Bernese Mountain Dog Walker in Wrexham

Berners are medium energy on our list, needing around 60 minutes a day. They do not want to race about, but they do want to get out and see the world.

A 45 minute walk at a gentle pace covers most of that. We pay more attention to how they are moving than to how far we get, especially as they get older.

Flat, easy ground is best. The Clywedog Trail is flat and mostly surfaced, so it suits a slow pace, and we can pick a short stretch near Nant Mill or Bersham.

Erddig, a National Trust estate, has waymarked routes, but owners should check the signs on the day for dog rules. In Rossett, the River Alyn lanes give a quieter, unhurried walk close to home.

Solo dog walks are our usual suggestion for a Berner. For £20 they get 45 minutes with one walker at a pace that suits them, rather than keeping up with a group.

If you are away, dog sitting in your own home (£55 a night for an overnight stay) keeps a big dog in familiar surroundings. The pet taxi, at £11 a trip, can help with groomer and vet runs.

Heat is the big concern. Berners are heat-sensitive, so on warm days we walk early or late, keep to shade where we can and carry water.

We also keep the pace slow. They are not built for long fast walks, and pushing them does more harm than good. At the meet and greet, tell us about any joint or mobility worries so we can plan the right route and length.