Bernese Mountain Dog

A Bernese Mountain Dog
Photo: FriendlyToaster, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Working Group
AKC RecognizedBest for active families
📏 Size
Extra Large
⚖️ Weight
32 - 52 kg
🕐 Lifespan
7 - 10 years
🌍 Origin
Switzerland
🐕 Shedding
Heavy
✂️ Grooming
Weekly
Energy Level
moderate
Exercise: 1–1.5 hrs a day
A guide for a healthy adult. Puppies, older dogs and flat-faced breeds in the heat need less.

Good to know

  • Swiss farm dog: bred to pull carts, drive cattle and watch over farms, many still enjoy carting and having a job to do.
  • Made for the cold: a thick, weather-resistant double coat suits them to cool climates, so watch them closely in hot weather.
  • Heavy shedder: they shed all year and more heavily in seasonal blowouts, so plan on brushing at least weekly, and daily when they shed.
  • Gentle family dog: they are typically affectionate, good-natured and patient with kids, and are happiest included in family life.
  • Slow to grow up: they mature slowly, so puppy-style energy and training needs can last longer than their size suggests.

Getting out with a Bernese Mountain Dog

Daily walks and some play keep them content. A mix of park time and easy trails suits them.

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