The Bernese Mountain Dog's temperament is a strong point of the breed. Affectionate, loyal, faithful, stable and intelligent, Bernese Mountain Dogs make wonderful family pets. They are very trainable provided the owner is patient and consistent in training; Berners need time to think things through.
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a farm dog of ancestral origin which was used as a guard and draught dog and for driving cattle in the prealpine regions and in the midland areas around Bern.
Originally he was named "Dürrbächler" according to the name of the hamlet and of the inn of Dürrbach, near Riggisberg, where this longhaired tricoloured farm dog was especially appreciated.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are a large, lovable breed of dogs. While the Bernese Mountain Dog is very large and attentive, they are also very gentle and friendly. They are very good around children as they are minimally aggressive. Because of their size, the Bernese Mountain Dog requires regular, but not overly stressful exercise.
These dogs need lots of human companionship and must be allowed inside the house. Berners are outdoor dogs at heart, though well-behaved in the house; they need activity and exercise, but do not have a great deal of endurance. They can move with amazing bursts of speed for their size when motivated; stray cats and similar intruders must beware of the Berner!