Labernese

The Labernese was developed by the Monteregie-based Mira Foundation, with hopes of creating a superiour guide dog for the blind, which would also be capable of assisting the physically disabled persons. The Boulab experimentation had begun as early as 1991, but it wasn't until the year 2000 that satisfying results were achieved and the official breeding programme started. The Labernois is a result of crossing the Labrador Retriever with the Bernese Mountain Dog, using only the most suitable bloodlines from Canada, America, France, England, Switzerland and Mexico. By breeding for mental soundness and reliable temperament, the developers are ensuring that the very best traits are inherited. However, due to some health problems associated with the Labrador and Bernese Mountain Dog breeds, the Mira Foundation is aware that a very careful breeding practices and selection methods are of utmost importance. It should be noted that a true Labernois is not simply a 1st generation cross and potential buyers need to know that there aren't any breeders other than the Mira Foundation.

The creators of the Labernese are trying to achieve a perfect balance between its parent breeds in terms of personality and physique. Combining the trainability of the Labrador with the loving personality of the Bernese Mountain Dog, the Labernois is a friendly, obedient, devoted, calm and intelligent breed. Taller and heavier than the Lab and more lean and agile than the Bernese, this is a strong, powerful and healthy canine.

The coat is thick and weatherproof, accepted in both the smooth and plush variants. The most common colouring is black, but yellow, bicolour and tricolour specimens can be found as well. The average height is around 26 inches.