Adopting a Bernese Mountain Dog: Your Complete Guide
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By
Calvin Whitaker
- Last updated:
Adopting a dog can be one of the most fulfilling experiences, and the Bernese Mountain Dog, with its loyal and gentle nature, is a breed loved by many. Whether you’re drawn to their imposing size, affectionate temperament, or simply want to give one of these lovable giants a home, there are a few essential factors to consider before you start the adoption process.
Table of Contents
Adoption Process
The process of adopting a Bernese Mountain Dog is similar to that of any other breed, but it often involves breed-specific rescue organizations as well as general animal shelters. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect during the adoption process:
1. Application: The first step is typically filling out an adoption application. Rescue organizations or shelters will want to learn about your lifestyle, home environment, and why you’re interested in adopting a Bernese Mountain Dog. This helps them determine if you’re a good fit for the breed and the individual dog. They may ask questions about your work schedule, your experience with large breeds, whether you have a fenced yard, and if you have other pets.
2. Home Visits: Some organizations conduct home visits to ensure that the dog will have a safe and suitable environment. They may check for hazards in your home or yard and assess your preparedness for the breed’s size and needs.
3. Meet-and-Greet: Once your application is approved, the next step is usually a meet-and-greet with the dog. This helps ensure that the dog is comfortable with you and that your family or other pets (if any) are compatible with the new addition.
4. Adoption Fees: There is typically an adoption fee associated with the process. This fee often covers vaccinations, spaying or neutering, microchipping, and other veterinary care the dog may have received while in rescue.
5. Finalizing the Adoption: If everything goes well, you’ll sign an adoption contract. This contract often includes clauses ensuring you agree to provide proper care, such as medical treatment, food, and shelter. Some organizations also require you to return the dog to them if you can no longer care for it.
Cost of Adoption
The cost to adopt a Bernese Mountain Dog varies depending on the organization and the dog’s background. Adoption fees can range from $150 to $500, with breed-specific rescues typically charging on the higher end of this spectrum due to the veterinary care, grooming, and other expenses incurred during the dog’s time in rescue.
While adoption fees may seem high, they are typically lower than the costs of purchasing a Bernese Mountain Dog from a breeder which can range from $1,500 to $4,000. Moreover, adoption fees often cover initial medical costs, such as vaccinations and spaying/neutering, which you would otherwise need to pay for separately when buying from a breeder.
Beyond the initial adoption fee, you should also consider ongoing costs. Bernese Mountain Dogs require regular veterinary check-ups, high-quality food, grooming, and potential training classes. On average, expect to spend between $1,000 and $2,500 annually for routine care and upkeep.
Temperament and Behavior
Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their calm, affectionate, and friendly nature. They are incredibly loyal and often bond deeply with their families. They tend to be good with children, making them a popular choice for families, though their large size means supervision is necessary, especially around small children.
While Bernese Mountain Dogs are generally well-mannered and not overly aggressive, they do have a protective instinct. They were originally bred as working dogs in the Swiss Alps, so they may be naturally inclined to herd or guard.
However, their friendly demeanor also means they often get along well with other pets. They are typically non-confrontational and can be quite tolerant of smaller animals. Early socialization is key to ensuring they are well-adjusted in various social situations.
Health Issues
Unfortunately, Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to several health problems. One of the most significant concerns is their predisposition to cancer, particularly histiocytic sarcoma. This breed has one of the highest incidences of cancer among all dog breeds.
Other common health issues include:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia: As large dogs, Berners are susceptible to joint issues.
- Bloat: This is a potentially fatal condition where the dog’s stomach fills with gas and twists.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): This is an eye condition that can lead to blindness.
- Heart disease: Dilated cardiomyopathy is a common heart condition in Berners.
If you are adopting an older Bernese Mountain Dog, it’s essential to be aware of these potential health issues and discuss them with the rescue or shelter. Rescues often provide as much medical history as possible, but some issues may only become apparent as the dog ages.
