What’s more fun than playing with your kids? It’s playing with your kids… AND an adorable puppy!
Are you looking for a dog that’s gentle, loyal, and great with kids? Bernese Mountain Dogs have earned a reputation as one of the most family-friendly breeds.
Today, we’re taking a closer look into what makes Bernese Mountain Dogs ideal family pets, and what to consider when looking at Bernese mountain dog puppies for sale.
Bernese Puppies Temperament
The Bernese Mountain Dog is known for its gentle and calm temperament, which makes it a top choice for families. These dogs are naturally friendly and form strong bonds with their human companions. There are three key traits that make Bernese puppies perfect for family life:
- Friendly and approachable nature
- Gentle and patient with children
- Loyalty and deep bonds with owners
Friendly and Approachable Nature
Bernese puppies have a friendly and approachable nature, which helps them interact well with people and other pets. They are social dogs who enjoy being around others and are not typically aggressive. This breed’s friendliness makes them easy to introduce into family settings.
Gentle and Patient with Children
Their gentle and patient temperament is particularly suited for families with children. Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for being calm, which allows them to be playful without being too rough.
They tend to be patient with young children and enjoy spending time with them. Their gentle nature helps ensure they fit well in homes with kids.
Loyalty and Deep Bonds with Owners
Finally, loyalty is a defining trait of the Bernese Mountain Dog. They form deep bonds with their owners and often become protective of their families. For families looking for a devoted, friendly, and gentle dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog is an excellent match.
What to Know Before Buying Bernese Mountain Dogs
Before deciding on a Bernese Mountain Dog, it’s helpful to know some key factors about the breed and what they require. Here are three main considerations:
- Size and space needs
- Exercise and activity requirements
- Commitment to grooming and care
Size and Space Needs
Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, which means they need ample space to move comfortably. They may feel cramped in small apartments and tend to do best in homes with yards. Their sturdy build makes them well-suited to the outdoors, and they often enjoy spending time in open spaces where they can stretch out and explore.
Exercise and Activity Requirements
These dogs also require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. While they are generally calm, they do enjoy outdoor activities and can become restless if they don’t get enough movement. Daily walks and some playtime in a secure area usually meet their exercise needs.
Commitment to Grooming and Care
Grooming and general care are other essential aspects of owning a Bernese Mountain Dog. Their thick, double-layer coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting, especially during shedding seasons. A commitment to grooming keeps their coat healthy and their shedding manageable.
Health Considerations for Bernese Mountain Dogs
Hip and elbow dysplasia are joint issues often seen in larger dog breeds. These conditions can cause pain and mobility problems as the dog ages.
While not all Bernese Mountain Dogs develop these issues, they are somewhat common in the breed. Regular check-ups and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage or prevent discomfort related to dysplasia.
Cancer is another health issue that is relatively common in Bernese Mountain Dogs. Studies show that Bernese have a higher incidence of cancer compared to many other breeds.
Lymphoma and histiocytic sarcoma are two types that affect them more frequently. Regular veterinary visits and early screenings can sometimes catch signs of these diseases early, offering a better chance for treatment.
Bloat, or gastric torsion, is another condition that can affect Bernese Mountain Dogs. This life-threatening condition involves the stomach twisting, which can quickly become serious.
Slowing down mealtimes, dividing food into smaller portions, and avoiding vigorous exercise after meals may lessen the likelihood of bloat.
Bernese Mountain Dog Puppies for Sale: Choosing Reputable Breeders
When considering Bernese mountain dog puppies for sale, it’s essential to choose a reputable breeder. A responsible breeder prioritizes the health and well-being of the dogs, ensuring they are properly cared for before finding homes.
There are three key things to look for when selecting a breeder to avoid puppy mills:
Health testing and transparency
Proper living conditions
Questions and support
Health Testing and Transparency
Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy dogs. They conduct health tests on their breeding pairs to reduce the risk of passing on genetic conditions, particularly common issues in Bernese Mountain Dogs.
A trustworthy breeder should be open about the health history of their dogs and share test results with potential buyers. This transparency gives buyers peace of mind that their puppy comes from a healthy background.
Proper Living Conditions
Living conditions are another indicator of a breeder’s dedication. Responsible breeders keep their puppies in clean, comfortable environments, providing ample space for exercise and socialization.
Puppies raised in good conditions tend to be healthier and better adjusted, making them easier to integrate into family life. Visiting the breeder’s facility or seeing photos can provide insight into the puppies’ living situation.
Questions and Support
A reputable breeder will also be open to questions and offer support after the sale. They’ll answer questions about the puppy’s care, temperament, and specific needs. Many responsible breeders are willing to stay in touch, offering guidance as the puppy grows. Ongoing support shows a commitment to the breed and to the future of each puppy they place.
Family-friendly Dog Breeds
If you’re searching for Bernese mountain dog puppies for sale, choosing a reputable breeder and understanding their care needs will help you welcome a healthy, happy puppy into your family.
At Woodlot Companions, stewardship guides every part of our breeding practices. Our dogs enjoy spacious, well-ventilated indoor living areas with heated floors and access to six acres outdoors, including a two-acre play area. We meet Ohio state and USDA standards, partner with a veterinarian, and ensure each puppy is a great match for its new family.
Get in touch today to find out how we can help with your next puppy!
