Bernese (pronounced BERnese, not BURNING) Mountain Dogs (aka "Berners") are the only one of the four breeds of Swiss mountain dogs to have such a long coat.
This breed is best suited for cooler temperatures, making Christmas his favorite holiday (especially when he gets lots of treats!). Originally bred to look after livestock and pull carts full of local goods, this breed now works on being a good family dog with his sweet demeanor and smarts.
A tri-colored dog (black with reddish-brown and white markings), he is great to curl up next to by the fireplace while drinking hot chocolate during cold winter nights. His favorite doggie sport would have to be weight pulling, at which he excels (you could say that he was born to do it!).
Size: 25 to 27.5 inches tall at the shoulders; 80 to 115 pounds
Place of Origin: Switzerland
Group: Working
Colors: black with tan and white markings
Grooming Needs: weekly brushing; bathe weekly to monthly; regular ear cleaning
Personality: alert, affectionate, gentle, easygoing and tolerant, excellent with children, protective, can be shy around strangers
Activity Level: moderate; try short walks instead of marathon hikes
Lifespan: 7 to 10 years
To read about the other dog breeds featured in this issue, pick up the October/November 2008 issue of Dogs for Kids!