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The Bernese Mountain Dog was developed as a companion dog and does best when integrated into a family's home and lifestyle.

These dogs are often very dependent on their owners and some can be come difficult to manage if left unattended for long hours everyday. Puppies require several months of extensive attention to housebreak and train. An owner can count on about six to twelve months of time to be devoted to house breaking and teaching a puppy basic dog manners.

BMD pups can be very destructive if left to their own devices. Safe toys should be provided to accommodate the puppy's desire to chew during the teething stage. The use of a good sized dog crate will prevent destructive habits from developing and potentially can save a dog's life. Puppies should not be left unattended for long hours. The early development of a good working relationship and trust between dog and owner will lead to a rewarding life together.

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large dog. The breed is not well suited to environments or owners where exercise is not possible or convenient. These dogs were developed as working farm dogs, not as lap dogs. Even so, most BMDs will be delighted to make a visit to their owner's lap when invited. Exercise requirements for the breed are somewhat variable, depending on the BMD's temperament and energy level. A minimum of 30 minutes of exercise per day will keep most BMDs in good physical condition. Some dogs will require three times that amount of exercise to be satisfied and kept in shape. BMDs need exercise through out their lifetimes. Puppies should never be forced to exercise for long periods nor should they be kept from walking or running under safe, supervised conditions. Puppies should NEVER he allowed to roughhouse with older dogs, as permanent injury to growing bones, joints, muscles and ligaments may occur.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are generally good-natured. Some BMDs can be reserved and even fearful of strangers. Some BMDs can be dog aggressive which makes them unsuitable for multiple dog households. The BMD is one of the most enjoyable of the large breeds. The devoted loyalty, sense of humor, easygoing, quiet natured, strong will to serve and affectionate qualities make the breed a good family pet. BMDs are typically excellent with children, as they tend to recognize a child and immediately quiet all actions. While some BMDs may be aloof with strangers, this should not be confused with shyness. When company visits your home, many BMDs will watch the situation for a little while before coming to accept a visitor with a quiet approach followed by leaning into the visitor's leg. This is how Bernese became know as 'leaners', which is especially true of the males. A must for all Bernese is socialization and training. Attending puppy socialization classes, and at a minimum beginning obedience classes at a local kennel club or private dog training facility are highly recommended to maximize a BMD's chances of becoming a canine good citizen.

Many Bernese do very well in advanced obedience courses, conformation, drafting, tracking, agility, etc. Owners should look forward to a lifetime of training and working with their BMD. Most Bernese do best when trained with enthusiasm and a kind but firm hand. Most are very willing to please but some can be quite stubborn. Some Bernese are very smart and want to do things their own way which provides their owners with training challenges.

Hard hands and harsh training methods can easily break the spirit of many BMDs.

The Bernese Mountain Dog carries a heavy coat requiring considerable grooming. When Bernese cast off their coats, daily brushing may be required to keep hair to a minimum in a home environment. Removal of hair coat as it is being shed is also necessary for the dog to maintain healthy skin condition. Count on grooming and vacuuming often (daily) to keep floors, furniture and the children free of BMD fur.

Please take the time to familiarize yourself with BMD health issues, discussed later.