Bernese Mountain Dogs, sometimes called Berners, are one of the four types of Sennenhund breeds from Switzerland. The Sennenhunds include the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, the Appenzeller, and the Entelbucher. Berners were originally used as draft dogs and watchdogs. Males stand 25 to 27.5 inches at the shoulder, and females stand 23 to 26 inches at the shoulder. Their coats are tri-colored – a black background with rust and white markings in specific places. Berners are very stable and affectionate dogs who love to lean against their owners almost as much as they love a good hike on a brisk day.

To learn how to rescue a Bernese Mountain Dog in need of a home or for breeder referrals from The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America click here.

Potential Health Problems*

• Cataracts
• Cerebellar Degeneration
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Entropion
• Familial Renal Disease
• Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (Bloat)
• Hemangiosarcoma
• Hip Dysplasia
• Hypothyroidism
• Mast Cell Tumors
• Osteochondrosis
• Portosystemic Shunt
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy

*Just because a condition is associated with a specific breed does not mean that all dogs of this breed will be affected. Likewise, a dog may be impacted by diseases and conditions not listed under his or her breed.