The Bernese Looked Away Fast. The Bed Told the Whole Story.
The bed is a map of the afternoon. Muddy paw prints of every size cover the white and cream comforter, and in the middle of it sits a tricolor Bernese Mountain Dog with a glossy black coat, rust-colored cheeks, and white front paws that are not quite as white as they once were. He looks off to the side with a calm, dignified face, as though the view out the window were far more interesting than the evidence beneath him. A blanket, a mug, and a wooden dresser sit in the background of the tidy room.
Bernese Mountain Dogs come from the Swiss Alps, where they worked pulling carts and watching over farms. They are gentle, affectionate, and often happiest staying close to their family, which is why a Bernese will so often claim a spot on the bed. Their thick double coats need regular brushing, especially in muddy seasons, and a quick wipe of the paws at the door can save a lot of laundry. Because they are a large breed, they also benefit from steady, moderate exercise and a comfortable place to rest. Talk to your vet about what is right for your dog's age and size.
Nobody would call this a clever hiding spot, and the dog seems to know it. He is trying the oldest trick in the book, which is to look away and hope the problem disappears. The paw prints are going to need a wash, but the sweet, serious face may make that a small price.
