Anatolian Shepherd vs Bernese Mountain Dog

Working · Giant vs Working · Large

Quick take
  • Anatolian Shepherd is the larger breed at 110–150 lbs (males) vs 80–115 lbs for the Bernese Mountain Dog.
  • The Anatolian Shepherd typically lives longer (11–13 years).
  • The Anatolian Shepherd sheds less.
  • The Bernese Mountain Dog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAnatolian ShepherdBernese Mountain Dog
Group
WorkingWorking
Size
GiantLarge
Origin
TurkeySwitzerland
Height (male)
29"25–27.5"
Height (female)
27"23–26"
Weight (male)
110–150 lbs80–115 lbs
Weight (female)
80–120 lbs70–95 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–13 years7–10 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
mediumlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Anatolian Shepherd

The Anatolian Shepherd is a loyal, independent, reserved livestock guardian from Turkey — works alone protecting flocks from wolves. Originally from Turkey, this giant working breed typically weighs 110–150 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, independent, reserved.

About the Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a good-natured, calm, strong tri-color farm dog from the Swiss Alps — gentle giants with short lifespans. Originally from Switzerland, this large working breed typically weighs 80–115 lbs and lives 7–10 years. Breeders describe them as good-natured, calm, strong.

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Anatolian Shepherd health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Bernese Mountain Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Bloat