Are you wanting to raise a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy? Well this video/post will explain what it takes to get the best Bernese Mountain Dogs.
It Starts With Why
Why should you care about how to raise or have the knowledge on how a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy should be raised?
Basically, because its responsible and virtues to care. Taking responsibility for breeding and general companionship for that matter is first and most important to anyone wanting to raise dogs. Understanding the commitment that it takes to do it the right way will provide a more fulfilling experience. Secondly but just as important is we want to do right by the animal and its future generations. We strive for maintaining excellence laid out in AKC breed specific standards. These include factors such as health, conformation, and temperament. In the following article we will lay out some of the key factors we feel make the best Bernese Mountain Dogs.
*Disclaimer - We are writing this from a companion animal perspective. We are not show breeders and do not claim expertise into that aspect of breeding.
Generations & Bloodlines - Building Your Foundation
The first key to raising the best Bernese Mountain Dogs in understanding generations and bloodlines. Looking at past generations and bloodlines to forecast and build upon past success. A breeder may purchase puppies or adults from another breeder or retain puppies from their own lines. Either way the process for determining a quality and desirable litter outcome is the same.
One of the main tools we use for this research is an AKC Certified Pedigree and more specially the Research Pedigree. By researching pedigree you can find details relating to Show Titles and Foreign import history as examples.
The second aspect to pedigree research is health related testing with The OFA. Utilizing their Advanced Search allows for quick, accurate, and trusted information.
Third is genetic testing. There are specific panels for Bernese Mountain Dogs. There are a few testing services but the panel is the same. DM SOD1A, DM SOD1B, VW. Testing & pricing information can be found at these sites: Paw Prints Genetics, Gensol, Animal Genetics. (Be aware that Embark does not test for DM SOD1B)
Next It's All About The Looks!
After building your foundation then you may take into consideration the looks of your puppies. What size and build do you like? We at MDC prefer and found most other folks do as well the larger bodied muscular build. A square face and round muzzle are other features we like. Some may prefer a more slender athletic look. Beauty is often in eyes of the beholder. Coat texture and length are other considerations. White marking placements and size may also affect the looks. Special markings like a swiss kiss can also add a unique look.
To summarize the first consideration is health and genetics then desired looks. We don't get into kennel or in home facility setup, health care, and other key factors that relate to breeding practices but those may be topics in future posts. Thanks for reading!
Our Top Dogs
To make it easier to visualize each of our adults quality we have developed our Diamond rating system.
