Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Bernese Mountain Dog
Breed Compatibility
89% Compatible
Energy Level
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Bernese Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Agreeable0.6
Bernese Mountain Dog: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Bernese Mountain Dog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Luxury
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Bernese Mountain Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog3/5
Bernese Mountain Dog5/5
Good with Strangers
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Bernese Mountain Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Bloat: Serious digestive emergency
Eye Problems: Various hereditary issues
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Splenic Torsion: Emergency condition
Bernese Mountain Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development problem
Cancer: Higher than average risk
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Pros & Cons Comparison
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Pros
Loyal and devoted to family
Excellent watchdog capabilities
Good with children
Strong and athletic
Low grooming needs
Cons
Heavy shedding seasonally
Not apartment-friendly
Can be stubborn
Expensive to feed
Short lifespan
Bernese Mountain Dog
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
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their massive size, these gentle giants were known as 'poor man's horse' in Swiss farming communities.
Bernese Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their size, Bernese Mountain Dogs were historically known as 'cheese dogs' for helping transport dairy products.
Heritage & Purpose
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Origin:
Swiss farmers utilized these dogs in the Alps during the 1800s for drafting, herding, and guarding livestock. Their strength and versatility made them invaluable working companions.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Origin:
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.
Special Considerations
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Needs early socialization and training. Regular exercise essential. Watch for signs of bloat and joint issues. Climate sensitivity in hot weather requires monitoring.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Regular brushing needed to manage heavy shedding. Exercise must be moderated in warm weather. Joint health supplements recommended throughout life.