Bernese Mountain Dogs

[ganesh]

Anybody got one?(not a breeder or show person)Would like to know what they're really like. Have seen them, though rarely,and want to know if they would make a good family pet.

[ganesh]

Thanks everyone. I'll keep them on my short-list, but they do sound a bit too big and short-lived for me. Lovely looking though, and I'll have a look at them at this Discover Dogs show,

[Lily_b]

We used to have a Bernese Mountain Dog at a yard I worked at. He was lovely, a bit clumsy, and affectionate. We found out that he did not like being left alone and had great loyalty to those who fed him regularly.

I have many stories I could tell you as he was such a character, but as I am sure you know each dog is different. Some drool, some don't. They could be called clumsy, or simply not realise how big and strong they are.

I would love to own one of these dogs myself, although I think there may be a few things to consider. Due to size and strength they may not be ideal with small children. Plenty of exercise or room to roam is a must. Be prepared for the big welcome scene with a bounding bundle of heavy fluff headed your way. Feeding even mild curry leftovers requires copious amounts of air freshener. Food left unattended for 5 seconds can magically disappear.

:-)

[ChrissyB]

I have an 8 month old male berner. I live in the U.S. and we bought him from a breeder in Germany. He has been an excellent, sweet boy most of the time. However is very stubborn and has shown some aggressive behaviour towards strangers as well as me and my husband. He is very large and clumsy. He does not drool very much. He gets along well with our other two dogs, however he tries to be the dominant one and once again has shown some aggressive behaviour towards the other dogs. He has required consistent training, and obedience school. However he is still very stubborn. He is also extremely intelligent. He figured out how to open our back screen door and let's himself as well as the other dogs in. Make sure you find a reputable breeder. Make sure you get a written health guarantee. Also, have his hips X-ray before the one year health guarantee expires. Also, they require alot of patience and they must be well socialized while still very young. They can become fearful and wimpy.

[ganesh]

Thanks Chrissy, I saw your question on your dog. Thanks for the advice, hope everthing goes ok. I had actually ruled them out because theyre a bit big and because of the previous comments, they are beautiful though. I thought I'd deleted this question
Quite a coincidence though as my name is actually Chrissy and my surname begins. with B. Wierd or what. Maybe an omen!!