7 Special Tips for Taking Care of Bernese Mountain Dog Puppies
The Bernes Mountain dog is one of the most beautiful of all breeds. The unique colors and markings make this dog exceptionally adorable and they have a lot to offer for a family due to their warm, friendly and sweet dispositions. The breed is from the working breed category, and although this is not an extremely active dog, he will require some exercise to keep him happy, healthy, and active. The Bernes Mountain dog is a very ancient breed, so not much is known on its origin, however, we do know a lot about the breed that it has evolved to be today, and how to care for them so that they can live as long of a healthy life as possible. Caring for your Bernese Mountain dog starts with puppyhood and we have some tips for you in how to care for them. Keep reading to learn seven special tips for taking care of Bernese Mountain puppies.
1. Puppy proof
Your puppy will be curious. It’s a new world and everything is exciting to them. They will want to investigate every inch of their new home and although you want them to learn, going off on their own in a new environment can lead to trouble. Like you would do for a toddler, you will want to puppy-proof your home to help ensure your puppy is safe. Go through the house and put things away that you do not want your puppy to be able to get into. Chemicals and other dangerous products should be stored in a safe place, as well as you will want to baby-gate off areas you don’t want your puppy to get to at all.
2. Start leash training early
Training is an essential element to raising a Bernese Mountain dog. This is a large breed and they tend to want to pull rather than follow or walk along side, so start leash training as soon as possible. They are trainable and will learn to walk with you as a companion, with you as the pack leader, but the longer you wait, the more of a challenge it will be to break their bad habit.
3. Socialize your pup
Socializing any dog is critical to getting your dog accustomed to being in all kinds of environments, around a diverse group of people, from children to the elderly. It also helps to get them used to being groomed, being in a veterinarian’s office, riding in a car, being around other pets and animals, and other social skills. Starting to socialize your puppy early makes it easier than whey they are older and will help them grow into well-behaved adult dogs.
4. Learn who your vets are close-by
You will want to have the names and numbers of the veterinarians you will use before, or as soon as you bring your puppy home. The last thing you want to have happen, is to need a vet and don’t know who is around you or where you will take your puppy if you need a doctor. Investigate both, a regular veterinarian and an emergency vet who are close by and keep their numbers on-hand.
5. Vet checks
Now that you have a veterinarian in mind, be sure to contact them and schedule an appointment to get a check-up and find out the puppy vaccination schedule. Having routine vet checks as they grow, and keeping up with the puppy vaccinations, will help to keep your puppy healthy.
6. Exercise your puppy
Your puppy will have a lot of energy and need a way of getting that energy out. Exercise is essential to keeping your puppy happy and healthy, and it will help deflect his mind into wanting to get into mischief. A fenced in yard is free exercise that your puppy will enjoy. If you have a fenced in yard, just be sure the open area is safe for him to romp and play. Decking, steps, and water are all potential hazards, so be sure your puppy is not in danger of getting injured. Make sure the fencing is sturdy and free of areas he can escape the yard, and keep tools or other objects that your puppy can get into, out of his reach.
7. Diet and nutrition
Diet and nutrition are important parts of keeping your Bernese Mountain puppy happy and healthy. Starting a nutritious diet from the start, is one way to help your puppy grow into a healthy adult dog. Talk to your breeder about the diet they have your puppy on when you bring him home. If you want to change the type of food to a different brand, you can talk to your vet to find out other options that will meet your puppy’s nutritional requirements along with other tips on feedings ass your puppy grows and matures.
