As summer’s sweltering heat continues to grip, some dogs are visibly feeling the burn, and Benny, a Bernese Mountain Dog, is no exception. His recent beachside antics have gone viral, capturing the essence of summer fatigue among double-coated breeds.
In a September 9, 2024 Instagram post shared by @heradventurepaws, Benny demonstrates his frustration with the summer heat in a hilariously relatable manner for autumn enthusiasts. The video shows the Bernese pup sprawled out on the beach sand, belly-up, clearly done with the scorching weather.
The video’s caption reads: “When your human wants to take you hiking, but you have a double coat and hate the summer.” Benny’s owner elaborates, noting that the Bernese Mountain Dog’s thick double coat makes him particularly susceptible to overheating. “My dog took a nap, belly up, in the middle of the beach because he was just DONE,” the caption continues. The post explains that Benny struggles with temperatures above 20°C and can only handle shaded hikes in the summer heat.
The struggle for double-coated dogs in high temperatures is a common challenge for many pet owners. “His energy levels just plummet in the heat and I have to be very careful with him. Double-coated dog parents know the struggle,” the owner adds.
The comments section quickly filled with empathetic responses from fellow dog lovers. One user remarked, “The ‘Imma take a nap anywhere I please’ skill is on point!” Another commented, “It’s the price you pay to look this good.” A third user chimed in with encouragement, “Ohhh baby!! His favorite time of the year must be rolling up soon then.”
While Benny might be currently enduring the heat, relief is on the horizon with the arrival of cooler autumn days.
Bernese Mountain Dogs: Cold-Weather Enthusiasts
Bernese Mountain Dogs, like Benny, are naturally inclined toward colder climates. Originally bred in the Swiss Alps, their thick, tricolor double coats are designed to withstand harsh winter conditions. As a result, these dogs are most comfortable engaging in cold-weather activities and thrive in snowy environments.
Their dense coats also mean they shed continuously throughout the year, necessitating regular grooming to manage the hair. Potential owners should be prepared to groom their Bernese Mountain Dogs frequently and handle the inevitable shedding.
Despite their summer protests, Bernese Mountain Dogs are affectionate and loyal companions, making them excellent family pets. Prospective adopters should be mindful of their needs, especially concerning temperature, to ensure their furry friends remain happy and healthy throughout the year.