The breed takes its name from the Swiss canton of Berne, where it was developed as a draught dog, pulling carts for the weavers of that area. He was also used as a general farm dog, herding sheep and cattle and also pulling milk and cheese carts. The Bernese is one of the four Swiss mountain dogs which carry the rich black and tan colouring with white markings on the chest which some say represents the cross on the Swiss flag.

In Switzerland the breed often takes part in parades, pulling a light cart, with its owners wearing Swiss national costumes: a wonderful sight.