Bernese Mountain Dogs—affectionately known as Berners—are big, fluffy, and full of love. With their striking tri-color coats and affectionate personalities, it’s no surprise that these gentle giants have won over dog lovers worldwide. But are they a good fit for the average pet owner? If you’re considering bringing one into your home, there are a few important factors to weigh.
Berners are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and sweet nature, but they also come with unique needs that may not suit every lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about their temperament, exercise needs, grooming, health, and whether they’re the right fit for your family.
Bernese Mountain Dog Personality & Temperament
One of the biggest reasons people fall in love with Berners is their temperament. These dogs are affectionate, loyal, and love being part of the family. They often form strong bonds with their humans and thrive in homes where they can be included in daily activities.
Great with Families and Kids
Berners are known for their patience and gentle nature, making them fantastic companions for children. They’re rarely aggressive and have a natural protective instinct, which means they’ll often keep a watchful eye over their little humans.
Social but Sensitive
These dogs love to be around their people and do not do well when left alone for long periods. If you’re away at work all day without someone at home, a Berner may develop separation anxiety, leading to destructive behaviors.
Friendly but Not Too Independent
Unlike some working breeds, Berners aren’t overly independent or stubborn. They love to please their owners and respond well to training, but they also need a lot of affection and companionship to be happy.
Size, Space, and Exercise Needs
Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, powerful animals. Males can weigh between 80-115 lbs, while females typically range from 70-95 lbs. Their size alone means they’re not an ideal fit for every home.
Space Requirements
While they can adapt to different living situations, they do best in homes with plenty of space to move around. A large yard is ideal, but regular walks and exercise can also help them thrive in slightly smaller spaces.
Exercise Needs
Despite their size, Berners are not high-energy dogs. They do enjoy daily walks, outdoor playtime, and light hiking, but they don’t require as much exercise as some other working breeds.
Are They Good for Apartment Living?
While it’s not impossible, apartment living isn’t ideal for Berners. They need room to stretch out and may feel confined in a small space. If you live in an apartment, be prepared for multiple daily walks and a strong commitment to mental stimulation.
Do They Handle Cold Weather Well?
Absolutely! Berners were bred for cold Swiss mountain climates and thrive in cooler weather. However, they can struggle in hot climates due to their thick coats. If you live in a warm area, you’ll need to provide plenty of shade, air conditioning, and avoid strenuous activity during peak heat hours.
Grooming & Shedding
If you’re thinking about bringing a Bernese Mountain Dog into your life, be prepared for shedding. A lot of shedding.
Heavy Shedders
Berners have a thick double coat that sheds year-round, with heavy shedding in the spring and fall. Regular brushing is essential to keep their coat healthy and reduce the amount of hair floating around your home.
Brushing & Grooming
Aim to brush your Berner at least 2-3 times a week, and daily during shedding seasons. A good undercoat rake or de-shedding tool will help manage loose fur.
Are They Droolers?
Berners aren’t excessive droolers, but they do tend to carry dirt, snow, and leaves in their fur, so expect a little extra mess around the house.
Health Considerations & Lifespan
One of the biggest downsides to Bernese Mountain Dogs is their short lifespan. These lovable dogs typically live only 7-10 years, with many facing serious health challenges.
Common Health Issues
Berners are prone to several genetic conditions, including:
- Hip & elbow dysplasia – Common in large breeds, leading to arthritis.
- Cancer – Unfortunately, Berners have one of the highest cancer rates among dogs.
- Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus) – A life-threatening condition requiring immediate emergency care.
- Joint issues & obesity – Due to their large size, they need careful weight management to avoid stress on their joints.
Vet Care is a Must!
Regular check-ups, joint supplements, and proper diet can help improve their quality of life. If you’re considering a Berner, make sure you’re prepared for potential vet expenses and the emotional difficulty of their short lifespan.
Training & Intelligence
Bernese Mountain Dogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train.
Positive Reinforcement Works Best
They respond well to gentle, consistent training with positive reinforcement. Harsh methods can damage their trust, so patience and encouragement are key.
Socialization is Crucial
Exposing your Berner to new people, places, and animals early on will help them grow into a well-adjusted and confident dog.
A Stubborn Streak?
While they generally want to please, some Berners can have a stubborn side. Training should be firm but kind, with plenty of treats and praise.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Get a Bernese Mountain Dog?
Not every home is the right fit for a Berner. Here’s a quick guide:
Great for: ✅ Families with space and time for a large, affectionate dog.
✅ Owners who enjoy brushing and don’t mind shedding.
✅ People who want a gentle, loyal companion.
✅ Homes in cooler climates.
Not ideal for: ❌ People who work long hours away from home.
❌ Small apartments (unless they receive plenty of exercise).
❌ Those looking for a low-maintenance dog.
❌ Anyone unprepared for potential health issues and a shorter lifespan.
Conclusion
So, are Bernese Mountain Dogs good pets? Absolutely—but only for the right home. They are loyal, affectionate, and great with families, but they require space, companionship, and regular grooming.
If you’re looking for a long-lived, low-maintenance dog, a Berner might not be the best fit. However, if you’re ready for the commitment, these big-hearted dogs will reward you with years of love, loyalty, and unforgettable moments.
