trained to work in harness, using their strength and endurance to transport heavy loads over long distances, ensuring the safe delivery of dairy products to the local community.

Training a Bernese Mountain Dog to Pull a Cheese Cart

Training a Bernese Mountain Dog to pull a cheese cart involves a step-by-step process that focuses on building the dog’s confidence, obedience, and understanding of the task at hand. Here are the key steps in the training process:

1. Harness and Equipment: Selecting the right harness and cart is crucial for the safety and comfort of both the dog and the handler. The harness should be properly fitted, adjustable, and designed to distribute the weight evenly across the dog’s body.

   
   

2. Basic Commands: Establishing a solid foundation of obedience commands, such as “stand-stay,” “let’s go,” “pull,” and “whoa,” is essential for controlling and guiding the dog during carting activities.

   
   

3. Gradual Introduction: Introducing the dog to the cart gradually, starting with a harness and line, and then progressing to the full cart setup, helps the dog become comfortable with the equipment and the concept of pulling.

   
   

4. Encouragement and Praise: Using positive reinforcement techniques, such as offering treats and verbal praise, helps build the dog’s confidence and strengthens the bond between the handler and the dog.

   
   

5. Safety Precautions: Ensuring the weight of the cart is within the dog’s capabilities, monitoring the dog’s behavior and body language, and stopping immediately if any signs of distress or discomfort are observed are crucial safety measures.

   
   

Benefits of Carting with a Bernese Mountain Dog

Engaging in carting activities with a Bernese Mountain Dog offers a range of benefits, both for the dog and the handler:

1. Exercise and Fun: Carting provides a fun and engaging way to exercise both the dog and the handler, promoting physical activity and mental stimulation.

   
   

2. Bonding: The shared experience of carting strengthens the bond between the dog and the handler, fostering trust, communication, and a deeper understanding of each other.

   
   

3. Practical Use: Trained Bernese Mountain Dogs can assist with household chores, such as carrying groceries or hauling firewood, making them a valuable asset in daily life.

   
   

4. Competition: Participating in draft tests and competitions can be a rewarding experience, allowing the handler to showcase their dog’s skills and earn certifications.

   
   

Safety Considerations

While carting with a Bernese Mountain Dog can be a fulfilling activity, it is essential to prioritize safety throughout the process. Key safety considerations include:

1. Weight Limits: Ensuring the weight of the cart is within the dog’s capabilities to avoid overexertion or injury.

   
   

2. Harness Fit: Ensuring the harness fits comfortably and is properly adjusted to prevent discomfort or injury.

   
   

3. Monitoring: Continuously monitoring the dog’s behavior and body language, and stopping immediately if any signs of distress or discomfort are observed.

   
   

By following these safety guidelines and providing proper training, handlers can enjoy the rewarding experience of carting with their Bernese Mountain Dogs while ensuring the well-being of their canine companions.

Conclusion

The Bernese Mountain Dog’s rich history and natural inclination for pulling carts make them an ideal breed for carting activities. With the right training, equipment, and safety precautions, handlers can engage their BMDs in this traditional Swiss pastime, fostering a strong bond, providing exercise, and showcasing the breed’s versatility and strength.

References:
– Dogster. (2024). Bernese Mountain Dog Carting: History & How to Train Them. Retrieved from https://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/bernese-mountain-dog-carting
– Bernese. (n.d.). Carting with Bernese Mountain Dogs. Retrieved from http://bernese.co.uk/carting-with-bernese-mountain-dogs/
– BMDINFO. (n.d.). Carting with Bernese Mountain Dogs-Training-article. Retrieved from http://www.bmdinfo.org/bernerpedia/Carting_with_Bernese_Mountain_Dogs-Training-article.php
– YouTube. (2013). Bernese mountain dogs pulling carts at the Royal county. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hB5ya4Ptsng
– BMD CNC. (n.d.). Brief History of Carting. Retrieved from http://www.bmdcnc.org/draft-2/brief-history-of-carting.html