Bernese Mountain Dog

Working group: Working dogs encompass a wide range of different breeds- but they all were bred to assist people, so they are used to working hard. It is important for them to feel they have a "job" as their roles traditionally have varied from rescuing people to pulling sleds. Because of their large size and intensity, they may be a handful for first time dog owners. On the other side, they can be trained well, so any owner who can exercise and dedicate to training their working dog, will be well rewarded. A common misconception may be that the working dog's jobs are only in physically challenging jobs; actually working dogs can also make excellent service dogs, since they are also kind and attentive to their owners.

Mountain Type sub-group: Mountain type dogs are rustic, powerful, and majestic. They are not a good dog for first time owners since they are demanding, and need an owner who they can respect and appreciate. Of course they need loving just like any other dog, but they are unique because they have these additional "expectations". In addition, mountain type dogs want to feel they always have some sort of "job" to do since they were bred to either protect a property or flock. Mountain dogs are similar to livestock guardian dogs in many ways, but have been raised on the mountains, and typically are better suited for extreme weather conditions, particularly cold weather. Mountain dogs are not always friendly with strangers or other dogs, since they are used to being in charge, and are protective. However, with family and small children they can be extremely loving, and enjoy a night cuddled up alongside you. Mountain Dogs bark a lot and love being outdoors, so they are probably the worst dog for an apartment.