Origin
Switzerland
Lifespan
6–8 years
Weight
36–55 kg
Height
58–70 cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
Tricolor (Black, White, and Rust)
Bernese Mountain Dog
About This Breed
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large dog breed, one of the four breeds of Sennenhund-type dogs from the Swiss Alps. This dog was used as a general farm dog including for driving cattle, pulling carts, and as a watchdog and loyal companion. The distinctive tricolor coat (black, white, and rust) is their trademark. Berners are known for being good-natured, calm, and devoted family dogs. They are very affectionate with children but may try to herd them.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a Bernese Mountain Dog
Origin
| Origin | Switzerland |
| Group | Working |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 36–55 kg |
| Lifespan | 6–8 years |
| Height | 58–70 cm |
| Colors & Patterns | Tricolor (Black, White, and Rust) |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Good-natured · Calm · Devoted · Faithful · Affectionate |
Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and prevent tangles.
Can shed a lot. Regular brushing can help manage loose hair.
Living together
A familiar routine can help it settle in.
Often gets along with children, but an adult should still supervise their time together.
Often gets along with other pets. Introduce them gradually rather than assuming they will be friends.
Training and activities
May learn quickly. Keep sessions varied and practice calmly around distractions.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
The big, beautiful Bernese Mountain Dog originated in Switzerland, where the breed was used as farm dogs. They were imported to the U.S. to work as farm dogs during the 1920s, but now these gentle giants are mostly family pets. The first thing you’ll notice about these dogs is how big they are—the average Bernese Mountain Dog size is 23–27.5 inches tall and 70–115 pounds. But it doesn’t take long for the breed’s sweet temperament to become just as obvious; Bernese Mountain Dogs are super-sized pups that have a big heart to match.
Care Guide
Berners (as the breed is often called) generally affectionate and patient with people and other pets. They are often calm dogs but can easily be enticed to play and need regular exercise to stay healthy. Because of their thick double coat that comes in a tricolor black, white, and tan pattern, Bernese Mountain Dogs shed heavily year-round. They need a pet parent dedicated to grooming their fur—and one that doesn’t mind extra fur on the couch, floor, and clothing.