Bernese Mountain Dog vs Siberian Husky

Working · Large vs Working · Medium

Quick take
  • Bernese Mountain Dog is the larger breed at 80–115 lbs (males) vs 45–60 lbs for the Siberian Husky.
  • The Siberian Husky typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Siberian Husky has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Bernese Mountain Dog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBernese Mountain DogSiberian Husky
Group
WorkingWorking
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
SwitzerlandSiberia
Height (male)
25–27.5"21–23.5"
Height (female)
23–26"20–22"
Weight (male)
80–115 lbs45–60 lbs
Weight (female)
70–95 lbs35–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
7–10 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longmedium
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 Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky is a friendly, mischievous, loyal pack dog bred to pull sleds — known for blue eyes and dramatic howls. Originally from Siberia, this medium working breed typically weighs 45–60 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, outgoing, mischievous.

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Bernese Mountain Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Bloat

Siberian Husky health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Hypothyroidism