From the ArcaMax Publishing, Cats & Dogs Newsletter:
http://www.arcamax.com/news/catsanddogs/s-177148-676429
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a versatile breed of farm dog originating
in the canton of Berne in Switzerland. A tri-colored dog of large
size, the "Berner" stands 23 to 27.5 inches at the withers and weighs
in between 80 to 130 pounds.
Affectionate, loyal, faithful, stable and intelligent, Berners make
wonderful family pets as they get along well with other pets. They are
very trainable provided the owner is patient and consistent. Berners
are outdoor dogs at heart.
Though well-behaved in the house, they need activity and exercise,
but don't have a great deal of endurance. They enjoy hiking and
generally stick close to their people. Although slow to mature, the
Bernese do not live particularly long. As the Swiss put it, "three
years a young dog, three years a good dog, and three years an old
dog." Still, for those who love them, it's a time they wouldn't trade
for twice that with another breed.