Bernese Mountain Dogs have a fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. These lovable giants weren’t just bred for their good looks—they were hardworking, loyal companions with a critical role to play in Swiss farm life. Let’s take a journey through time to uncover the story of the Bernese Mountain Dog.
The history of Bernese Mountain Dogs can be traced back over 2,000 years to the Roman Empire. It’s believed that Roman soldiers brought mastiff-type dogs to Switzerland during their conquests. These dogs interbred with local Swiss farm dogs, creating sturdy, versatile breeds that could withstand harsh climates and work tirelessly.
The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of four Swiss Mountain Dog breeds that evolved from these Roman imports. While their larger cousins, like the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, focused on heavier labor, Berners were bred for slightly more versatile farm work.
By the 19th century, Bernese Mountain Dogs became indispensable on Swiss farms. Known as “Cheese Dogs”, they were particularly skilled at pulling carts loaded with milk, cheese, and other goods to market. Their immense strength and endurance made them a farmer’s best friend, while their affectionate personalities made them beloved family pets.
In addition to pulling carts, Berners also served as watchdogs and herders, protecting livestock and property. Their gentle temperament allowed them to interact easily with children and other animals.
Bernese Mountain Dogs Are Still Celebrated in Switzerland. In the town of Burgdorf, Switzerland, Berners are honored at annual events that showcase their cart-pulling skills and celebrate the breed’s rich history.
By the late 19th century, industrialization began to threaten the Bernese Mountain Dog. Machines replaced the need for dogs to pull carts, and demand for working farm dogs declined. As a result, the Bernese Mountain Dog population dwindled, and the breed was at risk of extinction.
Thankfully, a Swiss innkeeper named Franz Schertenleib recognized the beauty and value of the Bernese Mountain Dog. In the early 1900s, he partnered with Professor Albert Heim, a Swiss geologist and canine expert, to save the breed. Together, they located high-quality Berners in rural farms and began a careful breeding program to preserve their lineage.
In 1907, the first breed club was established in Switzerland, solidifying efforts to standardize and promote the Bernese Mountain Dog. By the 1920s, the breed gained popularity outside of Switzerland, particularly in the United States and the United Kingdom.
Today, Bernese Mountain Dogs are beloved around the world for their affectionate personalities, stunning looks, and gentle nature. While they’re no longer pulling carts or guarding livestock, they’ve found a new role as cherished family pets and therapy dogs.
Berners have also become popular in dog shows, thanks to their striking appearance and calm temperament. Their intelligence and willingness to please make them excellent candidates for obedience and agility competitions, as well as hiking and outdoor adventures with their families.
The journey of the Bernese Mountain Dog—from Roman conquerors to Swiss farms to modern homes—is a testament to their resilience and adaptability. They’ve come a long way from their humble beginnings, and today, they’re more popular than ever. If you have a Berner in your life, you’re not just welcoming a pet—you’re embracing a piece of history.
