In 1948 there was a significant outcrossing to a Newfoundland dog, with a resulting improvement in temperament and increase in size. Berners are known to have first come to America in 1926, and possibly even earlier, but the breed was not recognized by the AKC even after intervention by the Swiss Kennel Club. By the 1960s, a small group of loyal Berner owners and breeders was developing in the United States. During 1994 there were 1594 Berners registered with the AKC, making the breed the 68th most popular out of 137 AKC-recognized breeds. These are structural defects in the joints that can cause mild to crippling arthritis.
Dysplasia is inherited, but many genes are involved.
X-rays of mature dogs are the definitive way to diagnose dysplasia. Because both hip and elbow dysplasias often are not apparent at birth but develop over time, mild or moderate dysplasia often cannot be diagnosed in young dogs. Dogs found to be free of dysplasia are issued a certificate and a registration number. Of all the breeds evaluated by the OFA, Bernese have the eighth highest incidence of hip dysplasia. Hip surgery is usually more successful than elbow surgery.