Appearance of the Great Bernese
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| The Great Bernese is a large dog with a regal presence. They generally weigh between 32 and 52 kilos. At maturity, Great Berneses measure between 61 and 71 centimeters. They have robust, muscular builds that are hidden beneath their long, ample coats. The coat is generally straight, thick and rough, and comes in tricolored combinations of black, white, brown or rust. Some Great Berneses are beige with badger, gray, reddish-brown or tan markings. This breed also has a dense, woolly undercoat, which is usually a basic white or beige color. Their ears are medium-sized, soft and triangular with a rounded tip. Great Berneses have dark brown, almond-shaped eyes, and a strong, straight muzzle with a scissor bite. This breed also has a long, feathered tail and round, compact paws. |
Temperament of the Great Bernese
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| The temperament of this hybrid depends on the behavioral traits it inherits from both parent breeds, with some being more like Pyrenean Mountain Dogs and others more like Bernese Mountain Dogs. In general, Great Berneses are known for their calm, loyal disposition. They are gentle, affectionate and intelligent animals. This breed generally attaches itself to one person in the household, and will seek that person's attention and affection wherever possible. However, this breed gets along with other people, animals and children, and because of its large size, it needs to be supervised around very small or young companions. Great Berneses are also natural watchdogs. As a result, they can be territorial and vocal if they perceive a threat. However, they are not known for being aggressive. They can also be playful, but prefer to romp outside in the cool rather than indoors. Indoors, they like to lounge around the house with "their person" or other family members. |
Needs and activities of the Great Bernese
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| Great Berneses have plenty of energy and need daily exercise to stay healthy. They don't like to play indoors. This breed much prefers walking or hiking in cool conditions. In fact, the Great Bernese does better in colder climates because of its thick coat and undercoat. Depending on their personalities, they can even enjoy the occasional romp in the dog park. Beyond that, they love to stay indoors and watch family members or "guard" the house. Because of its size, the Great Bernese needs plenty of space, both indoors and out, and is best suited to larger homes in suburban or rural areas. |
Maintenance of the Great Bernese
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| The Great Bernese sheds all the time, with intense episodes at the change of season. Frequent brushing with a pin or smoother brush can control shedding to some extent, but it's important to remove the inevitable mats and tangles in this dog's long coat. Great Berneses need only an occasional bath, but should have their teeth brushed daily and their nails trimmed once or twice a month. Diligent dental care is particularly important for this breed, as it is prone to severe plaque build-up. Owners may consider using a dental rinse in their dog's water to prevent dental and gum infections. Beyond that, Great Berneses should have their ears checked regularly for wax build-up and debris to avoid infection. |
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