Bernese Mountain Dog vs English Mastiff

Working · Large vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • English Mastiff is the larger breed at 160–230 lbs (males) vs 80–115 lbs for the Bernese Mountain Dog.
  • The Bernese Mountain Dog typically lives longer (7–10 years).
  • The Bernese Mountain Dog has higher daily energy needs.
  • The English Mastiff sheds less.
  • The Bernese Mountain Dog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBernese Mountain DogEnglish Mastiff
Group
WorkingWorking
Size
LargeGiant
Origin
SwitzerlandEngland
Height (male)
25–27.5"30"
Height (female)
23–26"27.5"
Weight (male)
80–115 lbs160–230 lbs
Weight (female)
70–95 lbs120–170 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
7–10 years6–10 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
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 English Mastiff

The English Mastiff is a courageous, dignified, good-natured giant — the heaviest dog breed, ancient British war hounds. Originally from England, this giant working breed typically weighs 160–230 lbs and lives 6–10 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, dignified, good-natured.

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Bernese Mountain Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Bloat

English Mastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer