How to Teach a Bernese Mountain Dog Tricks
Bernese Mountain Dogs are intelligent, good-natured giants with a natural desire to please, making them excellent candidates for trick training. Their calm temperament and 4/5 trainability score mean they respond wonderfully to positive-reinforcement methods—though their gentle sensitivity requires patience and consistency. Unlike high-energy breeds, Berners don't require intense daily training sessions; instead, short, purposeful practice fits perfectly with their moderate 3/5 energy level and 60-minute daily exercise needs. Because Bernese Mountain Dogs mature slowly and can be sensitive to harsh corrections, trick training is an ideal way to build confidence, strengthen your bond, and provide mental enrichment. This guide takes you from foundational tricks like shake and roll over to advanced chain sequences, all while respecting your Berner's deliberate, thoughtful nature and avoiding the common pitfalls of leash pulling and jumping during training.
Step-by-step
- 1
Establish a Calm Training Foundation
Start with short 5–10 minute sessions in a quiet, distraction-free space, ideally after your Berner's daily exercise to channel their moderate energy positively. Use high-value treats (cheese, chicken) and a happy, encouraging tone to build confidence without overwhelming their sensitive nature. This sets the stage for success and prevents frustration from derailing progress.
- 2
Teach 'Shake' Using Luring and Capturing
Hold a treat close to your Berner's chest, slightly to the side, to naturally encourage them to lift their paw. The moment their paw touches your hand, mark the behavior with 'Yes!' or a clicker, reward immediately, and add the verbal cue 'Shake.' Repeat 5–6 times per session for 3–4 days until they reliably lift their paw on cue. Their gentle, naturally cooperative temperament means they'll catch on quickly without needing forceful handling.
- 3
Master 'Roll Over' with Sequential Building
Begin by luring your Berner into a down position, then slowly move a treat toward their shoulder to encourage them to lie on their side, rewarding each small increment. Over several sessions, gradually extend the lure to their hip until they complete a full roll. Break this into micro-steps—this breed's thoughtful nature benefits from patience, and rushing will confuse rather than motivate them.
- 4
Build 'Play Dead' or 'Bang' for Drama
Once 'Roll Over' is solid, introduce a hand gesture (pretend gun) and gently lure them into a down-and-roll, then reward heavily when they stay still for a few seconds. Bernese Mountain Dogs' calm temperament makes them naturals at this theatrical trick. Start with 2–3 seconds of stillness and gradually increase duration as their understanding deepens.
- 5
Chain Tricks Together Gradually
Once individual tricks are reliable (typically after 1–2 weeks each), begin linking them: 'Shake' → 'Roll Over' → 'Play Dead.' Practice chains only after your Berner knows each trick independently; introduce the sequence slowly and reward generously after completing the full chain. Bernese Mountain Dogs' sensitivity means they appreciate clear transitions—pause briefly between tricks and use a reset cue like 'Ready?' to refocus.
- 6
Maintain Progress with Consistent, Short Sessions
Practice 3–4 times weekly for 5–10 minutes to keep tricks sharp without causing boredom or fatigue. Given their slow maturity and moderate energy level, Berners benefit from consistency over intensity—a well-timed daily 5-minute session beats an exhausting weekly marathon. Always end on a positive note and celebrate effort, not just perfection.
Pro tips
- Train after exercise: A Bernese Mountain Dog with their 60-minute daily exercise already done is mentally sharper and more receptive; they settle faster and focus better on tricks.
- Use their sensitivity as a strength: Their good-natured, affectionate temperament means they want to please—celebrate small wins loudly, use an upbeat tone, and never rush. Confidence builds faster with encouragement than with pressure.
- Keep sessions short and playful: 5–10 minutes per session matches their moderate energy and prevents boredom. End early while interest is high, and always finish with a trick they know well for a confidence boost.
Frequently asked questions
My Bernese Mountain Dog is sensitive and shuts down when corrections happen. Should I use any negative reinforcement?+
No. Bernese Mountain Dogs are sensitive and respond best exclusively to positive reinforcement—treats, praise, play, and clicker training. Harsh corrections or frustration will damage trust and slow learning. Stick to reward-based methods, keep sessions fun, and redirect gently if they lose focus. Their good nature thrives on encouragement.
How do I prevent my Berner from jumping on me during trick training?+
Jumping is common in young Bernese Mountain Dogs despite their calm temperament. During training, ignore jumping completely (turn away, don't engage), reward all four paws on the ground, and use a consistent 'Sit' cue before starting any trick session. Redirect the energy into tricks rather than punishing—this aligns with their sensitive nature and prevents anxiety.
My Berner seems slow to learn tricks compared to other dogs. Is something wrong?+
Bernese Mountain Dogs mature slowly and are thoughtful learners—this isn't a lack of intelligence but rather their deliberate nature. They need time to process and confidence to perform. Patience and consistency matter more than speed. With their 4/5 trainability, they'll master tricks reliably once they understand; rushing creates confusion and discouragement.
Can I train my Berner's leash-pulling behavior while working on tricks?+
Yes. Incorporate loose-leash walking into your training routine using the same reward-based approach: reward walking calmly beside you, and stop moving when they pull. Use 'Shake' or another trick to refocus their attention during walks. This addresses a common Berner challenge while reinforcing positive behavior without conflict—their gentle nature responds well to consistency.