Big, powerful, and built for work, the Bernese Mountain Dog is also very elegant and has a sweet and loving nature. Berners live to please their owners and are very placid.
They have a beautiful tri-colour coat which tends to be very high maintenance. Their coat is thick and long and the background colour is black, with red or rust and white markings. It requires daily brushing and grooming with proper brushes to keep the coat healthy and free of mats. Make sure to bathe them frequently with a detangling dog shampoo.
It is a little difficult for Berners to adapt to a hot climate due to their coat so taking the following steps can make their life easier:
- Berners do best in a climate-controlled environment during hot weather so make sure to keep them in air-conditioned with cool tile flooring or preferably in a basement.
- Keep water readily available 24×7
- Fans can also help this breed regulate body temperature.
- If you are taking your pooch for a walk, make sure to stay in the shade and keep a water bottle with you. Also, avoid walking them between 11a.m. and 5p.m.
- Provide them with cold treats like ice, popsicles, watermelon etc. This will not only keep them happy but reduces risk of heat stroke.
Following are some signs/symptoms that your canine is suffering due to heat exhaustion:
- Fatigue
- Circulatory collapse
- Red mucous membrane (gums)
- Excessive panting
- Dehydration
- Shaking
If you notice any of these symptoms please do not panic. Bring the Berner into shade or an air-conditioned room and slowly immerse him/her in cool water bath. If the symptoms continue to show please rush to a vet.
The Bernese Mountain dog is a large and hard-working breed so it requires a lot of nutritional value in its diet. Small additions of yogurt, cooked or lean meat, fish, eggs or fresh fruits and vegetables can be offered to your pooch as a way of introducing enzymes.
Some common problems to be aware of before buying/adopting a Bernese are:
- In a place like India, this breed is very high maintenance and needs a lot of attention, care, and exercise.
- Von Willebrand’s disease – This is a blood disorder in which the blood does not clot properly. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this problem. However, dogs can be treated with transfusions of blood or plasma
- Heart disease – Getting your dog adequate exercise including frequent cardiac exercise, helps keep your dog healthy.
- Epilepsy – Reducing stress and limiting changes to your dog’s environment can help to prevent seizures, as stress is known to ‘trigger’ seizures. Feeding your dog a healthy diet is also a must.
- Allergies – Brush/comb your dog regularly along with frequent baths. Make sure his/her vaccination is up to date and provide them with tick/flea tablets.
In conclusion, give your dog lots of exercise and a healthy diet. Try to give him/her your maximum attention and make sure to buy or adopt from a verified breeder.
