Small Bernese Hound

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Small Bernese Hound, as the name suggests, is the smaller version of Bernese hound (Swiss Hound) that originated in Switzerland. Also called Small Swiss Hound, Petit Chien Courant Suisse and Schweizerischer Niederlaufhund, this breed was developed to replicate outstanding hunting abilities and striking colours of its progenitor in a smaller size. Carefully selected Bernes Hound puppies were crossed with Bassetts and the resulting puppies became the foundation stock for this breed.

The four variants that were developed have the attractive coloring of the progenitors as well as the excellent hunting and tracking skills over difficult terrain. This breed stands between 16-18 inches and weighs about 33 lbs. It has a long and slender head with a slightly arched skull and strong, rather slender muzzle. Dark nose has wide open nostrils. Slightly oval and dark eyes have a friendly expression. Supple, low set ears hang down close to the cheek. Neck is moderately long, light yet well muscled. Well constructed rectangular body comes with straight and strong back, long and strong loin, deep and broad chest and slightly tucked up belly. Medium length tail is set on low. It is carried hanging down in repose but carried upwards when the dog is excited.

The coat can be smooth or rough in texture. It always comes in black, tan and white colouring.

This breed is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by FCI.

Color

The four variants of Small Bernese Hound come in four color varieties. Small Bernese Hound comes in Black, tan and white tri coloring. White is the basic color having large black patches on the body. Tan markings are present above eyes, on cheeks and on inside and upper part of ears. Small Jura Hound, another variant of Small Bernese Hound, comes in basic black color with tan markings on cheeks, chest, above eyes and on legs. Alternatively this variety can have tan color with black mantle. White patches, not too large, are acceptable. Small Lucern Hound is predominantly white or grey-white or black-white speckled, giving a blue impression. Tan markings are present on cheeks, ears, legs and above eyes. Small Schwyz Hound has white as basic color with small or large yellowish-red or orange-red patches.

Coat

The Small Bernese Hound comes in two coat varieties; Smooth and rough. Smooth coat is short, close-fitting and finer on head and ears. Rough coat is harsh, elastic, close-fitting with slight beard and very short undercoat.

Personality

The Small Bernese Hound is a deft, independent and tireless hunter with an excellent nose. It is determined and independent in nature and often does not need human supervision when hunting. This breed is very affectionate and loving to its human family, forming strong bond with them. This is an amiable dog that will be friendly not only to its family, but with strangers and other dogs as well. This non-aggressive dog makes a very lively yet gentle playmate of children. It can tolerate rough handling by children. This breed can live in an apartment as long as the owner is ready to take this dog for walking, jogging or hiking and provide it with ample time to play in a secure area. The Small Bernese Hound is not for every owner as it is known to be of independent nature. It requires firm and confident owner who can obedience train this dog through positive and consistent training. A well trained Small Bernese Hound makes a very good family companion.

Care

Taking care of this dog's coat is very easy as the coat needs brushing once or twice a week with a bristle brush. Ears and eyes should be cleaned and checked for infection.

Training

The Small Bernese Hound is an independent dog that can hunt on its own without a human hunter. Due to its independent nature, this dog will need an experienced owner who can train this dog in a firm yet gentle manner with positive and consistent training sessions.

Activity

The dog needs fair amount of exercise to expel its energy levels. It can live in an apartment if it is provided with amply exercising opportunities. This dog will be a very good companion on jogging and hiking.