Bernese Mountain Dog
Quick Summary
Gentle giants ideal for active families in cooler climates. Perfect blend of working ability and family companion. Consider space requirements and shorter lifespan.
Contents
Weight Range
70-115 lbs
♂ Male: 80-115 lbs
♀ Female: 70-95 lbs
Height Range
58-70 inches
♂ Male: 25-28"
♀ Female: 25-28"
Life Expectancy
7-10 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #84
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Working Group
Originally bred for Swiss farmers in the canton of Bern relied on these dogs for drafting, droving cattle, and guarding property during the 1800s
Popularity
#22
Very popular breed choice
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 25"-27.5" |
| Female Height | 25"-27.5" |
| Male Weight | 80-115 lbs |
| Female Weight | 70-95 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 3/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $2,000-4,000 for a puppy from reputable breeder. Monthly expenses average $150-200 for food and basic care. Annual veterinary costs typically range $500-1,000, plus emergency care.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Characterized by a calm, patient temperament with strong loyalty to family. Moderate energy levels require regular exercise, while their social nature makes them excellent family companions. Shows natural protective instincts without aggression.
Social Needs
Highly social breed requiring substantial family interaction and companionship. Generally good with other dogs and pets. Can experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
Breed Overview
Majestic and powerful, Bernese Mountain Dogs boast a striking tri-colored coat with distinctive markings. Their sturdy build and broad chest reflect their heritage as working dogs, while their gentle expression and soft brown eyes reveal their warm temperament. Standing tall with a well-balanced frame, these dogs combine strength with remarkable agility.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Gentle and patient with children
- ✓ Loyal family companion
- ✓ Good working dog capabilities
- ✓ Excellent guard dog instincts
Cons
- ✗ Short lifespan
- ✗ Heavy shedding
- ✗ Heat sensitivity
- ✗ Significant grooming needs
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Good-Natured, Calm, Strong |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Easy Training |
| Grooming Needs | 2-3 Times a Week Brushing |
| Shedding | Frequent |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise including moderate walks, hiking, and gentle play sessions. Activity intensity should be moderate, avoiding strenuous exercise in warm weather. Enjoys pulling activities that reflect their working heritage.
Diet & Nutrition
Adult Bernese Mountain Dogs require 3-4 cups of high-quality food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention needed for growth rate in puppies. Joint-supporting nutrients are essential throughout their lives.
Adult dogs need 3-4 cups of premium dog food daily, split into two meals. Protein content should be 23-25%, with added glucosamine for joint health. Puppies require special large-breed formulas to control growth rate.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Best suited for homes with large yards in cooler climates. Requires significant indoor space and outdoor access. Thrives in temperate to cold weather conditions but struggles in heat.
Requires minimum yard space of 500 square feet. Thrives in homes with large, fenced outdoor areas. While adaptable, these dogs need room to move and prefer cooler climates with outdoor access.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Developed in the Swiss canton of Bern, these versatile farm dogs worked alongside farmers for centuries. Their strength and reliability in draft work, herding, and property protection made them indispensable to Swiss mountain farmers.
Historical Purpose
Swiss farmers in the canton of Bern relied on these dogs for drafting, droving cattle, and guarding property during the 1800s. Their versatile working abilities made them invaluable.
Fun Fact
Despite their size, Bernese Mountain Dogs were historically known as 'cheese dogs' for helping transport dairy products.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular brushing needed to manage heavy shedding. Exercise must be moderated in warm weather. Joint health supplements recommended throughout life.