BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG HEALTH
Knowing the risks helps us care better.
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large breed that deserves special attention to joints, growth, body weight, genetics, temperature and veterinary follow-up. No breeder can guarantee perfect health, but informed testing and responsible selection can help reduce risk.
Health issues worth knowing
Hip and elbow dysplasia
Orthopedic evaluation of breeding dogs helps document joint status. In young dogs, weight, growth and avoiding inappropriate loading also matter.
Degenerative myelopathy (DM)
An inherited neurological disease associated, among other factors, with SOD1 variants. Genetic testing is a breeding tool and should be interpreted in the context of the whole dog and mating.
Gastric dilatation-volvulus
This can progress rapidly and is a veterinary emergency. Abdominal distension, unproductive retching, restlessness or weakness require immediate attention.
Cancer
Cancer is an important concern in the breed. Persistent masses, unexplained weight loss, fatigue or changes should be assessed by a veterinarian.
Eye conditions
Cataracts, entropion and other conditions may occur. Veterinary and, when appropriate, ophthalmic evaluation can help detect problems.
Thyroid, skin and immune conditions
Endocrine, dermatologic and some immune-mediated conditions may occur and require individual veterinary assessment.
Tests and records we can already document at Grancos
These examples are not guarantees for future litters; they show the type of information used to understand individual dogs and their lines.
VINCENT VEGA CANIS ADMIRABILIS
Berner-Garde lists DM SOD1-A N/N (Clear) and DM SOD1-B N/N (Clear).
PARVATI (BARRO)
Berner-Garde shows PPG certifications for DM SOD1-A Clear and DM SOD1-B Clear dated August 30, 2021.
RUFINA HATHOR (BARRO)
Berner-Garde shows PPG certifications for DM SOD1-A Clear and DM SOD1-B Clear dated August 30, 2021.
MAAT (BARRO)
FCM records visible in Berner-Garde: hips HD A and elbows ED 1, certified March 26, 2021.
ALPENBLISS LAURENCE
Berner-Garde lists vWD Clear, DM SOD1-A Carrier, Hyperuricosuria Clear/Normal, hips HD A and Moderate Dysplasia in elbows.
How to interpret these results
- A Clear genetic result does not mean the dog is free of every possible disease.
- Carrier does not automatically mean an affected dog; it is relevant information for responsible mating decisions.
- Hip and elbow grades must be interpreted according to the issuing system and organization.
- Breeding decisions should consider health, pedigree, relationship, temperament, structure and family history together.
Growth and joints
- Maintain appropriate body weight.
- Avoid overfeeding and excessively rapid growth.
- Adapt exercise to age and physical condition.
- Avoid repetitive jumping, unnecessary impact and very slippery surfaces.
- Seek veterinary advice for persistent lameness or gait changes.
Bernese Mountain Dogs and heat
Their double coat and size make heat management especially important. Avoid intense exercise during the hottest hours, provide shade and fresh water, and watch for signs of overheating.
GDV: do not wait
A distended abdomen, pain, restlessness, heavy drooling, repeated unproductive retching, weakness or collapse require emergency veterinary care.
Everyday care
- Routine veterinary examinations.
- Vaccination and parasite prevention as advised by a veterinarian.
- Healthy body weight and age-appropriate nutrition.
- Regular exercise adapted to climate.
- Regular coat, skin, eye, ear, dental and nail care.
- Early assessment of masses, pain, lameness, appetite changes or persistent fatigue.
Responsible veterinary information
This content is educational and does not replace veterinary consultation, diagnosis or treatment. Seek veterinary care for symptoms, significant changes or emergencies.
Health also begins with selection
See how health, genetics, temperament, structure and pedigree are integrated into our breeding philosophy.
Grancos experience since 2000
Grancos is a family project devoted to Bernese Mountain Dogs in Mexico since 2000. We share information based on our real-life and breeding experience while clearly separating that experience from technical information that requires veterinary or official sources.
Selective breeding
Breeding decisions consider health, temperament, structure, welfare and compatibility with families.
Real-life experience
More than two decades living with Bernese Mountain Dogs gives us practical experience without presenting opinion as medical fact.
Identifiable sources
Breed-standard information links to the FCI; health content identifies veterinary sources and recommends professional assessment.
Direct contact
Families can contact Grancos at info@grancos.com about the project, litters and application process.
