There’s a reason the Swiss choose Bernese Mountain Dogs to pull sleds, herd cattle, and even serve as farmyard watch dogs. These brilliant beasts not only rely on their brawn to get the job done, but also on their brains. They are quick on their four feet and quick in the mind, as well. But, just how easy is it to train a Bernese Mountain dog? Let’s unravel this ball of fluff to discover more.
Imagine having a friend who is strong enough to pull a cart yet gentle enough to play with a toddler. A partner who is eager to please, and smart enough to learn new tricks and commands quickly with handsome coat that everyone admires. You are probably imagining a Bernese Mountain Dog. These hefty, curly-tailed canines are known for their stunning tri-colored coats, loving nature, and intelligence level that can give a well-meaning toddler a run for his cookies!
Bernese Mountain Dogs, affectionately known as Berners, originated in Switzerland. They get their names from the Canton of Berne where they were originally developed as general-purpose farm dogs. Their task list was almost endless, covering everything from herding cattle to protecting the home.
Berners are large dogs, averaging 70 to 115 pounds. But beneath their imposing size, these dogs have big hearts filled with an unconditional love for their humans. They are known to be? family dogs and get along well with children and other pets. But is it all just Swiss chocolates and Alpine flowers with a Berner? Or are there challenges to owning this breed, specifically when it comes to training?
When trained correctly and consistently, Berners can be an absolute delight. They are smart enough to grasp commands quickly and are willing learners who generally want to please their humans. Their intelligence is often a surprise to many and they can master basic obedience commands easily. This makes them ideal for first-time dog owners who might feel overwhelmed by the potential of training a dog.
However, Berners aren’t without their quirks. Their eagerness to please can sometimes result in a bit of a clingy demeanor. They thrive on human interaction and love to be involved in whatever their families are doing. This means they can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for too long. This can be remedied by crate training or providing plenty of interactive toys and puzzles to keep their intelligent minds occupied and working when you are not around.
Another note of consideration is that Berners can be stubborn. Now, stubborn doesn’t necessarily mean they are difficult to train, but it might require a bit more patience than with other breeds. Remember, they were originally bred for a variety of tasks and can have a mind of their own at times.
To get the best out of a Berner’s training, early socialization and puppy training classes are highly recommended. Berners are sensitive dogs and respond well to positive reinforcement methods. This means lots of praises, treats, and petting whenever they get something right. Harsh corrections could make them nervous or shy, which will only make training harder.
In terms of physical activity, Berners need regular exercise to keep them fit and happy. Their history of farm work means they are accustomed to regular, moderate exercise. This could be as simple as a walk around the block or moderate play in the yard. Without enough activity, these intelligent darlings could become bored and resort to destructive behaviors.
In terms of health, Berners are generally healthy but, like all breeds, they’re prone to certain conditions. Hip and elbow dysplasia, certain cancers and heart conditions are a few to mention. Regular check-ups and keeping an eye on their health is always recommended.
In conclusion, the Bernese Mountain Dog may be easy to train, but they also require a lot of love, attention, and patience. If you’re willing to put in a bit more effort and time, you’ll be rewarded with an intelligent, affectionate, and a well-socialized dog that will be a great addition to your family. After all, there’s a reason why the Swiss relied on these gentle giants for centuries, and you can too.
