Bernese Mountain Dog: Size, Lifespan, Health and Care
Quick answer
PDSA, the UK veterinary charity, puts the Bernese Mountain Dog at about 58-70 cm tall and 42-53 kg (females), 48-63 kg (males), living up to 10 years. It suggests at least 1 hour a day, and lists 8 health problems to watch, including hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Minimum running cost: at least £105 a month after buying and setting up, and up to £17,000 over a lifetime.
From PDSA, the UK veterinary charity. Not veterinary advice. Worried about your own pet? See who to call.
On this page (7 sections)
Key facts
| Size | Large |
|---|---|
| Average height | 58-70 cm |
| Average weight | 42-53 kg (females), 48-63 kg (males) |
| Average lifespan | Up to 10 years |
| Exercise | At least 1 hour a day, split into several walks with off-lead time in secure areas, plus play and training |
| Grooming | Brushing several times a week, often daily in spring and autumn (heavy shedder) |
| Cost | At least £105 a month after buying and setting up, and up to £17,000 over a lifetime |
Source: PDSA, Bernese Mountain Dog breed information.
Health problems to watch
PDSA lists these for the breed. A higher risk does not mean every animal will be affected; where a screening scheme or test exists, ask the breeder for the parents' results.
- hip dysplasia
- elbow dysplasia
- gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV, "bloat")
- degenerative myelopathy
- hot spots
- progressive retinal atrophy
- cruciate disease
- certain cancers
Source: PDSA, Bernese Mountain Dog breed information.
Exercise and grooming
PDSA suggests at least 1 hour a day, split into several walks with off-lead time in secure areas, plus play and training. Grooming: brushing several times a week, often daily in spring and autumn (heavy shedder). Source: PDSA, Bernese Mountain Dog breed information.
Temperament
PDSA describes the breed as sweet, gentle, loyal "gentle giants", intelligent and eager to please; can be sensitive and very attached to their owners. PDSA says they are not generally recommended for families with small children as they can be boisterous, should not be left alone for more than four hours, and need protecting from overheating. Source: PDSA, Bernese Mountain Dog breed information.
Cost
PDSA's figure: at least £105 a month after buying and setting up, and up to £17,000 over a lifetime. These are minimums that leave out buying the animal and vet bills for illness or injury. More: annual cost of owning a dog and puppy first-year costs. Source: PDSA, Bernese Mountain Dog breed information.
Questions people ask
How long do Bernese Mountain Dogs live?
PDSA gives an average lifespan of up to 10 years.
How much exercise does a Bernese Mountain Dog need?
PDSA suggests at least 1 hour a day, split into several walks with off-lead time in secure areas, plus play and training.
What health problems do Bernese Mountain Dogs have?
PDSA lists hip dysplasia; elbow dysplasia; gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV, "bloat"); degenerative myelopathy; hot spots; progressive retinal atrophy; cruciate disease; certain cancers.
How much does a Bernese Mountain Dog cost?
PDSA's estimate: at least £105 a month after buying and setting up, and up to £17,000 over a lifetime.
Sources
- PDSA, Bernese Mountain Dog breed information, read 7 November 2026.
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