Puppy Information - Help in Finding the Right Puppy
If you are looking to add a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy to your life, please read the information contained below. Hopefully, it will help you to find a happy, healthy puppy from a well-intentioned and knowledgeable breeder. It will also help you to spot and avoid breeders who are less than ethical and are only interested in profiting from the breed. Buying from the right kind of breeder will save both you and your dog much heartache in the long run, although you may need to wait a little longer to find a pup. The right pup is worth the wait!
The Club can provide a list of reputable breeders, this can be obtained by emailing the Club Secretary, Fiona Stafford Byrne at [email protected]. It is not the job of the club to vet either the breeders or people looking for puppies. It is up to each and every potential puppy owner to make sure they are happy with the way the breeder operates and rears their dogs and pups before purchasing. Any legitimate breeder will ask you many questions to be sure that you can provide all the care and attention that is vital to a puppy of this sensitive breed. In some cases, you may not be able to give a Bernese all it needs and another breed or species may be a better option for you.
If you are seeking advice and considering whether to buy a Bernese you may hear different opinions and we would suggest that you take as much advice and talk to as many people as possible in order to evaluate each opinion and form your own. In common with all breeds Bernese do have their problems and whilst you should enquire about them these must be kept in perspective. Above all meet some Bernese and their owners, if at all possible in a domestic environment or if not, at least at a show or other event where you can ‘get a feel’ for the breed. The club may be able to put you in touch with someone reasonably close who is willing to share their experience of Bernese with you and possibly arrange for you to visit their dogs.
If you decide that a Bernese is not the breed for you and your family, it is much better for you and the dog that you research sufficiently, and decide prior to obtaining your puppy than to find out the hard way afterwards. Your Bernese will be a loyal and giving friend to you so make sure that you understand their needs and can give them what they require in return.
Breed Considerations for the Prospective Owner
The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of a group of four native Swiss working breeds, all of which have the same striking black, white and tan markings. The Bernese is the second largest of the group, and the only one with a long coat....it is also the only one bred in the British Isles. An adult male will measure between 64-70cms, a bitch slightly less. If thinking of buying a Bernese then please think very carefully and take as much good advice as possible. The following are suggestions of some points to consider BEFORE you search for your puppy and much of it would equally apply to many other breeds. There is much more thought and responsibility involved in owning a large and powerful dog than just having the money to pay the food and vet's bills. Growing dogs need to have a place and time to rest away from the attentions of toddlers and children and many breeders are very reluctant to sell puppies to households with small children.
Further Knowledge
If you feel that you and your family can cope with and really want a Bernese then your next task is to ascertain more about them and decide that they are definitely the breed for you. There are several options open to you. There are breed books, these include The Bernese Mountain Dog by Diana Cochrane and The Complete Bernese Mountain Dog by Jude Simonds and The Bernese Mountain Dog Today by Dr. Malcolm Willis. There are other publications available also. There is also a wealth of knowledge on the internet as most Bernese clubs have their own websites. Try and see some Bernese, the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Irelannd organise shows and events throughout the year, details of these can be obtained from the Club Secretary and you will see updates on this website throughout the year. Bernese owners are more than happy to talk about their dogs and are a mine of information on the breed, do not be afraid to mingle and ask questions. You may receive more than one answer to the same question but at least you will have some impressions from which to form your own opinions. More ideally try to see Bernese in a home environment.
Admiring them at a show is different to imagining them fitting into your kitchen or living room. With the help of the Club you may locate a willing owner in your area and ask if you can visit, many Bernese owners would be pleased to ‘show off’ their dogs and answer any questions you have. If ‘active’ in the breed this owner could then be a valuable source of puppy contacts for you if you decide to purchase. If you have definitely decided to become a Bernese owner you could join our Club before finding your dog. This way you will receive regular information of events and breed issues. The club runs annual events where many members, who do not normally attend dog shows, come to meet other owners. Here they can discuss little problems, compare progress with others or maybe purchase some Bernese related items and memorabilia from our club stall. The club aims to be friendly and approachable to all its members, not just ‘show people’. The committee are always open to any constructive ideas from members.
HEALTH ISSUES
The following are health issues of relevance to Bernese, although most apply to many other breeds, but it should be remembered that the majority of Bernese lead normal healthy lives and do not encounter any significant problems. None of the following should be taken out of proportion and if you are especially worried over any particular aspect then please take further advice.
Hip Dysplasia (usually simply referred to as “HD”)
This is a condition which is widespread in virtually all breeds of dog. You should therefore ask breeders about the hip scores of the puppy's parents and even their grandparents and other relatives. It is now usual to have Bernese elbow scored at the same time as the hips are done. You should not buy puppies from parents who have not been ‘hip scored‘ and ‘elbow scored’.
