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Working breeds: Bernese Mountain Dog
Origin
This breed is the best known of the Swiss mountain dogs, or sennenhunds. This breed first appeared around 100 B.C. It was most likely that a cross between Swiss herding dogs and Roman guard dogs produced the foundation for this breed.
General description
Height: 23-27.5 inches
Weight: 87-90 pounds
Color: Dark black color with rust markings on the legs, sides
of the chest and mouth, over the eyes, under the tail;
white marks on the chest, muzzle, head, feet, and tail tip.
Grooming requirements
This breed requires a slicker brush, a metal comb, and a coat rake. This coat can be easily cared for if done thoroughly and often. Brushing should be done no less than twice a week. Their coat is mid-length and soft, so it can mat if not properly cared for, especially in the rear and the bib.
Health considerations
This breed is prone to arthritis, umbilical hernia, eye problems, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and Hepatocerebellar degeneration.
Breed characteristics and personality
A courageous, hardworking, strong, hardy dog that should not be sharp or shy.
Uses
The Bernese Mountain Dog has long been both a guard dog and a herding dog.
Web links
AKC Bernese page
BMD Club of America
Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Seattle
Cascade Echo Bernese Mountain Dogs
The NMBE Bernese Mountain Dog
Sunshine Bernese Mountain Dogs
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