Bernese Mountain Dog vs French Bulldog

Working · Large vs Non-Sporting · Small

Quick take
  • Bernese Mountain Dog is the larger breed at 80–115 lbs (males) vs 20–28 lbs for the French Bulldog.
  • The French Bulldog typically lives longer (10–12 years).
  • The Bernese Mountain Dog has higher daily energy needs.
  • The French Bulldog sheds less.
  • The Bernese Mountain Dog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBernese Mountain DogFrench Bulldog
Group
WorkingNon-Sporting
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
SwitzerlandFrance
Height (male)
25–27.5"11–13"
Height (female)
23–26"11–13"
Weight (male)
80–115 lbs20–28 lbs
Weight (female)
70–95 lbs16–24 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
7–10 years10–12 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)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
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 French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is a compact, muscular, bat-eared companion bred for city living and apartment life. Originally from France, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 20–28 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as adaptable, playful, smart.

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Bernese Mountain Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Bloat

French Bulldog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Allergies
  • IVDD