Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) - Dog Breed Info, Temperament & Facts

There are four types of Small SwissHounds, also called Bassets or Dachbrackes, and one of them is the Small Bernese Hound. These dogs were specifically bred to hunt small animals in mountain valleys. Unlike the other Swiss Hound breeds, the Small Bernese Hound can have either wire hair or a smooth coat. While they are not hunting, they can sometimes become stubborn as they adjust to living in a family home. It is important for their owner to establish themselves as a strong leader and remind the dog that they are not in charge of the household. Despite their stubbornness, Small Bernese Hounds are generally happy and love to play.

Ahead, we look at Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound), characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and much more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound)s!

📖 Breed History

The Small Bernese Hound, originally from Switzerland, is part of a group of four smaller scent hounds. They are medium-sized dogs that were highly valued for their hunting abilities. Although there aren’t many written records from the 9th century when the breed is believed to have originated, surviving paintings from that period depict the Small Bernese Hound as leaner than it is today. For over nine hundred years, these dogs were extensively used by Swiss Alpine hunters due to their excellent sense of smell, smaller size, and ability to hunt larger game.

In the early 20th century, Switzerland established hunting preserves in different regions, which limited the size of available hunting grounds. To adapt to these smaller areas, the Small Bernese Hound was selectively bred to be even smaller. Larger hunting hounds were too big and fast for the newly designated hunting preserves. To achieve the desired size, the Small Bernese Hound was crossbred with the smaller Swiss Laufhund. This breeding practice led to the formation of the Swiss Niederlaufhund Club (SNLC) in 1905, which included the Small Bernese Hound. The breed gained popularity throughout the 1930s and was hailed as one of the greatest hunting dogs in the world.

Today, the Small Bernese Hound is primarily found in the Swiss Alps and surrounding cities. Their limited range and relatively low population make them a rare breed.

🐕 Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) Appearance

A medium-sized hound with either wire-haired or short hair, the Small Bernese Hound is. The wire-haired breed has an unforgiving coat that lacks an undercoat. They do have sparse eyebrows and a little beard, giving them an aged appearance. The short-haired variant has a short, silky coat and an undercoat that is significantly denser. Only tri-color is offered for both kinds. The basic color or body of a tri-colored dog is white, with large black spots, and tan markings on the chest, face, and eyebrows. Small brown marks are permitted on their legs and around their anus if they are entered in exhibitions. Instead of black specks, they might have a black mantle. Under the black coat, their skin is marooned, and underneath the white coat, it is colored black. They have long, thin ears that are positioned low on their heads and further back. Their wide, black nose is always present. Dark brown eyes and an upbeat, joyful demeanor characterize the Small Bernese Hound.

⚡ Fun Fact:

🐶 Traits & Temperament of Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound)

Many refer to the Small Bernese Hound as a wild dog. They are devoted, joyful canines who make wonderful family pets. Given their strong hunting drive, they do require a strong leader in the family. To make sure they fit in properly inside a family environment, early socialization and training are necessary. Apartments and houses with little yards should not be home to the little Bernese Hound. They are a loud breed that, if left alone for too long, may easily develop into a nuisance barker. These dogs do require a substantial amount of activity to remain content and healthy. To avoid any harmful behavior, give them a ton of toys to keep them occupied when you aren’t around. The Small Bernese Hound gets along nicely with kids and will play with them for hours in the backyard. They enjoy being around other dogs as well, although they do require time outs if they are overstimulated. Being a scent hound, they might not enjoy keeping ferrets, rabbits, or guinea pigs as pets. Additionally, they are uneasy with strangers and will seem distant.

🤝 Are Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound)s Friendly or Aggressive?

🐩 Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) Care & Maintenance

A small amount of grooming is not necessary for the Small Bernese Hound. The short-haired species will shed little seasonally when their undercoat loosens and comes out, however the wire-haired version does not shed much since there is no undercoat. Use a slicker brush or a brush with natural bristles while grooming. The wire-haired species needs a metal comb to comb out their beard and remove any food residue or debris. To maintain their coat healthy, give them a once-weekly grooming. Avoid over-bathing and using abrasive shampoo on the Small Bernese Hound since they are susceptible to skin allergies. Use a shampoo designed for wire coatings while bathing the wire-coated kind. Only bathe them when necessary, maybe once every few months, and make sure to properly rinse them with warm water afterward. They do have hanging ears, and you should clean them every week. Dry them off gently after cleaning to prevent moisture from becoming trapped. Every several weeks, their toenails will need to be cut.

🍖 Food: We recommend 2.3 cups daily, costing you about $1.20 – $1.40 daily, or roughly $34.00 – $45.00 a month.

🐾 Exercise:

This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 10 miles per week, which equates to about 60 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.

Did you know:

❤️‍🩹 Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) Health & Issues

Some of the major concerns for Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) Dog Breed can be:

• Patellar Luxation
• Skin Allergies

While minor concerns include:

• Ear Infections
• Elbow Dysplasia

🤧 Important: Is Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) hypoallergenic? .

✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound).

⚡ Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) Dog Breed Facts

What makes the Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) a great choice for families with young children?
The Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) is a great choice for families with young children because they are loving, happy-go-lucky dogs and make great family companions. They enjoy playing for hours in the backyard with children.

Is the Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
No, the Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) is not considered a suitable breed for apartment living. They require a significant amount of exercise and can become a nuisance barker if left alone for too long.

How much exercise does a Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) require compared to other breeds?
The Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) requires a good amount of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Compared to other breeds, they have a moderate exercise requirement.

Is the Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) breed known for being good with other pets?
The Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) generally does well with other dogs but may need timeouts when they become overly stimulated. However, they may not get along with small pets such as ferrets, rabbits, or guinea pigs due to their hunting instinct.

What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound)?
Other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) include the Basset Hound and Dachshund. These breeds also have a similar appearance and temperament.

What are the common health issues that Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound)s are prone to?
Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound)s are prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, ear infections, and obesity. Regular vet check-ups and proper care can help prevent or manage these issues.

Are Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound)s known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound)s can be a bit stubborn and independent, so they may require consistent and patient training. However, with early socialization and training, they can learn well and fit within a family home.

Are Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound)s more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound)s can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. They thrive when they have a strong leader and plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.

Are there any dog breeds similar to the Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) that are suitable for people with allergies?
There are dog breeds similar to the Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) that are suitable for people with allergies. Some examples include the Bichon Frise, Poodle, and Portuguese Water Dog, which are known to be hypoallergenic.

What sizes of dogs similar to the Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) are best for individuals or families with limited space?
For individuals or families with limited space, smaller sizes of dogs similar to the Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) would be more suitable. Breeds like the Basset Hound or Dachshund are smaller in size and require less space.

Is the Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) breed can be good with children with special needs, as they are generally loving and gentle. However, it is important to supervise interactions and ensure proper training and socialization.

How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound)?
The grooming needs of the Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) are moderate. They have either a wire hair or smooth coat, which requires regular brushing to prevent matting. They are moderate shedders compared to some other breeds.

We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Berner Laufhund (Small Bernese Hound) dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.