Bernese Mountain Dog vs Mastiff
Working · Large vs Working · Giant
Bernese Mountain DogLarge
A good-natured, calm, strong tri-color farm dog from the Swiss Alps — gentle giants with short lifespans.
Weight: 80–115 lbsLifespan: 7–10 years
MastiffGiant
A courageous, dignified, good-natured giant — one of the most ancient breeds, formerly war dogs.
Weight: 160–230 lbsLifespan: 6–10 years
Quick take
- • 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 Mastiff sheds less.
- • The Bernese Mountain Dog is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Bernese Mountain Dog | Mastiff |
|---|---|---|
Group | Working | Working |
Size | Large | Giant |
Origin | Switzerland | England |
Height (male) | 25–27.5" | 30" |
Height (female) | 23–26" | 27.5" |
Weight (male) | 80–115 lbs | 160–230 lbs |
Weight (female) | 70–95 lbs | 120–170 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 7–10 years | 6–10 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 | long | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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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 Mastiff
The Mastiff is a courageous, dignified, good-natured giant — one of the most ancient breeds, formerly war dogs. 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
Mastiff health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Heart disease
- • Cancer