Fetch FinderA gentle giant that loves families and cold weather. Berners are calm and affectionate, but their large size and shorter lifespan matter. A sweet, patient giant famous for water rescue and gentleness with kids. Newfies are calm but very big and very hairy.
Side by side
| Bernese Mountain Dog | Newfoundland | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Large |
| Weight | 70–115 lb | 100–150 lb |
| Lifespan | 7–10 years | 9–10 years |
| Yearly cost (est.) | $2,500–$4,000 | $2,500–$4,500 |
| Family dog | Great family dog | Great family dog |
| 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 |
Which one should you choose?
Choose a Bernese Mountain Dog if…
- you want a dog that's easy to train
- you'd like a somewhat smaller, lighter dog
- you want somewhat lower yearly costs
Choose a Newfoundland if…
- you want a calmer, lower-energy dog
- you want a quieter dog
- you have cats at home
- you want a longer-lived companion
How they handle cold weather
Bernese Mountain Dog: Loves snow. Its thick tri-color coat was made for Swiss winters.
Newfoundland: Thick, water-resistant coat loves the cold.
Still deciding? Take the 3-minute quiz, or compare any breeds side by side.
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Large · 70–115 lb👪 Great family dogBernese Mountain DogA gentle giant that loves families and cold weather. Berners are calm and affectionate, but their large size and shorter lifespan matter.
Large · 100–150 lb👪 Great family dogNewfoundlandA sweet, patient giant famous for water rescue and gentleness with kids. Newfies are calm but very big and very hairy.