Big Baby (Bernese Mountain Dog)

Member Name: cjholgreaves

Product:	Bernese Mountain Dog
Date:	26/01/02 (303 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Loyal companion

Disadvantages: Big

I have just got a Bernese Mountain dog having wanted one since I was little and I'm thrilled. They originate from the Berner Oberland in Switzerland and are magnificent. They are very large dogs, similar in shape and size to St. Bernard's. However, Bernese have black, white and tan markings.

I had to wait about 3 months on a waiting list as there are not many breeders in the UK. I have a male, but if you want a female you are likely to have to wait longer.

They are very large puppies and when I got him he was already the size of a cocker spaniel, he has grown quickly since then and will continue to grow until he is about one and a half. When I first had him he seemed quite dazed and clumsy-but don't worry this will soon wear off. Now he is always the first to the door whenever anyone comes home.

One of the most important things to note about this dog is that he can't be exercised much as a puppy (until he is about 6 months) because his legs grow so quickly, and he would get swollen joints and a greater risk of arthritis when older.

He requires quite a lot of space and has taken over a sofa as his own. He also needs a lot of attention. Now he is 6 months he always wants to go for a walk first thing in the morning and he gets frantic until he has been out. In the evening he also gets quite lively and will chase my other dogs around or thump his paw on your lap until he gets the required attention.
When he knows it is feeding time he will bark very loudly until it is given to him; if you are cooking he will sprawl himself across the kitchen floor taking up as much space as possible- and he is big. My dog is not allowed upstairs and I would advise the same if you plan to get one.

His coat does require regular brushing, but he quite enjoys this and will happily roll onto his back for you.

He is suprisingly gentle with children and also with my two cats who he teases from time to time but never hur
ts.

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