If there ever were a pet that could compare to a tractor in sheer strength and work ethic, the Bernese Mountain Dog would certainly be up to the test. Apart from being work horses, they’re also stunningly beautiful, have a good temperament and are known for being safe around children.
But how big are they at the shoulder level, what are the weight differences between females and males, and what are some unique characteristics of the Bernese mountain dog?
Size
Comparing a Bernese Mountain Dog to a horse is quite the understatement. They’re more like small elk’s.
That’s right – I might be getting carried away. Let’s get back to the facts:
Standing up to 27 inches (69 cm) at the shoulder level, the bernese mountain dog is not made to fit in purses. If you want to be able to physically carry your dog around, you’ll need a rugged, sturdy and spacious rucksack.
We don’t recommend it.
But you have that option.
Height differences in female and male bernese mountain dogs:
Female height: 23-26 inches / 58-66 cm.
Male height: 25-27.5 inches / 63.5-70 cm.
As you can see from the numbers above: differences are completely normal.
Weight
Bernese mountain dogs are quite massive both in size and weight.
Also, according to the American Kennel Club, some dogs are prone to getting overweight. Therefore it is important to keep a healthy, high quality diet under your veterinarian’s supervision.
Before we take a closer look at the numbers, remember that’s exactly what they are: just numbers. Always follow your professional vet’s advice if you’re ever in doubt.
Weight differences in female and male bernese mountain dogs:
Female weight: 70-95 pounds / 32-43 kg.
Male weight: 80-115 pounds / 36-52 kg.
As with height, weight differences are also completely normal. In some cases, females weigh more than males.
Unique characteristics
The Bernese mountain dog doesn’t have any unique characteristics that really stand out on their own. But put them all together, and you’ve got quite a unique dog:
- A tri-color fur consisting of black, white and brown, reminding us of smaller dog races with similar coloration.
- Amazing character traits, such as: intelligent, loving, loyal and trustworthy.
- Robust physicality standing at 25 inches, weighing right around 90 pounds.
Dogs similar in size to the Bernese Mountain Dog
- German Shepherd’s can approach the same size
- Hovawart
- Weimaraner
- Rhodesian Ridgeback
- Alaskan Malamute
- Rottweiler
- Great Pyrenees


