Bernese, << bur NEEZ, >> mountain dog is a long-haired dog. It weighs from 50 to 75 pounds (23 to 34 kilograms), and measures from 21 to 27 inches (53 to 69 centimeters) tall at the shoulder. Bernese mountain dogs are jet black with white chests and feet, and have rich brown markings on their legs and face. They are hardy and faithful, and make excellent pets. Their ancestors were brought to Switzerland by invading Roman soldiers more than 2,000 years ago. Until about 1910, the dogs were almost unknown outside of Bern, Switzerland, where basket weavers used them to pull small wagons.
