Email: Jerry@HoneyRunAcres.com
distinguished by being the only one to have a fairly long, silky coat. The origin of
the breed is speculative at best. Some experts believe its history traces to the
Roman invasion of Switzerland, when the Roman mastiffs were crossed with
native flock-guarding dogs. The cross produced a strong dog that was able to
withstand the Alpine weather and that could serve as draft dog, flock guard,
drover, herder, and general farm dog. Despite their utility, little attempt was made
to perpetuate them as a breed purposefully. By the late 1800s, the breed was in
danger of being lost. At that time, Professor Albert Heim initiated a study of Swiss
dogs that led to the identification of the Bernese Mountain Dog as one of the
existing types. The dogs were found only in the valleys of the lower Alps. Through
Dr. Heim's efforts, these dogs were promoted throughout Switzerland and even
Europe. The finest specimens came to be found in the Durrbach area, at one
time giving the breed the name Durrbachler. With the breed's spread, the name
was changed to Burnese Mountain Dog. The first Bernese came to America in
1926; official AKC recognition was granted in 1937.
and are heavy laden and I will
give you rest
Matt. 11:28
