Aristocratic in appearance, ancient in lineage, the Bernese Mountain Dog has long been at home on the farms in the middle land of Switzerland. One of the four varieties of Swiss Mountain Dogs, the Bernese--known in his native land as the Berner Sennenhund--shares similar distinctive coloring with the other varieties, but is the only one of the four to have a long, silky coat. The other three are the Appenzeller Sennenhund, the Entlebucher Sennenhund, and the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. These dogs worked as drovers and draft dogs as well as watch dogs in the farmyards mainly in the Canton of Berne.
The ancestors of these dogs were brought into Switzerland over two thousand years ago by the invading Roman soldiers. But until a few years before World War I, they had been almost forgotten by all save the oldest inhabitants of Berne. They were still found in the area of Duerrbach, but the breed had degenerated to such an extent as to be practically unrecognizable. When in 1982 the Swiss fancier Franz Schertenleib attempted to find good specimens to be used as breeding stock, his search was a long one. However, he was successful, and several other fanciers became interested as well. The rehabilitation was started, and succeeded under the knowledgeable leadership of the great geologist, canine researcher and judge, Professor Albert Heim. In 1907, a specialty club was formed and the breed found favor with many Swiss, who developed them as house pets and companions, although their old role on farms still continued.
A handsome, long haired, sturdily built dog, the Bernese is jet black in color, with rich russet markings on his legs, cheeks, spots over each eye, and on either side of the snowy white chest markings. A white blaze adorns its muzzle and forehead, and it is highly desirable that the dogs have white feet, white tail tip and that the white chest marking forms a Swiss cross. The coat is thick and moderately long with a slight wave. His broad and firm back, deep chest, well-sprung ribs and strong loins show that he is well suited to hard work.
The Bernese is an extremely hardy dog, thriving in cold weather. He needs only a small amount of daily grooming to look well kept. For his emotional development and well being he needs human companionship, and he is a willing and quick learner. He is self-confident and exceptionally faithful.
First brought to the United States in 1926, the breed acquired AKC recognition in 1937.