How big can a Bernese Mountain Dog grow?

The beautiful Bernese Mountain Dog has a history that can be traced back over 2000 years to Switzerland, where they once helped with pulling carts and protecting farms from predators. Besides their large size, Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their intelligence, warmth, and loyalty, making them excellent companion dogs. This breed, nicknamed "Bernie," prefers cold weather, and their natural long fur keeps them warm.

If you are considering adopting a Bernese Mountain Dog, you must consider their impressive size. Puppies can gain 2 to 4 pounds per week during the first few months, and they can weigh up to 115 pounds when fully grown, which can take 2 to 3 years to fully mature.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to certain genetic diseases, so purchasing pet insurance for them is a wise choice, allowing you to manage various potential treatment needs.

How big can a Bernese Mountain Dog get?

According to the American Kennel Club ( AKC ) data, Bernese Mountain Dogs can grow up to 27.5 inches tall and weigh 115 pounds by the age of 3. They are commonly referred to as giant breeds, with a life expectancy of 7 to 10 years.

Bernese Mountain Dog's size

According to AKC data, the weight of Bernese Mountain Dogs varies by gender. Adult females weigh between 70 to 95 pounds, while males range from 80 to 115 pounds. Large dogs take longer to develop than small dogs, and owners can expect their Bernese Mountain Dog to reach its final weight by the age of 3.

I once had a Bernese Mountain Dog, which was truly an astonishing big fellow! Every time I took it out for a walk, passersby would stop to watch, as if they were seeing a small bear. Although they are large in size, they are surprisingly gentle, almost like a furry big teddy bear. But don't be deceived by their gentle appearance; these dogs need plenty of space and exercise, or they will become restless.

Body Size of Bernese Mountain Dog Subspecies

Mini Bernese Mountain Dog size

The Mini Bernese Mountain Dog is a hybrid breed of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Bernese Mountain Dog. They are much smaller than the standard Bernese Mountain Dog, standing only 16 to 19 inches tall and weighing 35 to 55 pounds when fully grown.

Bernese Mountain Dog size

Bernese Mountain Dogs come in various sizes, including standard, mini, and micro. They are hybrid breeds with standard, mini, or toy Poodles.

• Standard Bernese Mountain Poodle typically weighs between 70 to 90 pounds when fully grown.
• Mini Bernese Mountain Dog weighs between 15 to 40 pounds when fully grown.
• Miniature Bernese Mountain Poodle weighs 10 to 20 pounds when fully developed.

To be honest, these mixed breeds are cute, but I always feel that they lack the majestic presence of a purebred Bernese Mountain Dog. The calm and powerful aura of a purebred Bernese Mountain Dog is something that no mixed breed can easily replicate. Of course, the smaller versions are indeed more suitable for apartment living, and that cannot be denied.

When do Bernese Mountain Dogs stop growing?

Bernese Mountain Dogs stop growing between the ages of 2 and 3. This is slower than most dog breeds, as Berners will continue to gain weight and size as they age.

How big do adult Bernese Mountain Dogs get?

Adult male Bernese Mountain Dogs stand 25 to 27.5 inches tall and weigh 80 to 115 pounds, while females stand 23 to 26 inches tall and weigh 70 to 95 pounds.

Factors Affecting the Size of Bernese Mountain Dogs

Several factors may influence the growth and size of Bernese Mountain Dogs, including genetics and lifestyle.

As a breed developed for farm work, this dog requires at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise each day to maintain its physical and mental health, according to the Bernese Mountain Dog Club.

Like all dog breeds, Bernese Mountain Dogs may be affected by health issues that can impact their growth, including gastric torsion, degenerative myelopathy, and hip problems. The AKC also recommends that owners regularly check their Bernese's ears and teeth for signs of infection.

Genetic factors may also affect the growth of Bernese Mountain Dogs, so it is best to consult with your breeder about how large your dog may grow.

My friend's Bernese Mountain Dog has suffered greatly due to hip joint problems, and the health of such large dogs really needs extra attention. The medical expenses are also not insignificant; after several surgeries, they spent a large sum of money. This is also why I emphasize the importance of pet insurance – you never know when you will need it.

Ideal diet for maintaining a healthy weight for Bernese Mountain Dogs

A good diet is a key factor in the development and growth of any dog. Due to the large size of Bernese Mountain Dogs, this breed is prone to obesity, so their calorie intake and weight levels should be closely monitored. Consult a veterinarian to determine a suitable dietary plan for your Bernese Mountain Dog.

These gentle giants need high-quality food, but do not overfeed them. I have seen too many overweight Bernese Mountain Dogs, which adds to the burden on their already problematic joints. Scheduled feeding is more suitable for them than free feeding, even though their big, yearning eyes always make it hard to resist giving a little extra treat.

This breed may be beautiful, but the harsh reality is that they have a short lifespan. Compared to other large dog breeds, their average lifespan is indeed heartbreaking. So if you decide to adopt a Bernese Mountain Dog, be mentally prepared to give it the best quality of life, as the time you have together may not be long.