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Bernese Mountain Dog Temperament & Personality Traits

Dr Julia Brassel
Reviewed by:
Dr. Julia Brassel
Veterinarian

Originating from the farmlands of Switzerland, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a large and versatile dog in the working category. They were originally bred to pull carts of milk, herd cattle and be watchdogs, but what is their temperament and personality like?

Bernese Mountain dogs are friendly, loyal and have an aloof disposition around strangers. This breed is obedient and eager to please, which makes them easily trained, great working dogs and loyal and affectionate companions.

These mountain dogs make great family pets, but if you want to know more about these large dogs’ personalities, then keep on reading.

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Bernese Mountain Dog Main Personality Traits

The Berner is good-natured and one of the least aggressive dogs in the canine world. Their friendly and calm temperament makes them loving and caring towards pets and humans alike, making a Bernese Mountain puppy an exceptional family pet. Here are some of their main personality traits:

Friendly

Don’t let their large and powerful frame intimidate you because Berners love to make new friends – even though they come off with an aloof dignity amongst strangers. With their affectionate, robust and outgoing nature, they can’t help but want to love anything and everyone they meet.

Alert

Move over, Lassie! Bernese Mountain dogs are extremely vigilant, and this canine companion will be on the alert before anything is in sight. The brilliant thing about this breed is their alert mode is often balanced as they’re still friendly, not overly protective, and don’t bark excessively. This combination makes them the perfect watchdog.

Hard workers

Being bred for hard work, it’s no wonder Berners love attending obedience training, especially in cold weather. This personality trait is driven by their need for mental stimulation and their eagerness to please their owners.

Intelligent

The Bernese Mountain dog is incredibly bright and is a quick learner, which also drives their love for training.

Calm Disposition

As alert as Berners are to urgent matters, they have such a calm disposition about them. They are relatively active, but there’s no need to keep them entertained for all hours of the day, as they’d be happy just to take a nap.
 

Bernese Mountain Dogs and Your Family

To bring a Bernese mountain dog into your family is to gain a loyal and loving pet. But how exactly do they interact with the rest of the humans and other furry members of the family?

Can Bernese Mountain Dogs live with other dogs?

Bernese Mountain dogs get along with other dogs well. However, we recommend you socialise your Bernese Mountain Dog puppy as early as possible, as they do come across as aloof to other dog breeds.

Because of their friendly disposition, the Bernese Mountain dog is more than likely to welcome an added addition to the family. They also fit in effortlessly if they are the new pet.

You’ll be happy to know they get along well with their own kind, so having two of these fluffy dogs is an excellent choice.

It is very rare for a Berner to show aggression towards other dogs. However, it’s not impossible, and because of this, it’s best to take them through early and proper socialisation.

Can the Bernese Mountain Dog live with other pets?

Yes, the Bernese Mountain Dog breed can and will live well with other animals. As the Berner owner, you have to socialise the puppy from a young age and get them used to any other pets living with them. Despite their large size, they get on well with cats and other smaller pets.

They are excellent family dogs. There’s nothing more to say, but they are lovely with kids because of their cuddly nature. However, because of their size, it’s best to stay vigilant when they’re around small children or babies; being a large dog, they might knock little kids over.

Can Bernese Mountain Dogs live with kids?

They are excellent family dogs and are lovely with kids because of their cuddly nature. However, because of their size, it’s best to stay vigilant when they’re around small children or babies; being a large dog, they might knock little kids over.
 

Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Have Any Behavioural Issues?

These dogs are devoted to their family. And while this is a very noble character trait, it does lead to them suffering from separation anxiety when left alone for too long. Failing to give your dog enough attention or exercise can lead to destructive chewing.

Otherwise, there are no other undesirable behaviours worth noting. The Berner has a beautiful personality that will agree with your family members.
 

FAQs

Is a Bernese Mountain Dog a good family dog?

Yes, the Bernese Mountain dogs are good family dogs. They’re easily trained, adapt quickly to different family dynamics and love their owners with every fibre of their being. While they’re patient, friendly and love every member of the family, Bernese usually has a soft spot for one person in particular. If you’re that one lucky person l you can expect a lifelong loyal companion.

Are Bernese Mountain Dogs cuddly?

Bernese Mountain dogs are as cuddly as they look. They’re super affectionate and love to cuddle. So much so that if they’re separated from their loved ones for too long, they suffer from separation anxiety.

Do Bernese Mountain Dogs have a good temperament?

Yes, they have an excellent temperament paired off with a beautiful personality and adorable looks. With bringing home a Bernese Mountain dog, you can expect a patient, gentle, affectionate, and alert but calm dog. This results in a wonderful family pet who will get along with humans and other animals.
 

Final Thoughts on Bernese Mountain Dog Temperament & Personality

It’s important to remember that before you decide on getting a Berner, you have to do your research beforehand. But if you’re looking for a large, hard-working, loyal and loveable addition to the family, you can’t go wrong with a Bernese Mountain dog.

Learn more about: Bernese Mountain Dog

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