Spanish Mastiff vs Bernese Mountain Dog
Breed Compatibility
72% Compatible
Energy Level
Spanish Mastiff: Calm0.4
Bernese Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Spanish Mastiff: N/A
Bernese Mountain Dog: Easy Training0.8
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Spanish Mastiff: N/A
Bernese Mountain Dog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Luxury
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Spanish Mastiff3/5
Bernese Mountain Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Spanish Mastiff3/5
Bernese Mountain Dog5/5
Good with Strangers
Spanish Mastiff3/5
Bernese Mountain Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Spanish Mastiff
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Elbow dysplasia: Joint development problem
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Heart issues: Cardiac health concerns
Eye problems: Various ocular conditions
Obesity: Weight management challenges
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
Spanish Mastiff
Pros
Excellent guardian breed
Gentle with family
Patient temperament
Low exercise needs
Cons
Heavy drooling
Significant food costs
Space requirements
Health issues
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
Spanish Mastiff Fun Fact
Spanish Mastiffs were historically used in groups of five to protect sheep flocks from wolves and bears.
Bernese Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their size, Bernese Mountain Dogs were historically known as 'cheese dogs' for helping transport dairy products.
Heritage & Purpose
Spanish Mastiff
Origin:
Medieval Spain saw these mastiffs guarding livestock against wolves and bears in the Mesta system. Their impressive size and protective nature made them invaluable guardians of sheep flocks.
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
Spanish Mastiff
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Moderate exercise requirements must be met consistently. Health monitoring is essential due to size-related issues.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Regular brushing needed to manage heavy shedding. Exercise must be moderated in warm weather. Joint health supplements recommended throughout life.