History - Bernese Mountain Dogs or Berner Sennenhund as they are known in Switzerland, are a native breed of that country. It is suggested that the origins of the breed can go back about 800-1000AD. Local farmers kept different kinds of dog in varying sizes, according to the objective desired, as well as their financial standing (large dogs being expensive to keep). Swiss farmers developed dogs that would have been used to herd cattle as well as to protect the farms from thieves and brigands. Such dogs would also have been useful in discouraging wolves and bears which still existed in mainland Europe. During the latter part of the nineteenth century the main centre for breeding was in the Bernese Oberland, a mountainous area. The Swiss Kennel Club was formed in 1883, and a Bernese breed club was formed in 1907. Originally a draft dog, it became used for the transportation of milk etc by pulling carts. The first imports to Great Britain were made in 1936, but the advent of World War Two put a stop to breeding activities and the breed died out in Britain. It was in 1969 that the breed was re-introduced into this country.The first litter was born in 1970 and CCs were first awarded (at Crufts) in 1977. Bernese are now rapidly becoming very popular with the general public and are sought as companion animals. The very attractive tricolour markings of black, white and rich tan make the Bernese Mountain Dog one of the most strikingly handsome of dogs.

Description - Bernese are above large size and should be strong and sturdy with a steady, calm, laid-back nature. They should have a benign expression, yet should be alert and interested in their surroundings. They should not be hyperactive and highly strung in temperament. The breed should be biddable. The head is strong with a flat skull, slight furrow and well defined stop. The muzzle is straight and strong and the dark brown eyes are almond shaped. The ears are set high, of medium size and triangular in shape. They lie flat, but when alert are raised at the base and brought forward slightly. The neck is of medium length, strong and muscular. Long, sloping shoulders are strong with the well muscled upper arm forming a distinct angle and lying flat. The compact body has a broad chest with a deep brisket, strong loins and a firm straight back. The broad hindquarters are strong and well muscled, with well bent stifles and strong hocks. The compact feet are short and round. When moving or alert, the long, bushy tail is raised, but never carried curled or over the back. Their movement is a balanced stride which reaches out well in the front. Their soft and silky coat has a bright natural sheen and is long and slightly wavy. The colour is jet black with rich reddish-brown markings on the cheeks, above the eyes, on the chest and all legs. A symmetrical white blaze and chest markings are essential. White is also desired on the paws and tail tip.

Training - They are not the most intelligent of breeds, but they are eager to please. With determination and kindness they can be trained for obedience. They just love to please. Some of the breed are quite clever and they have a sense of humour. Training should start early and be consistent. Training sessions should be short and interesting and the puppy should be happy to do what is asked of him/her. No tricks are needed to train them just perseverance.