Bernese Mountain Dog vs Tibetan Mastiff

Working · Large vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Tibetan Mastiff is the larger breed at 90–150 lbs (males) vs 80–115 lbs for the Bernese Mountain Dog.
  • The Tibetan Mastiff typically lives longer (10–12 years).
  • The Bernese Mountain Dog has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Tibetan Mastiff sheds less.
  • The Bernese Mountain Dog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBernese Mountain DogTibetan Mastiff
Group
WorkingWorking
Size
LargeGiant
Origin
SwitzerlandTibet
Height (male)
25–27.5"26"
Height (female)
23–26"24"
Weight (male)
80–115 lbs90–150 lbs
Weight (female)
70–95 lbs70–120 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)Low (2/5)
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)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
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)Very Low (1/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

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 Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff is an aloof, intelligent, ancient Himalayan livestock guardian — the lion-maned protector of monasteries. Originally from Tibet, this giant working breed typically weighs 90–150 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as aloof, intelligent, independent.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Bernese Mountain Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Bloat

Tibetan Mastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Eye disorders