My goal as a breeder
All of my dogs are OFA or GDC evaluated for hips and elbows. I also have CERF clearances, thyroid testing and cardiac clearances on dogs being bred. I use dogs which I feel are of sound temperament with a history of quality and health predominant in their background. My goal is to breed as true to the Bernese AKC standard as possible to achieve a dog of health, size, strength, substance and a brave but gentle disposition.
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large sturdy dog bred in the cantons of Switzerland by farmers to work as an all around farm dog. Guarding the family home and draft work were among its chief responsibilities along with assisting the farmer to drive livestock to and from the firelds. This background gives the Bernese a wide range of capabilities. It provides him with a steady temperament and easily trained. Due to his size, training is a must.
Bernese are large dogs with good sturdy bone and a strong appearance. They are tri-colored black, rust and white. The white may be seen in various amounts on the head, feet, chest and tip of tail. They should be confident and alert, not shy or aggressive. Although strong in appearance the Bernese can sadly be plagued with various health problems. Primary problems are hip and elbow dysplagia, allergies and other auto-immune disorders and cancer. Due to the polygenetic nature of many of these problems they are equally hard to breed out so that one may see healthy normal parents produce an affected puppy. Hopefully, with careful screening health problems will be minimized.