Golden Retriever vs Bernese Mountain Dog: Choosing A Breed

Deciding between a Golden Retriever and a Bernese Mountain Dog? Both of these friendly, family-oriented breeds have much to offer, but they also have distinct differences. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll cover:

• Breed history and temperament: discover the origins and personalities of these two beloved breeds.
• Physical characteristics: size, weight, coat colors, and grooming needs.
• Health issues: common health problems faced by both breeds.
• Exercise and activity requirements: the amount and types of daily activity each breed needs.
• Family compatibility and adoption: how well each breed fits into various family settings and the costs associated with adoption.

By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision about which breed is the perfect addition to your family.

At A Glance Golden Retriever and Bernese Mountain Dog Breed Comparison

	Golden Retriever	Bernese Mountain Dog
Origin	Scotland	Switzerland
Size	Medium to large	Large to giant
Weight	55-75 lbs (male), 55-65 lbs (female)	80-115 lbs (male), 70-95 lbs (female)
Lifespan	10-12 years	7-10 years
Coat	Dense, water-repellent, short to medium length, golden	Long, thick, tricolor (black, white, rust)
Temperament	Intelligent, friendly, reliable	Good-natured, calm, confident
Trainability	High	Moderate
Exercise Needs	High	Moderate
Health Issues	Hip dysplasia, heart issues, eye conditions	Hip and elbow dysplasia, heart issues, cancer
Good with Children	Yes	Yes
Good with Other Pets	Yes	Yes
Grooming Needs	Moderate	High
Ideal for	Active families, assistance roles (like guide dogs)	Families, farm work, draft work

Breed Overview

Golden Retriever Overview

History

Golden Retrievers were originally bred in Scotland during the late 1800s, with the purpose of creating an excellent gundog capable of retrieving game in both land and water. Today, they’re known for their friendly nature, intelligence, and versatility.

Temperament

Golden Retrievers are famous for their eager-to-please attitude and affectionate personality. They get along well with people of all ages and make excellent family pets. They’re also known for their patience and even-tempered nature, making them suitable for therapy and assistance roles.

Trainability

Is there any task a Golden Retriever can’t master? Thanks to their high intelligence and desire to please their owners, they’re considered one of the most trainable breeds. From basic obedience to advanced tricks and sports, Golden Retrievers excel at it all.

Energy Levels

Goldens have a moderate to high energy level, requiring daily exercise to stay fit and happy. They thrive in active households, where they can join family members in outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, or playing fetch.

Bernese Mountain Dog Overview

History

Bernese Mountain Dogs, often called “Berners,” originated in Switzerland, where they were primarily used as farm dogs, herding cattle and pulling carts. They gained popularity thanks to their strength, endurance, and friendly nature.

Temperament

Berners are known for their calm and gentle demeanor. They’re affectionate, loyal, and great with children, making them an excellent choice for families. Despite their size, they have a charming, almost goofy personality that endears them to everyone they meet.

Trainability

While not as quick to learn as Golden Retrievers, Bernese Mountain Dogs are still intelligent and trainable. Consistent, positive reinforcement-based training methods work best for this breed, as they respond well to praise and rewards.

Energy Levels

Berners have a moderate energy level, requiring daily exercise to remain healthy and content. They enjoy outdoor activities like leisurely walks and playing in the snow, but they’re also happy to relax with their families at home.

Physical Differences

Appearance

Size and Weight

Golden Retrievers are medium to large-sized dogs, with males typically weighing 65-75 pounds and standing 22-24 inches tall. Females are slightly smaller, at 55-65 pounds and 20-22 inches tall.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are a larger breed, with males weighing 85-110 pounds and standing 25-27.5 inches tall, while females weigh 70-95 pounds and stand 23-26 inches tall.

Coat and Colors

Golden Retrievers have a lustrous, medium-length golden coat, which can range from light to dark golden shades. Their coats are water-repellent, dense, and require regular grooming to prevent matting and shedding.

Bernese Mountain Dogs have a thick, tri-colored coat, featuring black, white, and rust shades. Their coats are also water-repellent and require regular grooming to maintain their appearance and prevent matting.

