By Alison Wilcox
If you are considering a large and loyal family pet and watchdog, you may want to think about checking out the Bernese Mountain Dog Breeders Virginia kennels. These dogs are one of four that come under the general heading of Swiss Mountain Dog. The name comes from the Berne Canton in the Swiss Alps. The Bernese is the only one of the four that has a coat that is long and silky.
The ancestors of this breed had been used in farms in the mountains and valleys of the Alps. They were large enough to serve as draft animals for pulling carts and herding animals. They also were excellent watchdogs in and around the farms. They love their owners and need people. The canines have a calm temperament and are confident animals. Their intelligence makes them easy to train.
By 1890, this was a breed that was headed for extinction. However, Swiss Franz Schertenleib dedicated his efforts to locating examples of the best stock for breeding. His work essentially rescued the breed. The dogs were brought into the United States by 1926, which allowed their popularity to continue to grow, along with their numbers.
Officially recognized colors for this animal are either in two tones or three tones. The standard color markings are black, rust and white or black, tan and white. The alternate markings are two-toned. Black and rust, black and white, or rust and white are the options that are available. In each case the fur is long and thick.
The dog typically stands from 23.5 to 27 inches at the shoulder. His whole bearing is best described as aristocratic. Owners need to realize that he will require at least a moderate level of exercise. Probably daily activities with the owner will be needed, especially if the home is small or the owners are apartment dwellers.
In 1937, there was enough interest in the breed for it to be recognized by the American Kennel Club. It is classified as a Working Class animal. It competes in various parts of the competitions at AKC shows, including conformation. For the owner who plans on showing the dog, there should be understanding of the exact standards on which the animal will be judged.
The Berners as they are affectionately known are hardy, as would be expected due to the country of origin. They have a double coat and have a tendency to shed. This means that owners should be prepared to do daily grooming and brushing of the pet to avoid matting and skin problems. Because of the heavy coat, living in hot and humid climates may not be a good location for the dog. He will thrive in cold climates.
Once you have settled on this breed as the one for your family, choosing the right Bernese Mountain Dog breeders Virginia kennels is as important as picking the breed. These large dogs are not long-lived, and they do have a prevalence of hip dysplasia. Your breeder can discuss the genetics of the particular dog that you are considering. There are rescue organizations for this breed, which can also provide good information.
The ancestors of this breed had been used in farms in the mountains and valleys of the Alps. They were large enough to serve as draft animals for pulling carts and herding animals. They also were excellent watchdogs in and around the farms. They love their owners and need people. The canines have a calm temperament and are confident animals. Their intelligence makes them easy to train.
By 1890, this was a breed that was headed for extinction. However, Swiss Franz Schertenleib dedicated his efforts to locating examples of the best stock for breeding. His work essentially rescued the breed. The dogs were brought into the United States by 1926, which allowed their popularity to continue to grow, along with their numbers.
Officially recognized colors for this animal are either in two tones or three tones. The standard color markings are black, rust and white or black, tan and white. The alternate markings are two-toned. Black and rust, black and white, or rust and white are the options that are available. In each case the fur is long and thick.
The dog typically stands from 23.5 to 27 inches at the shoulder. His whole bearing is best described as aristocratic. Owners need to realize that he will require at least a moderate level of exercise. Probably daily activities with the owner will be needed, especially if the home is small or the owners are apartment dwellers.
In 1937, there was enough interest in the breed for it to be recognized by the American Kennel Club. It is classified as a Working Class animal. It competes in various parts of the competitions at AKC shows, including conformation. For the owner who plans on showing the dog, there should be understanding of the exact standards on which the animal will be judged.
The Berners as they are affectionately known are hardy, as would be expected due to the country of origin. They have a double coat and have a tendency to shed. This means that owners should be prepared to do daily grooming and brushing of the pet to avoid matting and skin problems. Because of the heavy coat, living in hot and humid climates may not be a good location for the dog. He will thrive in cold climates.
Once you have settled on this breed as the one for your family, choosing the right Bernese Mountain Dog breeders Virginia kennels is as important as picking the breed. These large dogs are not long-lived, and they do have a prevalence of hip dysplasia. Your breeder can discuss the genetics of the particular dog that you are considering. There are rescue organizations for this breed, which can also provide good information.
About the Author:
Get connected with the Bernese Mountain dog breeders Virginia locals rely on by viewing our website at www.hayfieldsgrand.com today. To access images of our puppies and learn more about our puppy raising philosophy, check the links at http://www.hayfieldsgrand.com now.