Bernese Mountain Dog vs Chihuahua

Working · Large vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Bernese Mountain Dog is the larger breed at 80–115 lbs (males) vs 6 lbs for the Chihuahua.
  • The Chihuahua typically lives longer (14–16 years).
  • The Chihuahua has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Chihuahua sheds less.
  • The Bernese Mountain Dog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBernese Mountain DogChihuahua
Group
WorkingToy
Size
LargeToy
Origin
SwitzerlandMexico
Height (male)
25–27.5"5–8"
Height (female)
23–26"5–8"
Weight (male)
80–115 lbs6 lbs
Weight (female)
70–95 lbs6 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
7–10 years14–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
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.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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.

About the Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is a graceful, charming, sassy tiny dog of Mexican origin — the world's smallest breed, big in personality. Originally from Mexico, this toy toy breed typically weighs 6 lbs and lives 14–16 years. Breeders describe them as graceful, charming, sassy.

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Bernese Mountain Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Bloat

Chihuahua health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hydrocephalus
  • Heart disease
  • Dental issues