Bernese Mountain Dog vs Chinese Shar-Pei

Working · Large vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Bernese Mountain Dog is the larger breed at 80–115 lbs (males) vs 45–60 lbs for the Chinese Shar-Pei.
  • The Chinese Shar-Pei typically lives longer (8–12 years).
  • The Chinese Shar-Pei sheds less.
  • The Bernese Mountain Dog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBernese Mountain DogChinese Shar-Pei
Group
WorkingNon-Sporting
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
SwitzerlandChina
Height (male)
25–27.5"18–20"
Height (female)
23–26"18–20"
Weight (male)
80–115 lbs45–60 lbs
Weight (female)
70–95 lbs45–60 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
7–10 years8–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)High (4/5)
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 Chinese Shar-Pei

The Chinese Shar-Pei is a loyal, calm, independent wrinkly Chinese guardian — hippopotamus-faced ancient farm and palace dog. Originally from China, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 45–60 lbs and lives 8–12 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, calm, independent.

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Bernese Mountain Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Bloat

Chinese Shar-Pei health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Skin issues
  • Allergies