Bernese Mountain Dog vs Rottweiler

Working · Large vs Working · Large

Quick take
  • Rottweiler is the larger breed at 95–135 lbs (males) vs 80–115 lbs for the Bernese Mountain Dog.
  • The Rottweiler typically lives longer (9–10 years).
  • The Rottweiler has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Rottweiler sheds less.
  • The Rottweiler is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBernese Mountain DogRottweiler
Group
WorkingWorking
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
SwitzerlandGermany
Height (male)
25–27.5"24–27"
Height (female)
23–26"22–25"
Weight (male)
80–115 lbs95–135 lbs
Weight (female)
70–95 lbs80–100 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
7–10 years9–10 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
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)High (4/5)
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)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
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 Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is a loyal, loving, confident guardian — descendant of Roman drover dogs, requires firm training. Originally from Germany, this large working breed typically weighs 95–135 lbs and lives 9–10 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, loving, confident guardian.

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Bernese Mountain Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Bloat

Rottweiler health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Cancer
  • Bloat