Bernese Mountain Dogs are a beloved breed known for their gentle nature, intelligence, and striking appearance. However, like any breed, they come with both advantages and disadvantages. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key pros and cons of owning a Bernese Mountain Dog, as well as delve into their health and grooming requirements.
The Pros of Owning a Bernese Mountain Dog
Wonderful Family Dogs
Bernese Mountain Dogs are incredibly gentle with children and protective of their families. They are easy to train and aim to please their owners, making them an excellent choice for families.
Intelligent and Trainable
Berners are highly intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement training. They enjoy learning new tricks and commands, and their eagerness to please makes them a joy to train.
Loyal and Social
Bernese Mountain Dogs are social dogs that thrive on interaction with their families. They are known for their unwavering loyalty and will often follow their owners around the house.
Gentle Giants
Despite their large size, Bernese Mountain Dogs are calm and gentle, making them ideal for families with children. They are patient and tolerant, and their gentle nature is one of their most endearing qualities.
Sense of Humor
Berners are known to have a playful and mischievous side, often hiding items or sneaking up on their owners. Their sense of humor can provide endless entertainment for their families.
The Cons of Owning a Bernese Mountain Dog
Shedding
Bernese Mountain Dogs have a thick double coat that sheds heavily, especially during seasonal changes. Regular grooming is necessary to manage shedding and keep their coat in top condition.
Short Lifespan
Berners have a relatively short lifespan of 6-8 years, which can be a significant drawback for many owners. This shorter lifespan can be emotionally difficult for families to cope with.
Health Issues
Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to various health issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, bloat, and certain cancers. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventative care are essential to maintain their health.
Cost
Bernese Mountain Dogs can be expensive to purchase and maintain, with costs including high-quality food, insurance, and regular veterinary care. Owners should be prepared for these financial responsibilities.
Space and Exercise Requirements
Berners need ample space to move around and regular exercise to stay healthy. They are not suitable for small apartments or inactive lifestyles and require a significant time commitment from their owners.
Health and Grooming
Grooming Needs
Regular brushing and occasional baths are necessary to maintain the health and appearance of a Bernese Mountain Dog’s thick double coat. Shedding can be a significant challenge, and owners should be prepared to deal with a significant amount of hair around the home.
Health Issues
In addition to the health concerns mentioned earlier, Bernese Mountain Dogs are also prone to obesity, allergies, eye problems, and heart disease. Responsible breeders and regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to identifying and managing these issues.
Exercise Requirements
Bernese Mountain Dogs require regular exercise, such as long walks and playtime, to stay healthy and happy. They are not well-suited for sedentary lifestyles and may become bored or destructive without adequate physical and mental stimulation.
Real-Life Incidents
Shedding
One owner mentioned that their Bernese Mountain Dog sheds so much that they find hair in the most obscure places, including their food and even their toothbrush.
Health Issues
Another owner highlighted the importance of thorough breeder vetting due to the breed’s genetic health issues. They had to deal with several costly veterinary procedures to address their Berner’s hip and elbow dysplasia.
References:
- https://www.kevintheberner.com/blog/6-reasons-not-to-get-a-bernese-mountain-dog
- https://www.petinsurancereview.com/blog/bernese-mountain-dog-pros-and-cons
- https://figopetinsurance.com/blog/bernese-mountain-dog-breed-guide
- https://www.reddit.com/r/bernesemountaindogs/comments/442rat/pros_and_cons_of_a_bernese_mountain_dog/
- https://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/reviews/bernesemountaindogs.html
Sarah Johnson
Sarah Johnson is a devoted Bernese Mountain Dog enthusiast and regular contributor to Bernese Mountain Dog Pro. With over a decade of experience in raising and training Berners, Sarah brings practical knowledge and passion to her writing. Sarah lives in Colorado with her two Berners, Max and Bella.