Bernese Shepherd, or, as it is often called, Bernese Mountain Dog is a large shepherd breed that was bred in Switzerland, near the city of Bern. These are real "models" of the canine world, they are rightfully recognized as one of the most beautiful breeds in the world. In addition to luxurious exterior data, this breed also has the most peaceful character. They are very flexible, get along with any pets, will be the best nanny, friend and guardian for the child.
Strong and hardy Bernese Shepherd with amazing ease tolerates any physical exertion, vigilantly guards the house and plays with children. These are dog-workers, they cannot work without work. Locked in an apartment for the whole day, they begin to bite furniture out of boredom and spoil things. Extreme mobility and playfulness - this is their strength, but it will turn into a minus if the animal lives in the city.
At home
Switzerland gave the world this beautiful breed. These dogs have an aristocratic appearance, but at the same time have the strength and endurance of an ox. Long, dense coat is ideal for alpine heights. Local farmers use their pets not only to protect herds and homesteads. Dogs are happy to help transport small carts loaded with, for example, milk. So the Bernese shepherd "moonlighting" also as pack animals.
Breed characteristics
Bernese Shepherd is a tricolor beauty with long thick hair. She has a strong physique, but also very mobile. It is surprisingly proportionately folded, without flaws. The genetic background of this breed is very good, without numerous defects, as is the case with most decorative dogs. This is a true example of physical perfection.
She is brave and dexterous, absolutely fearless, affectionate and kind with all members of the family, calm with strangers. Even the
detention of a criminal who made his way into the house is carried out without fuss and barking. Without need, the Bernese shepherd will not bite him, but only render him harmless and wait for the police or the owners. Training a shepherd dog is always a grateful work, but in the case of this breed, the Swiss joke: "They are already born trained, they only need to be reminded of how the teams sound."
Shepherd character
Let us dwell a little more on physical parameters. They usually weigh 45 - 47 kg, that is, the dog is quite large. Females reach 63 - 66 cm at the withers, males 66 - 68 cm, so the differences in gender are not too obvious. If you already know the Bernese Shepherd, the description of the breed can be reduced to several terms: soft and good-natured, sensitive and cheerful, watchful guard, but never bark at trifles. All deviations from the characteristics are considered pathology. This also applies to the nature, for example, of atypically uncertain behavior, but physical defects are rejected to a greater extent. This may be a light bone, asymmetry of the incisors, a plain color or a white spot on the head.
A little more needs to be said about how the shepherd is trained. I must say that dogs are constantly striving for physical activity. This is a necessity for them, the same as water and food. Therefore, instruction in teams should take place during the game, after the first energy has been spilled out.
These dogs grow up late, therefore, studying with one and a half year old "teddy bear", remember that you have a puppy in front of you. Only by two years the dog reaches full maturity.
Raising a puppy
The Bernese Shepherd appeared in your house. Puppies require special attention and care, in fact, a child has appeared in your house who already has children, he will understand. He needs you constantly, because you replaced him with the mother with whom he was day and night. The dog does not tolerate too long separation, needs good nutrition. Up to 2 months you need to feed your pet 4 to 5 times a day. After 3 months, you can transfer to three meals a day and from eight months to an adult schedule, twice a day.
Dairy products should be included in the diet: cottage cheese, sour cream, but not milk. It is very good to give porridge cooked on beef broth. Meat (veal or beef) is also necessary for growth, add a raw egg once a week. As they grow, dairy products need to be removed, replacing meat and cereals. The volume of one serving for the puppy should equal the volume of his head. High-quality dry food should also be given to a puppy, it contains a balanced complex of vitamins and minerals. Take age-appropriate feed for large breeds. Kids need to breed it with warm water, and an adult dog can eat it dry. Do not forget about the obligatory availability of fresh water.
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Any dog needs his personal space. Bernese Shepherd is especially demanding. She does not tolerate confined spaces, so preference should only be given to a private country house, where the dog will have enough space for games and jogging. In addition, this breed does not tolerate loneliness. In the event of a long absence of owners, she is sad and bored, may refuse food and become ill. Caring for a dog comes down to daily contact with him, feeding, brushing his hair and playing outdoors. By the way, Sennenhund with great pleasure will swim, if you give him such an opportunity. Therefore, if there is a pond nearby, then be sure to take water procedures together.
How to instill rules of conduct
As already mentioned, this breed grows up late. How long have you patiently explained to the child what is possible and what is not? At least 4-5 years. Here you will fully see the results after 2 years. Like a small child, a young mountain dog can destroy an apartment if you leave it unattended. There are several rules that can help you avoid this.
Practical recommendations
To begin with, try not to leave him alone for a long time. It is good if the work and study schedule of family members does not coincide, and at home there is always one of the relatives. If he has to be alone for a while, try to set aside an isolated room and collect a lot of his toys there. Another option is a spacious cage with toys and goodies. A baby can stay in it for an hour until you finish your business, without harm to your personal belongings. But this measure is suitable for short absences. In addition, the puppy should be familiar with the cage, possibly sleeping there at night.
When you are at home, explain what is possible and what is not. If the puppy stole a slipper, you need to strictly say "mine", and replace the thing with his toy. You can wean the baby to climb where it should not. To do this, put a piece of goodies on the table, and each time the puppy reaches for it, you should say “fu” sharply and slap the newspaper on the table. Of course, any action must be repeated dozens of times until it is fixed until automatic.
Future owner
And remember that the time you spend together is necessary for joint games, caresses and promotions. Punishment, and especially physical violence, is a measure that separates you from each other. The dog will obediently obey the host friend, but not the tyrant. Only one and a half - two years - and your pet will become an adult. By this time, he will have mastered all the norms and requirements, will learn to make decisions independently, be responsible for himself and for your property while walking around the territory. Until then, he needs a patient, attentive, and most importantly, a loving educator. Bernese Shepherd is the smartest dog with which even a beginner can feel like a brilliant trainer.