Size and Grooming Needs
Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, sturdy animals. Males typically weigh between 85 to 115 pounds, and females weigh between 70 to 95 pounds. Their size makes them a commanding presence, so they need ample space to move around comfortably. Small apartments may not be ideal for such a large dog.
In terms of grooming, Bernese Mountain Dogs have a thick, double coat that sheds year-round, with more intense shedding in the spring and fall. They require regular brushing—at least a few times a week—to prevent matting and tangles, especially around their ears and hindquarters. Regular grooming also helps reduce shedding and keeps their coat healthy.
Bathing should be done as needed, typically every couple of months, or when they get particularly dirty. Their nails should also be trimmed regularly, and their ears checked for signs of infection.
Lifespan and Ageing Concerns
One of the most heartbreaking aspects of owning a Bernese Mountain Dog is their relatively short lifespan. On average, Berners live between 7 and 10 years, although some may live longer with proper care and a bit of luck.
As they age, Berners are more prone to developing joint problems, such as arthritis, which can affect their mobility. Regular veterinary care, a healthy diet, and appropriate exercise can help manage some of the issues associated with aging.
Exercise and Activity Levels
Although Bernese Mountain Dogs are large and strong, they are not as high-energy as some other large breeds, such as Border Collies or German Shepherds. That said, they still need regular exercise to stay healthy and prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behavior.
Daily walks and some playtime in the yard are generally sufficient. However, Berners love to work and may enjoy activities such as cart-pulling, hiking, or even dog sports like agility. These activities not only provide physical exercise but also mental stimulation, which is important for their well-being.
Compatibility with Children & Other Animals
One of the many reasons Bernese Mountain Dogs are popular family pets is their adaptability to different environments. They are generally very good with children, often exhibiting a gentle and protective nature. However, because of their size, interactions with very young children should always be supervised to prevent accidental injuries.
Berners tend to get along well with other pets, particularly when they are raised together. Their calm demeanor makes them less likely to exhibit aggression toward other dogs or smaller animals. Proper socialization from a young age is important to ensure they remain friendly and well-adjusted.
Training Needs
Bernese Mountain Dogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. However, they can be a bit stubborn at times, so patience and consistency are key. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, work best with this breed.
Early socialization and obedience training are crucial for Berners. Given their large size, you want to ensure they are well-behaved in public settings and respond to basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.”
What Other People Are Saying About Bernese Mountain Dog Adoption
Many people who have adopted Bernese Mountain Dogs speak highly of their loyalty, friendliness, and calm temperament. Here are a few stories shared by adopters:
We adopted our Bernese, Bella, when she was 4 years old. She was a retired breeder from a rescue, and despite her age, she adapted wonderfully to our home. She’s been fantastic with our kids, and even though she was a bit timid at first, she now acts like she’s been with us forever.
Billy came to us through a rescue organization, and we couldn’t be happier. He’s such a gentle giant. Training him was easier than expected as he already developed good traits from his previous owner, and as a bonus he’s great with our cat and smaller dog which is a Shiba Inu. We had some challenges with his health, particularly hip issues, but the rescue was upfront about that, and we were prepared to manage it.
Final Thoughts on Adopting a Bernese Mountain Dog
Adopting a Bernese Mountain Dog is a rewarding experience, but it’s important to be prepared for the responsibilities that come with caring for such a large and potentially health-prone breed. Whether it’s their affectionate nature, striking appearance, or calm demeanor, Berners make wonderful companions for the right families.
Calvin Whitaker
Calvin is an avid dog lover and trainer with many years of experience in writing well researched articles on canine care. When he isn't writing for our website, he's making a tangible difference in the lives of dogs. You can often find him at local animal shelters, where he generously volunteers his time to provide comfort, companionship, and training. Through his direct involvement, Calvin channels his passion into action, advocating for the well-being of dogs and working tirelessly to ensure their happiness and security.
Calvin's journey as an author began as a personal exploration of his deep affection for dogs. Over time, this journey has blossomed into a shared experience that resonates with readers worldwide. Through his writing and volunteering, Calvin envisions a world where every dog is valued, every tail wags with joy, and every bark finds a loving home.
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