Thank you for visiting the HMBMDC website for information about the Bernese Mountain Dog. We have compiled some information which should help you decide if the Bernese Mountain Dog is right for you, and if so, get you started in finding the right puppy. Bernese Mountain Dogs have developed their wonderful qualities due to years of careful, selective breeding by dedicated, knowledgeable breeders.

A responsible breeder will be available to you for the life of your dog. Unfortunately, Bernese have found their way into the hands of exploiters-brokers, pet stores, backyard breeders, and/or middlemen. These individuals or organizations have one goal in mind, the almighty dollar. They breed for greed with no regard for health, temperament, or the physical characteristics that make a Bernese Mountain Dog. And the commitment to the puppies they breed end, when your money is in their hands. Please take the time to review the following information and decide if the Bernese Mountain Dog is for you. The HMBMDC Breed Education Committee is available to help answer questions about the breed, and facilitate the search for a responsible breeder.

Before deciding on a Bernese Mountain Dog ... Read books on the breed. Know the breed characteristics; will they fit into your home situation and lifestyle? Consider size, training needs, breed personality, grooming, cost of care and feeding, health problems and the potential expense if your dog develops one or more of the health issues common in this breed. See The Puppy Buyers Guide, Introduction and Find Out, Is the Bernese Mountain Dog Right for You?

Then…
Meet a Bernese Mountain Dog in person and talk with their owners! A great place to do this is at a dog show, see infodog.com for a schedule of upcoming shows, or at HMBMDC events. Always be courteous to exhibitors. Ask if it is a good time to talk, and also ask before petting a dog. Exhibitors have invested a lot of time preparing their dog for two minutes with the judge, and may also be observing requested ringprocedure in the breed or dogs ahead of their own.

Begin your search for a responsible breeder. See Things Breeders Do and What Conscientious Breeders Believe.

Investigate the genetic background of a litter (a four generation pedigree that lists health clearances is best), meet the dam, the sire may or may not be available to meet in person, but photos and thorough knowledge of temperament and health history should be available.

Observe the conditions under which the puppies are raised. Inquire about the puppies' early experiences, what type of early handling and socialization did they receive? Never accept a puppy less than seven weeks old. This is too young for a puppy to be taken from it’s mother and littermates, and is against the law in the State of Michigan.

Thoroughly understand all the terms of the sales contract offered by the breeder. See the Importance of a Contract, for insights on common contract clauses.

Do not be afraid to ask questions. Feel comfortable with the breeder...you may need his/her help or advice at a later date. This should be the beginning of a relationship for the life of your dog.

Do not be in a hurry. If you truly want the right puppy, it may be a while before one is available. It will be worth the wait!

We feel the Bernese Mountain Dog is a wonderful breed, but it is not for everyone. Once you get to know the breed, we hope you will understand and share our concern for it’s welfare and future. Again, the HMBMDC Breed Education Committee is available to help answer your questions and help you begin your search for a responsible breeder. Contact information