13 Pros and Cons of Bernese Mountain Dog

Having been known as a breed in 1937, a Berner has sustained to grow in fame over the past many years or so. In reality, the American Kennel Club graded the Bernese Mountain Dog puppies as the 20th most prevalent breed in the USA in 2021. Even though the Bernese Mountain Dog was initially grown for farm work on Swiss farms, their loving personalities and good nature mean these dogs can easily fit into family life. This article will discuss the pros and cons of Bernese Mountain Dog. So, continue reading this guide….

Pros and cons of Bernese Mountain Dog

Pros 

1.      Outstanding family pets

Bernese Mountain Dogs are excellent family pets because of their patient as well as sweet personalities. They can flourish in a family and generally cope with everybody in the home, including other pets. 

2.      Moderate exercise requirements

Unlike other large dog breeds, Bernese mountain dogs don’t need much exercise. Although it’s suggested that a Bernese Mountain Dog needs 60 minutes of exercise daily, they’ll frequently be ok if they do less. These dogs will enjoy the opportunity to go on a journey with you.

3.      Low prey drive

When studying the breed, I found many accounts from Bernese mountain dog owners that requested these dogs hold a low prey drive once associated with other breeds. For example, Bernese Mountain Dogs lack a high prey drive; however, that doesn’t mean they won’t pursue a small animal if it gets their attention.

4.      Eager to entertain

Bernese Mountain Dogs are keen to gratify their owners, particularly an individual that they get most attached to in the home. These dogs are generally respectful and are just happy to be by your side. 

5.      Intelligent

Bernese Mountain Dogs are smart. These intelligent dogs are generally easy to train as they’re fast to catch new commands as well as signals. They’re very eager to please. 

6. Friendly

Super friendly with other people and outsiders! Never once has he been violent towards anybody.

7. Great with Other Animals

Mountain dog is also great with other dogs as well as animals. They always cope with and plays with other animals.

Cons

1)      Big dogs

Bernese Mountain Dogs can get a height of around 27.5 inches and weigh around 115 pounds. Some Berner owners said that these dogs could be energetic and difficult to handle as puppies; thus, life will only become more difficult into maturity if you’ve got a sick-trained Berner.

2)      Separation anxiety

Separation anxiety can distress any dog regardless of breed or mix. This condition generally manifests itself once an owner leaves home. The signs of this chronic dog condition contain barking, howling, grumbling, digging, and defecating. These dogs are more prone to separation anxiety.

3)      Lots of shedding

Berners shed – a lot! These dogs have a double coat – a lengthy outer fur and a wooly basecoat. If you research online, you will know several Berner owners are complaining about their shedding. You can assume lots of hair on your dresses, furniture, as well as floor.

4)      Expensive care charges

Berners can cost from $1,500 to $3,000 based on the breeder, ancestry, and place. In addition to the initial acquisition amount of your Berner, you’ll require to deliberate the month-to-month charges of these dogs. In reality, many Bernese Mountain Dog owners indicate paying above $200 per month on their companion once pet insurance, dog food, toys, food supplements, and additional care requirements are taken into account.

5)      Don’t like the heat.

These dogs are considered to be in fresher situations in the mountains compared to the desert’s dry heat. Thus, Bernese owners will have to be wary of permitting their Berner to work out in warmer climates to prevent overheating.

6)      Health problems

Bernese Mountain Dogs have a normal life expectancy of around 7 to 10 years. These pleasing dogs are predisposed to some health issues, unfortunately. Although the AKC defines Berners as usually healthy canines, they advise that Bernese breeders screen for health problems, such as hip & elbow dysplasia, blood illnesses, some cancers, as well as progressive retinal atrophy. Breeders add that Bernese Mountain Dog parents should spot the symptoms of bloat, which is an abrupt, serious stomach problem.

Should I Buy a Bernese mountain dog?

You should buy a Bernese mountain dog if you seek a faithful, friendly buddy with a big heart. It’s also an excellent choice if you need a large dog that likes colder weather, mainly snow. You shouldn’t buy a Berner if you need a small dog or one that doesn’t drool and shed more.

Here are some suggestions you should buy a Bernese mountain dog:

1. You love large furry friends.
2. You have the time for 30 minutes to an hour of physical deeds daily.
3. You live in cold weather.
4. You’re seeking an extremely trustworthy dog.

Here are some suggestions for a Bernese mountain dog that might not be suitable for you:

• Unnecessary shedding bothers you.
• You’re looking for an affordable breed.
• You live in a small space.
• You have very young children, for example, infants or toddlers.
• Drooling is off-putting.
• It would help if you had a dog that’s always friendly toward outsiders.

FAQs: Pros and Cons of Bernese Mountain Dog

Why should you buy a Bernese Mountain Dog?

Bernese mountain dog puppies are outstanding family dogs. Because of their calm spirit, they are brilliant mates for young kids.

What are the disadvantages of getting a Bernese Mountain Dog?

• They are large dogs. 
• Shed a lot
• Expensive care charges
• They do not like heat.
• They get separation anxiety.

Resources

https://www.reddit.com/r/bernesemountaindogs/comments/442rat/pros_and_cons_of_a_bernese_mountain_dog/ (new)

https://iheartdogs.com/knowledge-base/breed/bernese-mountain-dogs/what-would-you-say-are-the-pros-and-cons-of-a-bernese-mountain-dogs/ (latest guide)

https://hellobark.com/dogs/bernese-mountain-dog-pros-and-cons/ (new)