After arriving from Switzerland, the Bernese Mountain Dog has now exchanged the role of the sheepdog for family pet. They are suitable for families with children aged 10 years and over. They are an energetic breed with food temperaments but which are probably too large for families with toddlers or very young children.

WELFARE: An untrained Bernese, despite its gentle character, can be a problem if only due to its large size. Formal training is strongly recommended by long-term owners and breeders. They can be destructive due to their size but will always try and be careful.

BEHAVIOUR: The Bernese Mountain Dog is gentle and calm, so much so that while they are considered a good watchdog, they are unlikely to attack an intruder. Puppies and young dogs can be quite noisy and mischievous.
Bernese Mountain dogs are not a breed suitable for a solitary life in the backyard because without personal attention it's likely they'd become miserable and shy, and a big problem dog.

APPEARANCE: It bears an unmistakable resemblance to the St. Bernard. In size and general outline the Bernese Mountain dog is a lot like the Golden retriever. It is a large dog but it's not giant. They are slow to mature and while it may reach it's full height by around 12 months of age, it could take up to four years to fill out.
Colouring: They are black with smaller tan markings on the fore-face and legs, a white blaze on the head, and a white'shirt front.' Mature dogs are 64-70 cm tall and bitches 58-66 cm. Their weight is 40-45 kg for males and 30-35 kg for bitches. The coat is long, smooth and slightly wavy.
Coat: The coat is close, fairly soft, long, smooth and slightly wavy.
Muzzle: Their muzzle is long and dark. They have a strong jaw. 
Legs: Their legs are strong and sturdy and can withstand rough terrain. They are muscular yet graceful. They are quite large.
Eyes: Their eyes are large and dark. They have good vision.
Ears: Their ears are black and floppy, they usually blend in with the rest of the fur.

MAINTENANCE: The heavy coat needs a 30-45 minute brush every two to three weeks. At the same time the dog's ears should be checked for moisture or dirty wax.