BERN PAWS

Why Choose an Bern Paws? More Than a Dog, It’s a Lifestyle.

Choosing a Bernese Mountain Dog is about embracing a classic, steady companionship. Their lifestyle is characterized by:

· A Gentle, Anchoring Presence: They are famously calm, loyal “velcro dogs” that bond deeply with their families and prefer to be by your side.
· Seasonal Activities: They thrive in cooler weather and enjoy activities like hiking, cart-pulling (a traditional task), or simply relaxing with the family. Summer requires special care to keep them cool.
· Commitment to Care: This lifestyle involves daily brushing to manage heavy shedding, being proactive about their health due to a shorter average lifespan, and providing ample space for a large dog.
· The “Bernese Smile”: Owners often speak of the profound joy from their gentle, affectionate nature and serene companionship

Here’s why an Aussie from Elysian Shepherds could be the best decision you ever make:

1. Unmatched Intelligence & “Velcro” Devotion

The intelligence comes primarily from the Poodle, consistently ranked among the most intelligent dog breeds. This translates to a dog that is:

· Highly trainable and quick to learn commands and tricks.
· Eager to solve problems and needs mental stimulation.
· Alert and perceptive, often in tune with your emotions.

The “Velcro devotion” is the signature trait of the Bernese Mountain Dog. These gentle giants are known for forming profound, loyal bonds with their families and wanting to be involved in every aspect of your life, often following you from room to room.

2. A Versatile Partner for an Active Life

A Bernese is the quintessential steady, strong companion for certain types of adventure. Their versatility shines in:

· Hiking & Trekking: Excellent on cooler-weather trails. Their strength and endurance are great for long walks, though they are not built for extreme heat or running.
· Carting & Pulling: This is in their DNA! They can be trained for dog carting, which is a fantastic, structured activity that engages their body and mind.
· Winter Sports: They thrive in snow and can be wonderful companions for snowshoeing or gentle cross-country skiing.
· Versatility in the Home: After an activity, they seamlessly switch to being a calm, gentle presence—perfect for relaxing after an active day.

3. Breathtaking Beauty with a Purpose

The Bernese Mountain Dog’s beauty is iconic and functional:

· The Tri-Color Coat: Their jet black base with rich russet and pure white markings is not just for show. This distinct, bold pattern made them highly visible against the snow and landscapes of the Swiss Alps.
· A Powerful, Balanced Build: They possess a strong, sturdy frame that conveys both strength and gentle agility—a beauty born of utility.
· Expressive, Kind Eyes: Their gentle, intelligent expression completes the picture of a noble and dependable companion.

4. A Loyal and Protective Family Member

Their loyalty is legendary, and their protection is rooted in their history as farm guardians and watchdogs.

· Protective Style: Alert, Observant, and Deterrent by Presence. They are instinctively watchful and will bark to alert you to something unusual. Their large size and deep bark are often a natural deterrent. They are typically more reserved with strangers but not aggressive, using their presence as a first line of defense.
· Family Loyalty: Their loyalty is a profound, calm, and steadfast devotion. They bond with the entire family, often forming a special, gentle watch over children. They want to be with their family, often placing themselves between their family and a door or new person.
· Key Consideration: Their protective instinct is passive and confidence-based. Proper socialization is crucial so their watchfulness doesn’t become anxiety. They need to feel secure in their role.

Is an Bernese Mountain dog the Right Fit for YOU?

The Bernese Mountain Dog can be the most loving companion imaginable, but they are a specialized breed with significant challenges. Let’s honestly assess if you are the right fit for them.

· You want a calm, gentle, and profoundly loyal shadow that bonds with the entire family.
· You live in a house with space (not a small apartment) and have a cooler climate.
· You are home often and can provide consistent companionship (they can get lonely).
· You can handle daily brushing and constant cleaning of dog hair.
· Your primary activities are leisurely hikes, walking, carting, or simply being together—not high-intensity sports.
· Your heart is prepared for the likelihood of a shorter, more medically involved companionship.
· You have the financial means for premium food, routine vet care, potential surgeries, and pet insurance.

The Bernese Mountain Dog Difference

The Bernese Mountain Dog Difference is the experience of unconditional, serene love paired with heartbreak, and majestic beauty paired with relentless mess. It is the ultimate lesson in enjoying a magnificent “now” while being prepared for a difficult “later.”

They are not for everyone, but for the right person, the difference is everything.

· Value deep, quiet companionship over high-energy play.
· Define an active lifestyle as hiking in cool weather or cart-pulling, not running.
· See daily grooming as a bonding ritual, not a chore.
· Are financially and emotionally prepared for potential health challenges and a shorter lifespan.
· Have a home and lifestyle that can accommodate a large, shedding dog that thrives on companionship.