Osteochondrosis (referred to as “Osteo” or “OCD”)
This term has come to cover a range of related conditions affecting one or more of the joints in many breeds of dog, in Bernese it particularly effects elbows of dogs typically between 6-10 months of age. Sometimes a puppy may not have serious lameness but merely an occasional limp on a front leg. This frequently disappears of its own accord without further problems sometimes by a regime of restricted free exercise. (This is not to say that foreleg lameness in puppies is necessarily Osteochondrosis as growing dogs can obviously sustain normal sprains and strains). In view of the accepted hereditary influence of OCD and the existence of elbow problems, it is advisable to enquire about the scores a dog or bitch have been given.
Hypomyelinogenesis (known as "Trembler")
This is a condition exclusive to Bernese although there are very similar conditions in other breeds. The condition has been shown to be caused by a straight forward recessive gene and its likelihood of inheritance could therefore be predicted if all carriers of the gene were known. This condition is now very rare in Bernese having being bred out by careful, selective breeding programmes.
Cancer
You may be told that a high percentage (40%) of Bernese die of cancer and this is documented as true but only in the context of reported breed deaths. (The vast majority of deaths are not reported). The relative position as compared to other breeds is not so clear because all breeds encounter cancer. Whilst the Bernese fraternity have ongoing cause of death and cancer surveys, until other breeds have similar investigations our breed cannot be claimed to be any better or worse than others.
Early Deaths (Longevity)
You may also be told that Bernese are not long lived and whilst at times this does seem to be true there are many Bernese who do live longer than the average age of 7 years which again is the figure from the breed reported death survey.
Elongated Soft Palate
The soft palate in the dog is normally a short flap of mucous membrane covered muscles which lies between the cavity of the mouth and the pharynx. Excessive panting caused by stress or hot weather can cause an elongated soft palate to restrict the airway, therefore causing severe breathing difficulties or even asphyxia. Surgery to correct the defect is successful, but Bernese having this defect should not be bred from, as the condition is recognised as inherited.
Bloat
Another potentially fatal condition which can occur in all larger breeds is bloat and some owners, having encountered this, prefer to feed small meals to reduce the risk.
Eye Problems
Bernese are not prone to serious canine eye problems found most commonly in the gundog breeds, and generally have sound constitutions. Entropion and Extropia, conditions of the eyelid turning in or out and malformed in many breeds, can occur but good breeding practice in the past has minimised their presence and hopefully will continue to do so.
Some Other Health Points
As a large and mainly black dog, Bernese can be prone to heat stroke if allowed to spend too much time in strong sunshine particularly if allowed to play too much. This can also make them more prone than most to the potentially fatal effects of being left in a car, even on mild but sunny day. As an owner it is important to be aware of the early symptoms and treatment of this quickly fatal condition.
Thoughts - Can You Cope?
Before buying a Bernese puppy make sure that you have the ability, time, space, resources and most importantly willingness to care for them adequately. This is not a breed which takes kindly to being shut up alone for long periods away from their family, particularly whilst young. They are a loving and giving friend but if neglected can grow into a boisterous problem and this can be difficult to retrain. Generally Bernese are willing to please and therefore relatively easy to train to an acceptable level of behaviour and this should be done whilst young. There is nothing more frustrating to a Bernese lover than a dog presented with a ‘temperament problem’ which merely lacks some basic domestic behaviour training which many experienced owners perform in an acceptable fashion as part of daily life. Are you prepared to ensure that they learn such acceptable behaviour from you, either alone or with the help of a local training class?
Can You Afford to Feed a Large Dog?
Once mature Bernese do not eat as much as most people seem to think but whilst growing can consume large amounts of a quality diet for a year or more. Make sure that you have the financial resources to cope with any veterinary bills you might incur as well as routine inoculations etc. Be happy that your garden and house can stand the impact of a large dog. You do not have to have a massive plot but dogs should not be encouraged or allowed to foul in parks, on pavements or similar public places so your garden may have to bear the brunt of the “consequences”. If they do foul an improper place you should at all times be prepared to clean up after your own dog.
Whilst “teething” some puppies can go through a destructive phase if not encouraged to play with their own chewing toys and, when left unsupervised for just a short time, even a youngster can do a lot of damage to your favourite furniture. Have you the time (and inclination) to take them for daily walks?
Are you satisfied that ALL your family are happy with the prospect of a large dog entering their home? If a member of a family does not want this addition then problems can ensue. Small children can also be a problem either aggravating the dog or opening doors, gates etc.
