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PAWSitively Petland ShowAuthor: Ron Solsrud
Ron, with all his Petland Iowa City experience and knowledge, discusses all sorts of pet-related topics. You'll find episodes on pet training tips, pet products, pet food reviews, breed fun facts, and more. If you're a current or soon-to-be pet owner or someone who just plain loves pets, listen in to learn the latest tips and tricks to help you and your little one have an even better life! Petland Pets Make Life Better! Language: en Genres: Kids & Family, Pets & Animals Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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The Bernese Mountain Dog: History, Temperament & Essential Care
Episode 13
Tuesday, 9 December, 2025
The Bernese Mountain Dog—affectionately known as the “Berner”—is one of the most iconic and cherished breeds in the world. Their striking tri-colored coats, calm nature, and deep loyalty make them exceptional family companions. To help owners understand this remarkable breed, we’ve gathered detailed insights from Ron Solsrud, co-proprietor of Petland Iowa City and a trusted authority in responsible pet care.A Thousand Years of Heritage: The Berner’s Swiss OriginsThe Bernese Mountain Dog comes from the farmlands of Bern, Switzerland, where it served as a versatile working dog for over a millennium. Historically, Berners worked as draft dogs, cattle herders, and property guardians throughout the rugged Alpine region.For readers interested in historical documentation, the breed’s Swiss lineage is outlined by the Swiss Kennel Club (SKG) and the international federation FCI: 🔗 External Resource: https://fci.be/en/nomenclature/BERNESE-MOUNTAIN-DOG-45.htmlModern recognition came after preservation efforts in the late 1800s, which eventually led to the breed’s export to the U.S. following World War I. Today, Berners are fully recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC): 🔗 External Resource: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/bernese-mountain-dog/Temperament: A Gentle Giant with a Devoted HeartBernese Mountain Dogs are loved for their intelligence, sensitivity, and deep loyalty. They thrive when involved in family life and are known for forming strong bonds with their people.Key Temperament TraitsHighly affectionate and family-centeredIntelligent and responsive to trainingGentle with childrenAlert but not aggressiveOften shy with strangers—making early socialization essentialIf your website has a training page or puppy-care guide, link it here as an internal source. 💡 Example internal link: 👉 How to Socialize Your Puppy https://www.petlandiowacity.com/home-training-your-dog/ Essential Care: Grooming, Diet & Exercise RequirementsBerners are large, high-maintenance dogs that require dedicated care throughout their lifetimes.Size & LifespanFemales: ~80 lbsMales: 100+ lbsLifespan: 6–9 yearsThe breed’s lifespan is influenced by genetics, orthopedic risks, and rapid growth—topics studied by veterinary institutions such as the Morris Animal Foundation: 🔗 External Resource: https://www.morrisanimalfoundation.orgExercise Needs: 90 Minutes of Activity a DayYoung Berners are energetic and benefit from a structured daily routine.Recommended Exercise:90 minutes of vigorous activity2–3 structured walks or runsMental engagement through training or puzzle toysOwners living in apartments can meet these needs with consistency and commitment.For exercise enrichment ideas: 🔗 External Resource (AKC Training & Enrichment): https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/Diet & Nutrition: Preventing Unhealthy Weight GainBecause Berners love to eat, controlled feeding is critical.Best Practices:No free-feedingMeasured portionsSplit meals into 2–3 feedingsUse high-quality large-breed food formulasFor credible nutrition guidance: 🔗 External Resource – Veterinary Partner Nutrition Articles: https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/Grooming: Managing Heavy Year-Round SheddingBerners shed constantly and may require professional grooming support.Grooming essentials:Professional Furminator treatments 3–6× yearlyRegular brushing at homeOptional summer trims to help with heatOccasional professional coat resetsVisit Petland Iowa City for Trusted ExpertiseWhether you want to meet Berners, Bernedoodles, or other pets like cats, fish, and parakeets, Ron and Wendy Solsrude welcome you to Petland Iowa City.📍 Marketplace Mall, 1851 Lower Muscatine Road, Iowa City 📞 319-351-9451Hours:Sunday: 12 PM – 6 PMMonday–Saturday: 10 AM – 9 PM
