Information about Bernese Mountain Dogs

A gentle giant, the Bernese Mountain Dog is renowned for its thick, tri-colour coat and sturdy structure.  The Bernese usually has an easy-going temperament and loves to be goofy around its owners. Sometimes forgetful of their size, they need a big, wide-open space to play and roam.

They are usually easily trainable dogs, but due to their size and strength, you’ll need a bit of muscle behind you if you’re taking them on walks.

Want to learn more about this hard working, loving breed? Read our guide below to see if Bernese Mountain Dogs are the pet for you.

Bernese Mountain Dogs breed information

If you’d like to get to know the breed a little more closely, here are a few key traits and facts about the Bernese Mountain Dog:

How long do Bernese Mountain Dogs live?

Bernese Mountain Dogs have an average lifespan of 6 to 10 years.

How big do Bernese Mountain Dogs get?

Bernese Mountain Dogs usually reach their full weight and height by 15 months old. Healthy male and female Bernese Mountain Dogs are between 58.7 - 69 cm tall and weigh between 34 - 54 kgs.

Do Bernese Mountain Dogs shed?

Bernese Mountain Dogs shed moderately to heavily all year round. 

  Should I get a Bernese Mountain Dog?

 Should I get a Bernese Mountain Dog?

If you live on a large property or farm, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a breed you could consider getting. Conditioned to work in big spaces, you can involve a Bernese in several family activities or farm jobs. As their coats are thick, Bernese Mountain dogs are suited to cooler climates, so keep that in mind if you intend to put them to work. 

Bernese Mountain dogs are large, so early socialisation and training are key to ensure they know how to behave around people. Introducing them to different dogs, families, and children from a young age is a great way to do this.

Bernese Mountain Dog personality

Bernese Mountain Dogs have generally sweet temperaments and can be  affectionate with their owners. They prefer activities and being part of the family. Known to be ‘soft’ natured, they need a loving environment with patient people that are willing to give them time and care. Like any dog, early training is a great way to instill good behaviour, so they thrive in their environment.

Taking care of Bernese Mountain Dogs

Grooming

Bernese Mountain Dogs have thick, large outer coats and wooly undercoats. As they are moderate to heavy shedders, especially around autumn and spring, they usually require a lot of grooming and maintenance. They need to be brushed several times a week to keep their coat clean and bathed periodically. To reduce tartar build up and maintain oral hygiene, aim to brush your Bernese's teeth once a week.

Exercise

Bernese Mountain Dogs usually require a lot of exercise. Aim for three walks a day, around 30 minutes. Go for walks when the weather is cooler, as Bernese Mountain Dogs can be susceptible to overheating with their thick coats.

Diet

Bernese Mountain Dogs should eat one big meal, or two lighter meals a day. Aim for a well balanced selection of fresh food and lean meat, like fresh fruit, vegetables, chicken, beef and even yoghurt, which are great ways to incorporate the right vitamins and minerals into their diet.

Common Bernese Mountain Dog health conditions

Like most dog breeds, Bernese Mountain Dogs are susceptible to certain health conditions. Here are some examples:

Hip dysplasia

Hip dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a hereditary skeletal condition seen in large dog breeds. The condition creates a deformity in a dog’s hips as they grow, leading to reduced mobility and range of motion. Bernese Mountain Dogs can have a higher chance of developing hip dysplasia due to over breeding within their gene pool. Early signs of hip dysplasia in a dog can be limping, abnormal walking patterns, and loss of muscle in the hind legs.

Elbow dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia is another common condition in large dog breeds. It’s an inherited condition that results in developmental abnormalities and affects a dog’s elbow joints. Early signs of elbow dysplasia include reduced - range of motion, forelimb lameness, and fluid build-up in the joint.

The cost of insuring a Bernese Mountain Dog

If you’re thinking about getting pet insurance for your Bernese Mountain Dog, factors like age and location could affect the cost of your premium. Everyday Pet Insurance offers Basic, Standard, Comprehensive and Comprehensive Plus cover that can help protect you and your furry friend. Check what each insurance cover includes.

Need Pet Insurance for your Bernese Mountain Dog?

Why pick Everyday Pet Insurance?

Comprehensive Plus annual limit

Comprehensive Plus annual limit#

Claim up to $30,000 a year

Claim up to 80% back*

Get up to 80% back on eligible vet bills

Lifetime cover

Lifetime cover

Your pet is covered from 8 weeks old for life

Introducing GapOnly

Introducing GapOnly®

Claim your benefit on the spot and only pay the gap on eligible claims=

Related articles

# Policy Terms and Conditions, exclusions and limits apply. Benefit limit amounts vary by level of cover.

* Exclusions, limits and sub-limits may apply.

Cover is available for the life of your pet provided you renew your policy each year without any break, lapse or change in the level of Cover. This means once your pet is insured with us and as long as we continue to offer the product, you will be able to renew your policy for that pet for life provided you continuously maintain the cover. Cover is subject to the terms and conditions of your renewing policy. See details in your PDS.

The gap is defined as the difference between the vet's invoice and the claim benefit under your policy. Policy terms and conditions apply. GapOnly® is only available at participating Vets. Please visit GapOnly® to search for GapOnly® enabled vets. GapOnly® is a trademark owned by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd (PetSure) (ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183). 

Everyday Pet Insurance policies entered into for the first time prior to 17 July 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436 (Hollard), arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted and distributed by Hollard’s Authorised Representative (AR) Woolworths Group Limited ABN 88 000 014 675, AR 245476 (Woolworths). Everyday Pet Insurance policies entered into for the first time on or after 17 July 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by PetSure and promoted and distributed by PetSure’s AR, Woolworths. Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing, or choosing to continue with the product. PDS and Target Market Determination available at insurance.everyday.com.au/pet-insurance.