Bernese Mountain Dog: health conditions to watch
Bernese Mountain Dogs are gentle, affectionate giants. Their size brings joint considerations, and the breed carries a notably raised cancer risk, so early awareness and a healthy weight matter a great deal.
What to watch in a Bernese Mountain Dog
A predisposition is a “worth knowing”, not a diagnosis. Most Bernese Mountain Dogs never develop these — but knowing the early signs means you can act early.
Cancer (General)
Learn about Cancer (General) →Berners have one of the higher lifetime cancer risks among breeds, including aggressive cancers in middle age; get any new lump, persistent lameness or unexplained decline checked promptly.
Join the Cancer (General) community →Hip Dysplasia
Learn about Hip Dysplasia →A recognised breed risk in this large build; hip-scored parents help, and early signs are worth acting on.
Osteoarthritis
Learn about Osteoarthritis →Arthritis is common with age, often following joint disease; watch for stiffness and slowing down, and keep them lean.
Join the Osteoarthritis community →Cruciate Ligament Disease
Learn about Cruciate Ligament Disease →Knee ligament rupture is common in large, heavy dogs; sudden hindlimb lameness is the classic sign.
Join the Cruciate Ligament Disease community →Start here
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Looking after a Bernese Mountain Dog
- Buy from hip- and elbow-scored parents
- Get new lumps and persistent lameness checked early
- Keep them lean to protect the joints
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