Transcription Audio

Hello and welcome to today's episode. If you're anything like me, you want the best for your Bernese Mountain Dog. These gentle giants bring so much joy into our lives, and keeping them in prime health isn't just nice to have—it's essential for their well-being and our peace of mind. So today, I'm sharing some practical, real-world tips that have genuinely worked wonders for many Bernese owners, myself included. These magnificent dogs have unique needs, originally bred as working dogs in the Swiss Alps, which require thoughtful attention and care. So let's dive right in! First things first, let's talk about vet visits. Regular check-ups aren't just a good idea—they're non-negotiable. While annual visits are standard for most adult dogs, many veterinarians, especially those familiar with Bernese Mountain Dogs, now recommend check-ups twice a year, particularly as they age. You might wonder why this is necessary. Well, these proactive visits can catch potential problems early, saving you a lot of heartache and, often, significant dollars down the line. Think of it as preventative maintenance for your furry family member. During these visits, your vet will likely conduct comprehensive blood work to keep an eye on organ function, check for early signs of cancer—which unfortunately affects this breed more than others—and assess joint health through physical exams and possibly imaging. Many vets also recommend baseline cardiac screenings since Bernese Mountain Dogs can be prone to heart conditions. Investing in this preventative care often pays off by catching issues before they become life-threatening emergencies. Now, moving on to diet, which, in my experience, is key. A diet rich in high-quality proteins and thoughtfully low in grains can really make a difference for these dogs. When you're picking out food, always look for brands that list meat as the very first ingredient. It's also worth considering locally sourced options because they often come with transparent ingredient lists and support regional standards. Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to rapid growth as puppies, which can impact their joints, so a diet specifically formulated for large or giant breeds is crucial from the start. You might want to think about incorporating omega-3 fatty acids through fish oil supplements or fish-based proteins. These can support coat health, reduce inflammation, and potentially benefit joint function. Many experienced Bernese owners have had success with raw or freeze-dried raw diets, though these require careful planning to ensure nutritional balance. Whatever diet you choose, consistency is key—sudden changes can upset their sensitive digestive systems, so always transition foods gradually over a week to ten days. Exercise is another crucial element for a Bernese, but it's not just about the amount; it's about quality and safety. They need about 30 to 60 minutes of daily activity, but remember, they're not built for endurance like some other breeds. Instead, focus on moderate, consistent activity. Exploring local parks or dog-friendly beaches can be fantastic ways to bond and keep them healthy—just be mindful of their joints and body temperature, especially during warmer weather. Swimming is particularly excellent exercise for Bernese Mountain Dogs when it's available because it provides cardiovascular benefits without stressing their joints. Many owners find their Bernese love hiking on well-maintained trails, but it's important to build up their endurance gradually and always carry water for both of you. Interactive play sessions in the yard, like gentle fetch or tug-of-war, can provide both physical exercise and mental stimulation. Remember, puppies under 18 months should avoid repetitive high-impact activities like jogging or agility training to protect their developing joints. Keeping an eye on their weight is another game changer. Obesity is a surprisingly common issue in dogs, and it has profound impacts. Studies show that being even moderately overweight can reduce a dog's lifespan by up to two and a half years. It also significantly increases their risk for conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and even certain cancers. Use your vet's scale to track their weight regularly. A healthy Bernese should have a visible waist when viewed from above, and you should be able to easily feel their ribs without pressing hard. For Bernese Mountain Dogs, maintaining optimal weight is even more critical because of their predisposition to joint issues and shorter lifespans. Adult males typically weigh between 80 and 115 pounds, while females range from 70 to 95 pounds, but individual variation is significant. Work with your veterinarian to establish your dog's ideal weight range and monitor it monthly. If weight gain occurs, consider measuring food portions precisely rather than free-feeding, and remember that treats should make up no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake. Now, let's talk grooming. Bernese Mountain Dogs have unbelievably thick, beautiful coats that demand regular attention. Weekly brushing isn't just about reducing shedding—though that's a huge bonus—it's a fantastic opportunity to check thoroughly for any skin issues, lumps, bumps, or unwelcome parasites. It's a quiet, bonding moment that doubles as a critical health check. During shedding seasons, typically spring and fall, daily brushing becomes essential to prevent matting and reduce the amount of hair throughout your home. Invest in quality grooming tools: a slicker brush for the undercoat, a pin brush for the outer coat, and a de-shedding tool for seasonal coat blowouts. Pay special attention to areas prone to matting, such as behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail. Professional grooming every six to eight weeks can help maintain coat health and provide an expert eye for any skin concerns you might miss. Let's not forget joint health, which is a lifelong commitment. Joint issues like hip and elbow dysplasia are unfortunately quite common in Bernese Mountain Dogs due to their large size and genetic predispositions. In fact, elbow dysplasia affects nearly 20% of the breed in some studies. While the evidence for supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin is mixed, many veterinarians still recommend them, as they are generally safe and may help support cartilage health and reduce inflammation, especially in mild to moderate cases. Always consult your vet before adding any supplements to their diet to ensure it's the right fit for your dog's specific needs. Beyond supplements, consider environmental modifications to support joint health throughout their lives. Orthopedic dog beds provide crucial support for aging joints, while ramps or steps can help them access cars or furniture without jumping. Non-slip rugs on smooth floors prevent slipping and reduce joint stress. Many owners find that maintaining consistent, low-impact exercise helps keep joints mobile and muscles strong, which provides better support for the skeletal system. Physical therapy and underwater treadmill therapy are increasingly available options for dogs with diagnosed joint issues. Lastly, let's touch on dental care, which often gets overlooked despite being fundamental to overall well-being. Regular brushing at home and providing vet-approved dental chews can really help prevent plaque and tartar buildup. I had a friend whose Bernese absolutely loved locally sourced kangaroo dental chews—they were surprisingly effective and a great natural option! Poor dental hygiene can lead to far more serious health issues, so it's crucial to make it a priority. So there you have it, folks. These are some practical, proactive health tips for your Bernese Mountain Dog. Remember, these dogs give us their best every day, and they deserve our best in return. Thanks for tuning in, and until next time, take care of your four-legged friends.