Did you know that the beautiful and much-loved Bernese Mountain dogs were originally bred in the Swiss Alps? These magnificent animals were employed for numerous demanding tasks such as pulling carts and acting as farm dogs in tough alpine conditions. This is where they built their muscular bodies, hard to miss strength, and remarkable endurance, which made them ideal four-legged powerhouses. Given such robust physiology, you may be wondering whether they need special dog food to maintain their vigor or if regular chow is enough to keep them healthily thriving. To answer this, let’s delve into the world of the Bernese Mountain dogs and their specific dietary needs.
Just like we humans have varied dietary needs depending on our age, weight, lifestyle, and overall health, dogs also require individualized diets to ensure their optimal health. The Bernese Mountain dogs are no different. In fact, considering their size, temperament, and genetic predisposition to certain health issues, these dogs do fall into the category of requiring specific types of food.
These dogs boast a heavy body; mature males weigh between 80 to 115 pounds while females typically weigh between 70 to 95 pounds. They also have a lush and thick double coat that needs proper nutrients to maintain. Hence, their dietary needs are distinctive.
So, what exactly should a Bernese Mountain dog’s diet look like? Well, according to many veterinarians and canine nutritionists, this breed benefits from a balanced diet rich in protein, fats, and complex carbohydrates.
Let’s dig into these dietary components:
Protein is the first building block of a healthy diet for these dogs. It helps maintain and repair tissues, maintain a healthy immune system, and, crucially, promote growth and development in puppies. Large dog breeds, like the Bernese Mountain dog, need diets that contain at least 22% to 24% protein. Dogs with more active lifestyles may require even more. Sources of protein in their diet could be chicken, beef, turkey, or fish.
Healthy fat is the second critical ingredient. Bernese mountain dogs thrive on a diet with a minimum of 5% of fats. Fat is an efficient energy source and aids in the absorption of important vitamins. It also helps to keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy. The key word here, however, is “healthy” fats. These include fats like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, found in fish oil, flaxseed, and certain vegetables and seeds.
Next is the complex carbohydrates. Just like us humans, dogs need carbohydrates for energy. High-quality carbohydrates provide the energy your pup needs for their daily activities, while also aiding digestion. Brown rice and sweet potatoes are excellent sources of complex carbohydrates for dogs. A word of caution though – avoid feeding your Bernese Mountain dog simple carbohydrates like corn or soy, as these can lead to obesity and other health issues.
Various fruits, vegetables, and probiotics can also prove beneficial for their digestive system and overall well-being. For example, blueberries are loaded with antioxidants and fiber, and bananas contain important minerals like potassium and vitamins C and B6. Meanwhile, probiotics help improve your dog’s gut health.
On top of these core dietary elements, because of the genetic predisposition of Bernese Mountain dogs to certain health issues like hip dysplasia, a diet rich in glucosamine and chondroitin can be of great importance in supporting and maintaining healthy joints.
In terms of the food type, Bernese Mountain dogs can definitely consume both dry and wet food, although dry food tends to better support dental hygiene. However, a mixed diet of these two types of food can be most beneficial in providing a variety of textures and flavors, enhancing your furry friend’s eating experience.
Just remember, no identical templates apply to every Bernese Mountain dog. Each dog will have different needs depending on its size, age, and health condition. Therefore, a diet should always be prepared in consultation with a vet.
In conclusion, Bernese Mountain dogs don’t necessarily need “special” dog food, but they do benefit from a well-balanced, tailored diet that addresses their unique needs. Proper nutrition is an instrumental part of keeping your Bernese Mountain dog healthy, lively, and ready to climb even the highest Swiss Alp, metaphorically of course!
