The best family dog: Bernese Mountain Dog

Why I Love Bernese Mountain Dogs

Not having grown up around pets, my family was shocked when our first fur baby, Moose, was a 100 lb Bernese Mountain Dog. But in my humble opinion, the best family dog is the Bernese Mountain Dog. These gentle giants are incredibly loyal, goofy, and patient. They don’t require a ton of exercise (though mine have been super active and needy), and they are especially great with kids. Cece climbs all over Moose, and he just lets it happen with the sweetest patience. Our second fur baby, Whiskey, is a little less tolerant (we think he’s just scared), but he still loves her and lets her smother him with affection.

One of my favorite things about Bernese Mountain Dogs is their big, happy smiles. If you can get past the insane amount of hair that will cover your house, car, and clothes, then this breed might just be for you!

Clients who think the best family dog is the Bernese Mountain Dog too

That’s why I always get excited when I find clients who share the same love for these giant fluffballs. I photographed Drew and Steph’s Newport wedding a few years ago, and when I found out they got a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy AND moved to Newport, I couldn’t wait to get them in front of my camera again. Their pup, Hermann, is the best boy, and we had so much fun playing with him at Second Beach last May. He’s already the perfect big brother to his little human sibling, and I have no doubt that when their baby girl arrives this summer, she’ll be just as obsessed with him.

If you’re thinking about adding a dog to your family, I can’t recommend the Bernese Mountain Dog enough. They bring so much love, joy, and, yes, a lot of fur into your life!