Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of four Swiss Sennenhund breeds, originating from the canton of Bern in the Swiss Alps.
For centuries, these impressive working dogs served farmers across the mountain valleys, herding cattle, hauling carts laden with milk and cheese, and protecting homesteads.
35-55kg
Weight
Large
Size
7-8yrs
Lifespan
About the Bernese Mountain Dog
Today, whilst their working heritage remains part of their character, Berners are cherished primarily as devoted family companions. These large, striking dogs stand 58 to 70 centimetres at the shoulder and weigh between 35 and 55 kilograms. Their most distinctive feature is their striking tricolour coat of black with rich rust and white markings. The medium-length, thick silky fur demands regular brushing, particularly during seasonal shedding periods when loose hair becomes quite considerable. Temperamentally, the Bernese Mountain Dog is renowned for being gentle, confident and deeply affectionate. They typically display remarkable patience with children and friendliness towards other dogs and strangers, though some may be initially reserved. These dogs mature slowly and often retain playful, puppy-like behaviour well into adulthood. With consistent training and early socialisation, they make wonderfully well-adjusted family pets. They require around one hour of daily exercise and generally prove easy to live with, making them an excellent choice for families seeking a loyal, good-natured large breed.
Bernese Mountain Dog at a Glance
- Group
- Working
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 35–55 kg
- Height
- 58–70 cm
- Lifespan
- 7–8 years
- Coat
- Medium
- Sheds
- Yes
- Exercise
- Up to 1 hour per day
- Origin
- Switzerland
- Colours
- Burnt Black
- Typical price
- £1500–£3000
Bernese Mountain Dog Temperament
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a gentle, confident and affectionate breed that makes a wonderful family companion. Historically a versatile farm dog capable of draught work and livestock guarding, today it is best known for its calm, good-natured temperament and deep devotion to its family. Berners are generally friendly with children, other dogs and strangers, though they can be initially reserved. They are slow to mature and may display puppy-like behaviour for several years, but they are generally self-assured and easy to live with. Early socialisation and consistent training help channel their intelligence and prevent any tendency toward over-protectiveness.
Bernese Mountain Dog Lifestyle
The Bernese Mountain Dog is best suited to a larger home and does best with a large outdoor space to burn off energy. Whether in the city or the countryside, they tend to settle well.
Dog Food for Bernese Mountain Dog
Top-rated foods for Large breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Nutrition & Diet
Bernese mountain dog is a breed of large and active dogs. That's why these dogs require a suitable diet. Dogs or large breeds need food that will provide them with all nutrients as well as an adequate level of energy. A diet that will support the health of your dog's joints is extremely important when it comes to dogs of large breeds. Bernese mountain dogs are somewhat prone to hip dysplasia, so choosing a diet enriched with glucosamine and chondroitin can be a great choice. Bernese mountain dogs are known for their huge appetite. Failing to control your dog's portions can lead to overweight or obesity. Pay attention to how many snacks and treats you’re giving your dog throughout the day.
Recommended Food for Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dog Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Bernese Mountain Dog weighing around 45 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£7.17 - £7.64
Per month
£215 - £229
Per year
£2617 - £2789
Bernese Mountain Dog Characteristics
The Bernese Mountain Dog needs at least one good run or long walk every day and trains well and tends to enjoy learning new skills. They love children and tend to get on brilliantly with them, but cope reasonably well on their own as long as they're well exercised first. The coat needs proper grooming commitment to stay in top shape and produces a surprising amount of hair for its size. They are a highly intelligent breed that needs mental stimulation as well as physical exercise.
Bernese Mountain Dog Pros & Cons
Pros
- Gentle and patient with children of all ages
- Responds well to consistent positive training
- Loyal and affectionate, adapting comfortably to family life
- Strong working instincts balanced with calm, settled home behaviour
Cons
- A shorter lifespan of around seven to eight years is something prospective owners should prepare for emotionally
- Heavy shedding with significant coat management needed during seasonal moults
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone for long periods
- Regular, sometimes professional grooming is needed to keep the coat in good condition