Finding a Puppy
Having done all you can to educate yourself and decided that a Bernese is for you, you will need to set about locating a puppy. At times there are few litters to find and it can be difficult, especially for the beginner, to locate a puppy. This is where the contacts you may have already made through the above information gathering could come in useful.
Our Club events and general shows are good sources of news regarding who has litters at the moment. Breed club secretaries often hear of matings and whelpings and your local contact who is active in the breed will probably prove to be of most use. Even if not breeding themselves, they will be able to suggest the most likely sources of puppies for you. Whilst physical appearance and characteristics are important, along with appropriate consideration to the issues mentioned previously, your dog has to be part of your family and the prime concern should always be TEMPERAMENT. The stud dog's influence should not be forgotten, you may be able to see him and talk to his owners at a show or event. You should be able to see the bitch with her puppies. If you are not happy with any answers then do not commit yourself until you have taken further advice. It is better, for you and the dog to wait for the right puppy than rush in and make a mistake. Please feel free to contact the Club if you have any doubts, we don’t know everything, but we will know someone who can help, and our advice costs nothing.
Information and Problems
If you encounter a problem with your Bernese the chances are that someone in the club will have encountered it previously and will be able to help and give advice. There is a wealth of experience of Bernese ownership within the club and most owners are happy to share their knowledge. The club has Rules - which members must follow - this relates largely to the conduct of members in their treatment of their Bernese and, whilst members are free to pursue their own ideas, serious breaches of the Rules may ultimately result in expulsion from the club via the procedures laid down in the rules.
Membership
Membership of the club is open to anyone interested in Bernese, you don't even have to have a dog. Annual membership runs from October through to September and as soon as your membership is processed you will begin to receive club publications, information and details of events. See our Membership Section to select the best option for you and download the application form.
SUMMARY
The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Ireland may be able to put you in touch with someone in your area who, from experience, will be able to discuss any aspect of owning a Bernese. If you have considered all the foregoing issues mentioned above and decide to take a Bernese into your life then you will have years to discover what rewarding companions these beautiful dogs can be. Your Bernese will give an awful lot of pleasure and joy to you. Make sure beforehand that you can give them the things they need back in return, particularly in the highly important early days!!!!
DO YOUR HOMEWORK, BE PREPARED AND YOU'LL LOVE AND ENJOY YOUR BERNESE!
For all enquiries please email [email protected] and we will do our best to help.
or
Contact by Post:
Club Secretary
Fiona Stafford Byrne
Danganroe,
Castletown,
Co Laois,
R32V022.
The Club can provide a list of reputable breeders, this can be obtained by emailing the Club Secretary, Fiona Stafford Byrne at [email protected]. It is not the job of the club to vet either the breeders or people looking for puppies. It is up to each and every potential puppy owner to make sure they are happy with the way the breeder operates and rears their dogs and pups before purchasing. Any legitimate breeder will ask you many questions to be sure that you can provide all the care and attention that is vital to a puppy of this sensitive breed. In some cases, you may not be able to give a Bernese all it needs and another breed or species may be a better option for you.
If you are seeking advice and considering whether to buy a Bernese you may hear different opinions and we would suggest that you take as much advice and talk to as many people as possible in order to evaluate each opinion and form your own. In common with all breeds Bernese do have their problems and whilst you should enquire about them these must be kept in perspective. Above all meet some Bernese and their owners, if at all possible in a domestic environment or if not, at least at a show or other event where you can ‘get a feel’ for the breed. The club may be able to put you in touch with someone reasonably close who is willing to share their experience of Bernese with you and possibly arrange for you to visit their dogs.
If you decide that a Bernese is not the breed for you and your family, it is much better for you and the dog that you research sufficiently, and decide prior to obtaining your puppy than to find out the hard way afterwards. Your Bernese will be a loyal and giving friend to you so make sure that you understand their needs and can give them what they require in return.
Breed Considerations for the Prospective Owner
The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of a group of four native Swiss working breeds, all of which have the same striking black, white and tan markings. The Bernese is the second largest of the group, and the only one with a long coat....it is also the only one bred in the British Isles. An adult male will measure between 64-70cms, a bitch slightly less. If thinking of buying a Bernese then please think very carefully and take as much good advice as possible. The following are suggestions of some points to consider BEFORE you search for your puppy and much of it would equally apply to many other breeds. There is much more thought and responsibility involved in owning a large and powerful dog than just having the money to pay the food and vet's bills. Growing dogs need to have a place and time to rest away from the attentions of toddlers and children and many breeders are very reluctant to sell puppies to households with small children.
