Some Facts and Tidbits on Bernese Mountain Dogs (BMD)
April 3rd, 2009 by Gabe Richardson
What separates Bernese Mountain dogs from other dogs is that not only do they act as plain watchers, playmates, or farm dogs alone, but they can be all of these– and more. This animal may look meek and behave innocently but don’t get fooled. Even though they can entrance you with their elegantly long, soft coal-colored hair, they can also watch over you, work for you, and play with you.
Bernese Mountain dogs are all these but did you know they nearly entered extinction in the early 20th century? Imagine if no rescue came for this breed. There would be no cattle herder, milk hauler, farm dog, and family watchdog for the many families in the Alps.
What’s more, there would be no BMD today in North America and all over the world. We wouldn’t have experienced the cute black- furred mountain dog, the gentle and fun playmate, and the intelligent and brave companion. Yes, there are other great breeds but the dog breeding world wouldnt be complete without the gentle Bernese Mountain dogs.
BMDs origin isn’t really clear but experts do believe they are a cross breed of some mountain dogs, presumably from Rome. The BMD came to Switzerland with the invading Romans and have lived there ever since. They did their jobs as mountain dogs very well until their near extinction in the 20th century.
Some breed enthusiasts, however, discovered how great these dogs are and decided to save them from ignorant owners. They brought and bred the dogs in Berne, Switzerland and it is there that this breed flourished. The dog became Bernese Mountain dog and in 1926, it officially arrived in the US.
Today, there are still pure bred BMDs working in farms on the mountains of Switzerland. In the US, however, they are pampered pets. Kids and adult alike love this breed because they are naturally playful, gentle, and loving.
Pure breeds of Berenese Mountain dogs are hard to find and cost much in the US. If you have time and money to spare, however, this breed is worth it. With its elegant features and good abilities, you can surely conclude that this dog is worth the price.
Compared to other breeds, we can say that Bernese Mountain dogs are the only ones who can be safe playmates and intelligent companions while looking so serene and beautiful at the same time. Catching a glimpse of them from a distance, one can’t help but be mesmerized by their gentleness and radiant beauty. To know that they nearly faced extinction, we can only be thankful to those breeders who braved on rescuing them then.
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