How to Stop a Bernese Mountain Dog From Counter Surfing
Counter surfing is a common challenge for Bernese Mountain Dogs, especially given their giant size and access to kitchen heights that smaller breeds cannot reach. Unlike more stubborn breeds, Bernese Mountain Dogs are genuinely eager to please and have solid trainability (4/5), making them excellent candidates for positive-reinforcement training. However, their slow maturity means this behavior may persist into young adulthood if not addressed early. Their calm, good-natured temperament works in your favor—they respond well to gentle corrections and reward-based methods. This guide uses only positive reinforcement to redirect their natural curiosity and food motivation into appropriate behaviors, leveraging their affectionate nature and desire to earn your approval.
Step-by-step
- 1
Remove Temptation and Manage the Environment
Clear counters of food, dishes, and enticing smells entirely—your Bernese's giant frame and long reach mean what seems out of reach isn't. Use baby gates or closed doors to restrict kitchen access during unsupervised time, making counter surfing physically impossible so you can control the learning environment.
- 2
Teach a Reliable 'Off' Command
Start in a low-distraction setting with a low object (ottoman or footstool). Place a treat on it, and when your Bernese approaches, say 'Off' clearly and immediately reward with a higher-value treat when all four paws are on the ground. Practice for 5-minute sessions, 2-3 times daily, gradually increasing difficulty by using counter-height surfaces.
- 3
Redirect to an Approved 'Place' Spot
Teach your Bernese to settle on a mat or bed in the kitchen while you prepare food. Practice 'Place' during calm times, rewarding them lavishly for staying put. During meals or food prep, send them to their spot and reward heavily with treats and praise. Their good-natured, affectionate temperament makes them love being included—they'll learn this is their job.
- 4
Use Consistent, Gentle Redirects
If your dog approaches the counter, calmly redirect to their approved spot rather than punishing. Bernese Mountain Dogs are sensitive and respond poorly to harsh corrections; gentle guidance aligns better with their temperament and builds your bond. Reward the redirect immediately with enthusiasm.
- 5
Provide Adequate Mental and Physical Exercise
Counter surfing often stems from boredom. Ensure your Bernese gets at least 60 minutes of daily exercise and mental enrichment (puzzle toys, training sessions, nose work). Their moderate energy level (3/5) is manageable, but a under-exercised giant breed may seek stimulation through unwanted behaviors.
- 6
Practice During Real-World Scenarios
Once basics are solid, practice 'Place' and 'Off' during actual mealtimes and cooking. Start with you nearby, then gradually step further away. Progress slowly—Bernese Mountain Dogs mature slowly, so consistency over weeks and months is key to cementing this behavior change.
Pro tips
- Bernese Mountain Dogs are highly food-motivated but sensitive—use their favorite treats as rewards during training, but avoid food-based punishment or withholding meals, which can harm your trust-based relationship.
- Practice 'Place' training during calm times (not just mealtimes) to build habit. Your Bernese's good-natured temperament means they genuinely want to 'do their job'—make the mat their happy place, not a punishment zone.
- Account for slow maturity: counter surfing may persist into year two or three. Stay patient and consistent; young Bernese Mountain Dogs benefit from regular, positive practice sessions rather than expecting instant results.
Frequently asked questions
My Bernese is already two years old and counter surfs constantly. Is it too late to train this behavior out?+
No. Bernese Mountain Dogs mature slowly and remain trainable well into adulthood. At two years old, your dog is still mentally maturing. Start with environmental management (clear counters, gates) and positive-reinforcement training now—consistency and patience will pay off. Many owners see improvement within 4-8 weeks.
Should I correct my Bernese when I catch them counter surfing?+
Avoid harsh corrections. Bernese Mountain Dogs are sensitive and respond poorly to punishment, which can damage your bond and cause anxiety. Instead, calmly redirect them to their 'Place' spot and reward heavily when they comply. Positive redirection is far more effective for this breed's temperament.
How much exercise does my Bernese need to reduce counter surfing?+
Aim for at least 60 minutes daily, as recommended for the breed. This can include walks, play, and mental enrichment (training, puzzle toys, scent work). A well-exercised Bernese is calmer and less likely to seek stimulation through counter surfing. Adjust based on age—puppies need shorter, frequent sessions; adults benefit from one or two substantial outings.
What should I do if my Bernese jumps at the counter while I'm cooking?+
Redirect them to their mat or 'Place' spot before they jump, using a calm, cheerful tone. Reward heavily for settling. If they jump despite redirection, pause cooking briefly, guide them away, and reset. Consistency is crucial. Never reward jumping (even with attention), as this inadvertently reinforces the behavior in this food-motivated breed.