Further Knowledge
If you feel that you and your family can cope with and really want a Bernese then your next task is to ascertain more about them and decide that they are definitely the breed for you. There are several options open to you. There are breed books, these include The Bernese Mountain Dog by Diana Cochrane and The Complete Bernese Mountain Dog by Jude Simonds and The Bernese Mountain Dog Today by Dr. Malcolm Willis. There are other publications available also. There is also a wealth of knowledge on the internet as most Bernese clubs have their own websites. Try and see some Bernese, the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Irelannd organise shows and events throughout the year, details of these can be obtained from the Club Secretary and you will see updates on this website throughout the year. Bernese owners are more than happy to talk about their dogs and are a mine of information on the breed, do not be afraid to mingle and ask questions. You may receive more than one answer to the same question but at least you will have some impressions from which to form your own opinions. More ideally try to see Bernese in a home environment.
Admiring them at a show is different to imagining them fitting into your kitchen or living room. With the help of the Club you may locate a willing owner in your area and ask if you can visit, many Bernese owners would be pleased to ‘show off’ their dogs and answer any questions you have. If ‘active’ in the breed this owner could then be a valuable source of puppy contacts for you if you decide to purchase. If you have definitely decided to become a Bernese owner you could join our Club before finding your dog. This way you will receive regular information of events and breed issues. The club runs annual events where many members, who do not normally attend dog shows, come to meet other owners. Here they can discuss little problems, compare progress with others or maybe purchase some Bernese related items and memorabilia from our club stall. The club aims to be friendly and approachable to all its members, not just ‘show people’. The committee are always open to any constructive ideas from members.
HEALTH ISSUES
The following are health issues of relevance to Bernese, although most apply to many other breeds, but it should be remembered that the majority of Bernese lead normal healthy lives and do not encounter any significant problems. None of the following should be taken out of proportion and if you are especially worried over any particular aspect then please take further advice.
Hip Dysplasia (usually simply referred to as “HD”)
This is a condition which is widespread in virtually all breeds of dog. You should therefore ask breeders about the hip scores of the puppy's parents and even their grandparents and other relatives. It is now usual to have Bernese elbow scored at the same time as the hips are done. You should not buy puppies from parents who have not been ‘hip scored‘ and ‘elbow scored’.
Osteochondrosis (referred to as “Osteo” or “OCD”)
This term has come to cover a range of related conditions affecting one or more of the joints in many breeds of dog, in Bernese it particularly effects elbows of dogs typically between 6-10 months of age. Sometimes a puppy may not have serious lameness but merely an occasional limp on a front leg. This frequently disappears of its own accord without further problems sometimes by a regime of restricted free exercise. (This is not to say that foreleg lameness in puppies is necessarily Osteochondrosis as growing dogs can obviously sustain normal sprains and strains). In view of the accepted hereditary influence of OCD and the existence of elbow problems, it is advisable to enquire about the scores a dog or bitch have been given.
Hypomyelinogenesis (known as "Trembler")
This is a condition exclusive to Bernese although there are very similar conditions in other breeds. The condition has been shown to be caused by a straight forward recessive gene and its likelihood of inheritance could therefore be predicted if all carriers of the gene were known. This condition is now very rare in Bernese having being bred out by careful, selective breeding programmes.
Cancer
You may be told that a high percentage (40%) of Bernese die of cancer and this is documented as true but only in the context of reported breed deaths. (The vast majority of deaths are not reported). The relative position as compared to other breeds is not so clear because all breeds encounter cancer. Whilst the Bernese fraternity have ongoing cause of death and cancer surveys, until other breeds have similar investigations our breed cannot be claimed to be any better or worse than others.
Early Deaths (Longevity)
You may also be told that Bernese are not long lived and whilst at times this does seem to be true there are many Bernese who do live longer than the average age of 7 years which again is the figure from the breed reported death survey.
Elongated Soft Palate
The soft palate in the dog is normally a short flap of mucous membrane covered muscles which lies between the cavity of the mouth and the pharynx. Excessive panting caused by stress or hot weather can cause an elongated soft palate to restrict the airway, therefore causing severe breathing difficulties or even asphyxia. Surgery to correct the defect is successful, but Bernese having this defect should not be bred from, as the condition is recognised as inherited.
Bloat
Another potentially fatal condition which can occur in all larger breeds is bloat and some owners, having encountered this, prefer to feed small meals to reduce the risk.
Eye Problems
Bernese are not prone to serious canine eye problems found most commonly in the gundog breeds, and generally have sound constitutions. Entropion and Extropia, conditions of the eyelid turning in or out and malformed in many breeds, can occur but good breeding practice in the past has minimised their presence and hopefully will continue to do so.
