
| Origin | |
| Originally used to drive and guard cattle by the Romans (approximately two millennia ago), this breed has enjoyed a long history involving a lot of hard work! They found their way to Switzerland when the Romans occupied that country. The breed largely developed in the mountainous district of Bern (Switzerland’s capital city) – hence the name. | |
| Lifespan | |
| 9-12 years | |
| Size | |
| 58-70 cms (22-27 inches) | |
| Weight | |
| 32-54 kgs (70-120 lbs) | |
| Coat | |
| The coat is of medium length and silky with a slight wave, and needs only a small amount of daily grooming. | |
| Build | |
| This giant canine is very stocky and has a thick bone; it’s compact with a deep, broad chest. | |
| Characteristics | |
| The Bernese is self-confident, good natured, friendly and fearless but not aggressive. A kind and devoted dog, it is essential that they are made part of the family. |
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| Colour | |
| Generally, tricolour: jet black, chestnut and white | |