Once upon a time, in the breathtaking Swiss Alps, there existed a loyal, gentle giant. Known for its striking tricolor coat and a profound sense of loyalty, this fluffy creature stole many hearts and made itself indispensable both for farmers and families. They slept peacefully amidst the snowy peaks, protected by these glorious beings. Can you guess who we’re talking about? That’s right, they’re the distinguished Bernese Mountain Dogs.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are a well-loved breed for their distinct appearance and gentle personality, but have you ever found yourself wondering if these furry pals make good guard dogs?
Bred for drafting and droving in the Swiss mountains, their history shows they weren’t necessarily specialist guard dogs. However, their natural protective instinct, intelligence, and the sheer size have led them to successfully perform the role of a protector in many situations. So, what does this mean? We’re delving deep into the world of the Bernese Mountain Dogs to unveil their potential as guard dogs.
Cows, carts and…Guard duties? Let’s head back in time to appreciate the versatile role these mountainous dogs played. In the good old days, they were multi-purpose farm dogs famous for herding cattle and pulling carts to markets. Though they were not officially ‘guard’ dogs, they naturally protected their families and farms from intruders due to their keen observation skills and a deep sense of loyalty towards their caretakers.
However, guard duties require certain attributes. Professional guard dog breeds like the Rottweiler or Doberman have a naturally aggressive streak, which is generally missing in the laid-back Bernese. But before you write off their guard dog potential let’s talk about their undeniable gifts – a strong protective instinct and incredible loyalty.
A Bernese Mountain Dog is like a bodyguard who’s also your best friend. These dogs are renowned for the love they have towards their families. They’re loyal, sometimes even to a fault. This inherent trait means that they’re likely to leap into action if they feel a member of the family is under threat.
Bernese Mountain Dogs carry an intimidating presence. Their large size and deep bark can be effective deterrents against potential intruders. Even though violence is the last thing on their minds, their appearance often does all the work in warding off unwelcome guests.
Now, let’s talk intelligence, something these fluffy companions have in abundance. Training plays a crucial role in honing a guard dog, and intelligence is key to this process. Here, Bernese Mountain Dogs score big. They respond well to training, meaning with proper guidance, they can be competent guard dogs.
However, here’s an important point of consideration. It’s true that they can become protective in the face of perceived threat, but these dogs love everyone. Their indiscriminate affection towards people might cloud their judgment of who might be a threat and who isn’t. Also, their relaxed demeanor implies they’re likely to greet an intruder with a wagging tail rather than a menacing growl.
Remember that no matter the breed, a dog shouldn’t be expected to take on the full responsibility of guarding your home or your family. Sharing tasks with your canine pal and ensuring a safe and secure home environment can help your furry companions do their job better. Choose a Bernese Mountain Dog if you’re looking for a vigilant and loyal pet who’ll protect you only “when” it counts. But don’t be surprised if they end up charming everyone they meet!
To sum it up, can a Bernese Mountain Dog be a guard dog? Yes. Will they be the best guard dog choice? Probably not.
Size, loyalty, and intelligence certainly give them an edge. However, with their friendly disposition and a love-for-all nature, they’re better defined as ‘alert dogs’. In a world where love prevails over aggression, this certainly adds to their charm, making Bernese Mountain Dogs an invaluable addition to any loving family!
