The Bernese Mountain Dog

There is something about a large solid dog with his mass of silky fur, that just makes you want to hug it. If it is a Bernese Mountain Dog, he would let you do just that, and even ask for more. That is because this beautifully tri-colored working dog is a gentle giant who loves people and thrives on praise.

It hails from Switzerland - Bern to be exact. Therein comes his breed title: Bernese Mountain Dog. It is a versatile breed - a working dog, a herder of sheep and even a watchdog.

This dog is easily trained due to his calm disposition and eagerness to please. But he is also a delightful pet for families with children because he loves to play and bonds well with his human companions.

But there are other considerations if you want a Berner, as they call it, to become part of your family. For one, he is an enormous dog and thus would not be an ideal candidate for someone living in an apartment or condo. He needs room to stretch his legs and run. He is also a people dog, meaning he craves being with humans and would not be happy shut away in an outdoor kennel. He feels if he's not a part of the family, he should be!

If you like that puppy stage that seems to go so fast, a Berner is the dog for you. You will find he stays a puppy for some time both physically and mentally. You and your kids will never lack for a companion and a good play session with one of these goofy canines.

As far as training, positive reinforcement, a gentle glove,as it were, is the way to go. A Bernese is a sensitive dog, meaning he is open to coaxing and eager to please you. On the other hand, if you try to scold at or chastise him into obeying your commands you will find he can be a very uncooperative dog! Positive reinforcement is the key to getting cooperation from him. You don't want him getting his feelings hurt, as that would just serve to slow down his training further.

For whatever, these beautiful creatures are moving closer and closer to extinction. Part of this is due to inbreeding, but there are other factors such as size and weight, which can put a strain on his joints and lead to dysplasia and other hip and bone issues.

Considering these and other health problems common to the Berner, weigh the pros and cons before reaching the decision to buy this breed -- and whatever you do, be sure to buy your dog from a reputable breeder and not a puppy mill! Veterinarian costs pile up fast enough without buying an already sickly dog. It is also best to meet at least one of the parents. This enables you to learn what to expect in the way of temperament.

With such a loving, eager pet as the Bernese Mountain Dog, it is hard to go wrong. Just make sure first that he is the right breed for you and your family.

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6 Big Dog Breeds That Are Gentle Giants

There is a misconception that large dogs are fierce, but this isn't the case. According to dog professionals, most of the large dogs are total softies and all they want to do is snuggle. If you have always wanted a large dog, here are 6 large dog breeds that are simply gentle giants:

Bernese Mountain Dog

Also known as the German the Berner Sennenhund, these dogs is patient and mellow. They are known to be peaceful, easygoing and great family companions. While they are large and may look lazy, they aren't. They require moderate exercises and are excellent in dog sports such as rally, herding, drafting, tracking and agility. A mature dog can weigh and average of 70-120 lbs.

Irish Wolfhound

While they look ferocious, they aren't. Professionals refer to them as true giants with gentle temperaments. The dogs were originally bred in Ireland to hunt wolves, but they make excellent family companions. They get along with almost everyone including strangers, children and other dogs. If planning on keeping these dogs you should have plenty of space. This is because they are huge. They weigh 105-120 pounds and stand at nearly 3 feet tall.

Leonberger

They get their name from their origin-Leonberg, Germany. The dogs are known to be loyal, friendly and sweet. While the dogs are great to have, you should remember that they were originally bred as search and rescue dogs. Due to this, they tend to be diggers and chewers. Leonbergers are also sloppy drinkers and eaters. This makes them not a good choice if you like keeping your home pristine. If you are ready to overlook these "flaws", the dogs are great family companions.

Newfoundland

These fluffy giants are affectionate and great family companions. They stand 26-28 inches and can weigh up to 150 pounds. While they are good with all family members, they have been shown to greatly love children. While they can exercise in the field, they are happiest when in the water or when snuggling on the couch with family members.

Bullmastiff

They are characterized by a solid build and short muzzle. The dogs' bloodlines are drawn from the extinct Old English bulldog and English Mastiff. They weigh 100-130 lbs and like snuggling with family members. Since they were originally bred to guard estates they are still good guard dogs thus can guard your home and children. They easily adapt to new environment thus can comfortably live almost anywhere.

Great Dane

They are one of the tallest dog breeds in existence. The world record holder for the tallest dog was a Great Dane named Zeus. Zeus died aged 5 years and measured 111.8 cm from paw to shoulder. Due to the dogs' large size, they can have behavior problems when improperly trained and socialized; therefore, if planning of having the dog as your pet, have him properly trained.

Conclusion

These are some of the largest dog breeds that are gentle giants. For you to get a good dog ensure that you get it from a reputable shelter.

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