Some Other Health Points
As a large and mainly black dog, Bernese can be prone to heat stroke if allowed to spend too much time in strong sunshine particularly if allowed to play too much. This can also make them more prone than most to the potentially fatal effects of being left in a car, even on mild but sunny day. As an owner it is important to be aware of the early symptoms and treatment of this quickly fatal condition.
Thoughts - Can You Cope?
Before buying a Bernese puppy make sure that you have the ability, time, space, resources and most importantly willingness to care for them adequately. This is not a breed which takes kindly to being shut up alone for long periods away from their family, particularly whilst young. They are a loving and giving friend but if neglected can grow into a boisterous problem and this can be difficult to retrain. Generally Bernese are willing to please and therefore relatively easy to train to an acceptable level of behaviour and this should be done whilst young. There is nothing more frustrating to a Bernese lover than a dog presented with a ‘temperament problem’ which merely lacks some basic domestic behaviour training which many experienced owners perform in an acceptable fashion as part of daily life. Are you prepared to ensure that they learn such acceptable behaviour from you, either alone or with the help of a local training class?
Can You Afford to Feed a Large Dog?
Once mature Bernese do not eat as much as most people seem to think but whilst growing can consume large amounts of a quality diet for a year or more. Make sure that you have the financial resources to cope with any veterinary bills you might incur as well as routine inoculations etc. Be happy that your garden and house can stand the impact of a large dog. You do not have to have a massive plot but dogs should not be encouraged or allowed to foul in parks, on pavements or similar public places so your garden may have to bear the brunt of the “consequences”. If they do foul an improper place you should at all times be prepared to clean up after your own dog.
Whilst “teething” some puppies can go through a destructive phase if not encouraged to play with their own chewing toys and, when left unsupervised for just a short time, even a youngster can do a lot of damage to your favourite furniture. Have you the time (and inclination) to take them for daily walks?
Are you satisfied that ALL your family are happy with the prospect of a large dog entering their home? If a member of a family does not want this addition then problems can ensue. Small children can also be a problem either aggravating the dog or opening doors, gates etc.
Finding a Puppy
Having done all you can to educate yourself and decided that a Bernese is for you, you will need to set about locating a puppy. At times there are few litters to find and it can be difficult, especially for the beginner, to locate a puppy. This is where the contacts you may have already made through the above information gathering could come in useful.
Our Club events and general shows are good sources of news regarding who has litters at the moment. Breed club secretaries often hear of matings and whelpings and your local contact who is active in the breed will probably prove to be of most use. Even if not breeding themselves, they will be able to suggest the most likely sources of puppies for you. Whilst physical appearance and characteristics are important, along with appropriate consideration to the issues mentioned previously, your dog has to be part of your family and the prime concern should always be TEMPERAMENT. The stud dog's influence should not be forgotten, you may be able to see him and talk to his owners at a show or event. You should be able to see the bitch with her puppies. If you are not happy with any answers then do not commit yourself until you have taken further advice. It is better, for you and the dog to wait for the right puppy than rush in and make a mistake. Please feel free to contact the Club if you have any doubts, we don’t know everything, but we will know someone who can help, and our advice costs nothing.
Information and Problems
If you encounter a problem with your Bernese the chances are that someone in the club will have encountered it previously and will be able to help and give advice. There is a wealth of experience of Bernese ownership within the club and most owners are happy to share their knowledge. The club has Rules - which members must follow - this relates largely to the conduct of members in their treatment of their Bernese and, whilst members are free to pursue their own ideas, serious breaches of the Rules may ultimately result in expulsion from the club via the procedures laid down in the rules.
Membership
Membership of the club is open to anyone interested in Bernese, you don't even have to have a dog. Annual membership runs from October through to September and as soon as your membership is processed you will begin to receive club publications, information and details of events. See our Membership Section to select the best option for you and download the application form.
SUMMARY
The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Ireland may be able to put you in touch with someone in your area who, from experience, will be able to discuss any aspect of owning a Bernese. If you have considered all the foregoing issues mentioned above and decide to take a Bernese into your life then you will have years to discover what rewarding companions these beautiful dogs can be. Your Bernese will give an awful lot of pleasure and joy to you. Make sure beforehand that you can give them the things they need back in return, particularly in the highly important early days!!!!
DO YOUR HOMEWORK, BE PREPARED AND YOU'LL LOVE AND ENJOY YOUR BERNESE!
For all enquiries please email [email protected] and we will do our best to help.
or
Contact by Post:
Club Secretary
Fiona Stafford Byrne
Danganroe,
Castletown,
Co Laois,
R32V022.
