Bernese Water Dog -- Bernese Mountain Dog X Portuguese Water Dog

		Bernese Water Dog
		He is not recognized by the F.C.I.


Origin			Switzerland <> Portugal -> U.S.A.
Translation			Francis Vandersteen

A brief presentation of the Bernese Water Dog

Many people like larger dogs. Bernese Water Dogs crossed with Standard Poodles have worked very well. We thought: Why not offer a more suitable combination to designers? What could be better than a Bernese Mountain Dog with a Portuguese Water Dog? According to Designer Breeding, this combination will be a fantastic winner all round. You don't have that curly sheepdog look.

History of the Bernese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dog puppies resemble Bernese Mountain Dog puppies with the same facial characteristics, rather than a Poodle with a longer, leaner muzzle. They will be much more intelligent, active and agile, shed much less, have a longer lifespan and present far fewer health problems. Like the Portuguese Water Dog and Bernese Mountain Dog, they will be a much more affectionate and willing-to-please combination than a Poodle, and much less hyperactive. It's a loving, loyal combination.

	A little of the Bernese Mountain Dog
	The Bernese Mountain Dog originated in Switzerland and was originally bred to be a watchdog, cart dog and farm dog. One of the tasks they were expected to perform was to be the source of transport for small products, such as milk and cheese, for certain farmers who were unable to own draft horses. The breed was all but forgotten until the 19th century, when a Swiss innkeeper and a university professor began looking for dogs of this breed. In 1892, they began to stabilize the number of breeds.

	Standard of the Bernese Mountain Dog


	A little of the Portuguese Water Dog
	Exceptionally intelligent, they understand and obey their master's commands easily and happily. They are impetuous, strong-willed, courageous, sober and resistant to fatigue. They have a stern expression and penetrating gaze, excellent eyesight and a good sense of smell. An excellent and hardy swimmer and diver, it is the inseparable companion of fishermen, to whom it renders innumerable services not only in fishing, but also as guardian and defender of their boats and property. When fishing, it jumps spontaneously into the sea and dives if necessary to catch and retrieve escaped fish; it does the same if a net tears or a mooring line comes loose. This dog is also used as a liaison between the boat and the shore or vice versa, even when the distance is considerable.

	Standard of the Portuguese Water Dog

Appearance of the Bernese Water Dog

New designer breed, very versatile, affectionate, devoted and intelligent. A cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Portuguese Water Dog, they are a healthier breed, with far fewer medical problems than the Bernese Mountain Dog. Smaller, they shed less, are more intelligent, have a longer lifespan, are more agile and are better in the water.

Temperament of the Bernese Water Dog

Super alert, tolerant, gentle and kind and extremely fun-loving. Not as shy as a Bernese Mountain Dog. More inquisitive and intelligent in the wild than the Portuguese Water Dog. They love hiking, swimming, boating and, in general, being with you and being your faithful companion. Whatever you want to do, they want to do it with you.

Needs and activities of the Bernese Water Dog

Like most breeds, they benefit from early socialization and obedience training, and are eager to please you. They are highly intelligent, curious and enjoy being with you. Like Portuguese Water Dogs. They like to be active indoors and learn new tricks. They are active outdoors to excel in obedience and agility.

Maintenance of the Bernese Water Dog

Bernese Water Dogs shed much less than related breeds. Brush if necessary. A haircut would be preferable for the hot summer season, especially for aquatic activities, as they like water much more than Bernese Water Dogs. It's much healthier than a Bernese Mountain Dog, and lasts longer.