Fetch Finder
At a glance
| Energy level | |
|---|---|
| Shedding | |
| Grooming needs | |
| Apartment-friendly | |
| Handles cold | |
| Affectionate / cuddly | |
| Good with kids | |
| Good for first-time owners | |
| Easy to train | |
| Good with other dogs | |
| Good with cats | |
| OK being left alone | |
| Reliable off-leash | |
| Protective / watchdog | |
| Barking | |
| Drooling |
Great for
- Families with kids
- Cold climates
- Homes with space
Watch out for
- Short lifespan compared with most breeds
- Large-dog costs: food, meds and vet bills
- Struggles in hot weather
Daily care
Exercise: About 30–60 minutes a day.
Grooming: Brush several times a week.
Cold weather: Loves snow. Its thick tri-color coat was made for Swiss winters.
*Yearly cost covers food, routine vet care, preventatives, toys and supplies. It doesn't include the purchase or adoption fee, emergencies or grooming beyond basics.
Gear for a Bernese Mountain Dog
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- FoodLarge breed dog food
Formulas made for large breeds match their energy needs and kibble size. Look for "complete and balanced" (AAFCO) on the bag, and ask your vet what's right for your dog.
See options on Amazon - Crate54-inch dog crate
A 54" crate fits most adult Bernese Mountain Dogs (up to about 115 lb). Choose one with a divider so it grows with a puppy.
See options on Amazon - Leash and harnessNo-pull harness and 6-foot leash
A front-clip harness helps with pulling while your dog learns leash manners.
See options on Amazon - ToysPuzzle and snuffle toys
Food puzzles keep a calmer dog's mind busy without a lot of running.
See options on Amazon - GroomingDeshedding brush
Bernese Mountain Dogs shed a lot; an undercoat rake or deshedding tool cuts down on loose hair.
See options on Amazon - WinterPaw balm
Protects paws from road salt and ice, even on cold-tolerant breeds.
See options on Amazon - BedOrthopedic dog bed
Big dogs are prone to joint problems; a supportive foam bed helps.
See options on Amazon
Find a Bernese Mountain Dog near you
We're building a list of trusted Bernese Mountain Dog rescues, breeders and trainers. Rescues are listed first.
Listings coming soon. In the meantime:
- Search adoptable dogs near you on Petfinder
- AKC's Bernese Mountain Dog page, which links to breed club rescue networks
Run a Bernese Mountain Dog rescue, training or grooming business? Get listed free.
Not sure a Bernese Mountain Dog is right for you? Take the 3-minute quiz to see which breeds fit your home and lifestyle.
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