Browse ›
A tricolor Bernese Mountain Dog and a white lamb lie together in the straw of a barn corner. 15 / 24

A Bernese Mountain Dog Made Room in the Barn Straw for a Lamb

AI imagebernese mountain doglambbarn

Straw covers the floor of the barn, and in the corner a tricolor Bernese Mountain Dog lies with his chin lowered next to a lamb. Dumpling rests against his front legs with her face tipped up toward his, their noses almost touching. Old tools, ropes and wooden boards crowd the background, and a light falls through a gap in the wall. The Bernese's black, white and rust coat is lovely against the golden straw. The lamb looks small and safe beside him. A bit of straw sticks to the lamb's wool and to the dog's paw.

Berners are good-natured, strong and loyal, and in their native Switzerland they worked as farm dogs. They are usually calm and affectionate, but they are still large dogs that need training, exercise and company. They have a thick double coat and prefer cooler temperatures, so shade and fresh water are key. Barns have straw and hay, which are good bedding, but dust can irritate some dogs, so talk to your vet if there's coughing or sneezing. Make sure barns are free of nails and other hazards, since curious animals will investigate anything. A calm voice and slow movements from people nearby help the animals stay relaxed.

The barn is quiet, the straw is warm, and the corner is just right for two. Nobody has plans to leave.

More from this collection

All 24 →