Activities For Great Berneses

Large, sturdy dogs like the Great Bernese have been employed as draft animals for many centuries in multiple countries. Large dogs were often hitched to carts that carried produce, passengers, milk, and even meat to the market. Due to loads that were excessively heavy for canines, fear of transmittable diseases like rabies, and practices that were dangerous to both dogs and humans, using dogs as draft animals was made illegal in many European countries. However, many breeds enjoy this type of activity when it is properly managed, and it is often helpful in improving cardiovascular health and at maintaining muscle mass. As this dog is half Bernese Mountain dog, a dog traditionally connected to canine carting, they are particularly well-suited for this activity

Most dogs enjoy toys, and they can help keep dogs busy when they can’t go outside or are immobile for some reason. Some breeds of dog prefer dog toys that they can chew on for a long time while others prefer puzzle toys that make them think to get the treat. Toys for your dog can reduce anxiety and can boost your dog's overall mood and outward disposition. Dog toys can also be a way to deal with issues like separation anxiety and boredom in such a way that you are allowed to be busy attending to other things nearby while your dog is safely occupied. 

While late night walks may not be a favorite activity for all dogs, the Great Bernese dog is generally about half Great Pyrenees, a flock guardian dog that is one of the few domesticated canines which is naturally nocturnal, along with the Tibetan Mastiff and the Anatolian Shepherd. Taking walks at night, rather than during the heat of the day, may also help this large, heavily-furred dog to remain healthy and cool during hot summer months and you are less likely to run into other canines in the event that your canine companion is not particularly friendly towards other dogs.