Bernese Mountain Dog

gentleaffectionatecalmloyal
7–10
lifespan (years)
32–52
weight (kg)
giant
size class

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BASED ON AKC BREED DATA

About the breed

Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a calm, affectionate, hard-working giant — gentle with family and strikingly handsome. As a giant breed, the Bernese ages fast and has a short lifespan.

Care basics

Caring for a Bernese Mountain Dog

Joints. Keep a Bernese lean and avoid hard exercise while it is still growing. The breed is prone to joint issues.
Heat. The thick coat means the Bernese overheats easily. Keep it cool in summer.
Senior years. A Bernese Mountain Dog is a senior by about age 5 to 6. The breed has a higher cancer rate — watch closely.

Good to know

Bernese Mountain Dog questions

How long do Bernese Mountain Dogs live?

Bernese Mountain Dogs typically live 7 to 10 years.

Why is the Bernese lifespan short?

As a giant breed the Bernese ages very fast, and the breed has an elevated cancer rate.

When is a Bernese Mountain Dog a senior?

A Bernese Mountain Dog is generally a senior around age 5 to 6.

Lifespan data: American Kennel Club breed profile — akc.org/dog-breeds/bernese-mountain-dog

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