Size
The Bernese Mountain Dog stands 23-28 inches (58-70 cm) at the withers. Breed standards normally don't specify weight, but the usual range is 65-120 lbs. The male Bernese mountain dog is normally larger in size than the female, but both genders are extremely strong.
Coat and Color
The breed is instantly recognized by its distinctive tri-color pattern: body, neck, legs, head, and ears are solid black. Cheeks, stockings, and thumb prints (or ghost eyes) are rust or tan. Toes, chest, muzzle, tail tip and blaze between the eyes are white.
The pattern is rigid and varies only slightly in the amount of white. A perfectly-marked individual gives the impression of a white “Swiss cross” on the chest, when viewed from the front in sitting position. The eyes are an expressive dark brown and are almond shaped.
Grooming
The Bernese coat is slightly rough in outline, but not at all harsh in texture. The undercoat is fairly dense and the outer coat is quite dirt and weather resistant. A good brushing every week or two is sufficient to keep it in fine shape, except when the undercoat is being shed. Then daily combing is in order for the duration of the molt. Bernese Mountain Dogs shed year-round, and drifts of fur are to be expected.