history In early years, the Bernese Mountain Dog could be found in different areas of Switzerland, mainly near the city of Berne. The ancestors of this breed are Mastiffs, which were introduced to Switzerland about 2000 years ago. The Mastiff and the Swiss farm dog were bred together to create the Bernese Mountain Dog. They are one of the four types of Swiss Mountain Dogs also known as Berner Sennenhund, and were developed to be working dogs. This particular breed was mainly used on Swiss farms to watch and protect the farm, pull carts and herd livestock.
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The people of Switzerland continued to breed Bernese Mountain dogs, as they were very important to their culture of farming. This breed grew in popularity because of their ability to protect their owners and the entire farm from danger as well as being loyal companions. In 1926, the Bernese Mountain Dog was introduced to the United States and soon after in Canada. Later in 1937, the breed was recognized in the American Kennel Club. The Bernese Mountain Dog has served people for generations and is a member of the working dog group. |