The Bernese Mountain Dog—affectionately known as the “Berner”—is one of the most iconic and cherished breeds in the world. Their striking tri-colored coats, calm nature, and deep loyalty make them exceptional family companions. To help owners understand this remarkable breed, we’ve gathered detailed insights from Ron Solsrud, co-proprietor of Petland Iowa City and a trusted authority in responsible pet care.

A Thousand Years of Heritage: The Berner’s Swiss Origins

The Bernese Mountain Dog comes from the farmlands of Bern, Switzerland, where it served as a versatile working dog for over a millennium. Historically, Berners worked as draft dogs, cattle herders, and property guardians throughout the rugged Alpine region.

For readers interested in historical documentation, the breed’s Swiss lineage is outlined by the Swiss Kennel Club (SKG) and the international federation FCI: 🔗 External Resource: https://fci.be/en/nomenclature/BERNESE-MOUNTAIN-DOG-45.html

Modern recognition came after preservation efforts in the late 1800s, which eventually led to the breed’s export to the U.S. following World War I. Today, Berners are fully recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC): 🔗 External Resource: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/bernese-mountain-dog/

Temperament: A Gentle Giant with a Devoted Heart

Bernese Mountain Dogs are loved for their intelligence, sensitivity, and deep loyalty. They thrive when involved in family life and are known for forming strong bonds with their people.

Key Temperament Traits

• Highly affectionate and family-centered
  

• Intelligent and responsive to training
  

• Gentle with children
  

• Alert but not aggressive
  

• Often shy with strangers—making early socialization essential
  

If your website has a training page or puppy-care guide, link it here as an internal source. 💡 Example internal link: 👉 How to Socialize Your Puppy https://www.petlandiowacity.com/home-training-your-dog/

Essential Care: Grooming, Diet & Exercise Requirements

Berners are large, high-maintenance dogs that require dedicated care throughout their lifetimes.

Size & Lifespan

• Females: ~80 lbs
  

• Males: 100+ lbs
  

• Lifespan: 6–9 years
  

The breed’s lifespan is influenced by genetics, orthopedic risks, and rapid growth—topics studied by veterinary institutions such as the Morris Animal Foundation: 🔗 External Resource: https://www.morrisanimalfoundation.org

Exercise Needs: 90 Minutes of Activity a Day

Young Berners are energetic and benefit from a structured daily routine.

Recommended Exercise:

• 90 minutes of vigorous activity
  

• 2–3 structured walks or runs
  

• Mental engagement through training or puzzle toys
  

Owners living in apartments can meet these needs with consistency and commitment.

For exercise enrichment ideas: 🔗 External Resource (AKC Training & Enrichment): https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/

Diet & Nutrition: Preventing Unhealthy Weight Gain

Because Berners love to eat, controlled feeding is critical.

Best Practices:

• No free-feeding
  

• Measured portions
  

• Split meals into 2–3 feedings
  

• Use high-quality large-breed food formulas
  

For credible nutrition guidance: 🔗 External Resource – Veterinary Partner Nutrition Articles: https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/

Grooming: Managing Heavy Year-Round Shedding

Berners shed constantly and may require professional grooming support.

Grooming essentials:

• Professional Furminator treatments 3–6× yearly
  

• Regular brushing at home
  

• Optional summer trims to help with heat
  

Occasional professional coat resets

Visit Petland Iowa City for Trusted Expertise

Whether you want to meet Berners, Bernedoodles, or other pets like cats, fish, and parakeets, Ron and Wendy Solsrude welcome you to Petland Iowa City.

📍 Marketplace Mall, 1851 Lower Muscatine Road, Iowa City 📞 319-351-9451

Hours:

• Sunday: 12 PM – 6 PM
  

Monday–Saturday: 10 AM – 9 PM