One of the most beautiful of Swiss dogs, used by the weavers of Berne as a draught dog, and also employed in herding sheep and cattle. He is still occasionally harnessed to a light cart, which he enjoys pulling, often to the delight of the small children riding inside.

The Bernese carries the traditional Swiss colouring of black and tan with white markings. The breed can be traced back to the Roman invasion of what we now call Switzerland some 2,000 years ago. Caesar’s troops, which were always on the move, needed dogs to guard their supplies, and the mastiff types they brought with them eventually mated with local flock-guarders, from which the Bernese evolved with an ability to withstand the severe weather of the Alps.

The name is taken from the canton of Berne, and the Bernese has also attracted other less flattering names, such as Gelbbacken (Yellow Cheeks) and Vieraugen (Four Eyes), while the association as a draft dog also earned the breed the name of ‘Cheese Factory Dog’.

He is of imposing stature, and the striking tricolour markings of his soft, silky coat add to his impressive appearance. Never aggressive, he is a gentleman, kind and courteous, well-mannered and affectionate. Not a noisy dog, but obedient and easily trained, he makes a perfect companion for children and a devoted family pet.