Grooming Needs

Golden Retrievers Grooming

• Regular brushing, at least 2-3 times a week
• Bathing every 4-6 weeks or as needed
• Nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care

Bernese Mountain Dogs Grooming

• Regular brushing, at least 2-3 times a week
• Bathing every 6-8 weeks or as needed
• Nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care

Health Issues

Common Health Issues in Golden Retrievers

• Hip dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia
• Eye problems (cataracts, glaucoma)
• Heart issues (subvalvular aortic stenosis)
• Cancer

Common Health Issues in Bernese Mountain Dogs

• Hip dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia
• Eye problems (entropion, ectropion)
• Heart issues (dilated cardiomyopathy)
• Cancer

Exercise and Activity Requirements

Golden Retriever Exercise Needs

• At least an hour of daily exercise
• Activities like fetch, swimming, hiking, or dog sports

Bernese Mountain Dog Exercise Needs

• 30-45 minutes of daily exercise
• Activities like leisurely walks, playing in the snow, or light hiking

Family life and Compatibility

Golden Retrievers as Family Dogs

• Excellent with children and other pets
• Adaptable to various living conditions, including apartments if provided with enough exercise
• Enjoys being a part of family activities

Bernese Mountain Dogs as Family Dogs

• Gentle and patient with children
• Typically good with other pets
• Best suited for homes with a yard or rural settings

Adoption and Pricing

Adopting a Golden Retriever

• Typical cost ranges from $500 to $3,000, depending on the breeder and pedigree
• Consider checking reputable breeders, rescue groups, or adoption centers

Adopting a Bernese Mountain Dog

• Typical cost ranges from $800 to $2,500, depending on the breeder and pedigree
• Consider checking reputable breeders, rescue groups, or adoption centers

Read more: Golden Retriever vs Labrador Retriever: Choosing A Breed

Conclusion

When choosing between a Golden Retriever and Bernese Mountain Dog, it’s important to consider factors like size, energy levels, exercise needs, and compatibility with your family and lifestyle. Both breeds make wonderful companions, offering love, loyalty, and endless joy to their families. As long as you’re committed to meeting their exercise and grooming needs, either breed would make a fantastic addition to your home.

Read more: Golden Retriever vs Irish Setter: Choosing A Breed

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between Golden Retrievers and Bernese Mountain Dogs?

Golden Retrievers are typically smaller and more energetic than Bernese Mountain Dogs. While both breeds have friendly and affectionate personalities, Golden Retrievers are known for their eager-to-please attitude and high trainability. On the other hand, Bernese Mountain Dogs are more laid-back and have a gentle, calm demeanor.

Which breed is better for families with children?

Both Golden Retrievers and Bernese Mountain Dogs are excellent family dogs, known for their gentle and patient nature around children. Ultimately, the best choice for your family will depend on factors such as size preference, energy levels, and the amount of time you can dedicate to exercise and grooming.

Are Golden Retrievers and Bernese Mountain Dogs good with other pets?

Yes, both breeds are generally good with other pets, especially when socialized from a young age. Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly nature and usually get along well with other dogs and animals. Bernese Mountain Dogs, with their calm temperament, are also typically good with other pets.

How much exercise do Golden Retrievers and Bernese Mountain Dogs need?

Golden Retrievers require at least an hour of daily exercise, while Bernese Mountain Dogs need around 30-45 minutes. Providing regular exercise will help keep both breeds healthy, happy, and well-behaved.

Are Golden Retrievers and Bernese Mountain Dogs hypoallergenic?

No, neither breed is considered hypoallergenic. Both Golden Retrievers and Bernese Mountain Dogs have thick, double coats that shed regularly, making them unsuitable for people with severe allergies to pet dander.

How much do Golden Retrievers and Bernese Mountain Dogs cost?

The cost of adopting a Golden Retriever typically ranges from $500 to $3,000, depending on the breeder and pedigree. Bernese Mountain Dogs tend to be slightly more expensive, with prices ranging from $800 to $2,500. It’s important to research reputable breeders or consider adoption from rescue groups or shelters.