I'm considering getting a Bernese Mountain Dog in the future (interested in a few different breeds but really like Berners) and would be curious to know some general tips about them.

What would some of you consider important things to consider for an owner looking at making one of these dogs their pet?

A large place for them to run and play is a must. Bernese dogs need lots of exercise to keep healthy.

Room to roam is important, but you also need to be ready to train the dog to accept grooming, which can require the patience of Job with frisky pups

I want to clarify my last post on exercising your bernese dog. This breed of dog is not necessarily a dog that runs much. A long walk is better for them or even pulling children in a wagon.

I would have to say a person would need to be willing to have a dog of that size in the house. It's not recommended to leave Bernese dogs outside by themselves for long periods of time. This breed of dog is very gentle and need lots of love and companionship.

I would definitely be able to take the dog on long walks so that's not a big deal (but good to know). How are Berner's with being left along for a few hours at a time? I'm not thinking when they're puppies because I believe almost all pups need a lot of companionship but when they're adults are they okay just sleeping while I go to work?

As with any puppy, be ready to find a shoe or magazine or a tv remote in our case, chewed beyond recognition! We learned really quick about making the house "puppy proof". I would suggest a training class. We did the one at Pet Smart, think it was $89.00. Its once a week for about 8 weeks, and well worth it. Riley will be three this summer, and he is all about napping while we are at work!

That's good to know. I really think training any dog is a good idea so I'd be sure to take the puppy to some type of program. It really ends up paying off later and it's completely worth the time.

Wow! That was quite a list. Now I know what things I need to consider if I want to own a Bernese mountain dog in the future (my kids are begging for one!).

Thanks, everyone! And please keep the ball rolling so that future dog owners like me will know more about this breed.

How about a sort of Pro and Con list? Definite pros are the fact that berners are very friendly, loyal, and obedient (not to mention cuddly, cute, and large), and the cons I can think of are the fact that they need more exercise and health care (concerning their bones and such) than some other dogs.