Bernese Mountain Dog vs Newfoundland

Side-by-side comparison of two popular breeds — temperament, exercise, grooming, lifespan and common health issues. Use it to decide which breed fits your home.

Bernese Mountain Dog vs Newfoundland — at a glance

The Bernese Mountain Dog (36–52 kg, 7–10 years) and the Newfoundland (45–68 kg, 9–10 years) sit in different — or sometimes overlapping — corners of dog ownership. Here's how they really compare for an everyday Irish or UK family.

Energy levels are well-matched between the Bernese Mountain Dog and Newfoundland — both need similar daily exercise.

Both have manageable grooming routines — the Newfoundland demands slightly more, but neither needs daily fuss.

Insurance premiums for breeds with brachycephalic, joint or cancer predispositions run 20–40% above average — check before you commit. We have a free quote calculator here.

	Bernese Mountain Dog	Newfoundland
Group	Working	Working
Origin	Switzerland	Canada (Newfoundland)
Weight	36–52 kg	45–68 kg
Height	58–70 cm	66–71 cm
Lifespan	7–10 years	9–10 years
Energy level
Trainability
Grooming needs
Good with kids
Good with other pets
Hypoallergenic
Watchdog instinct
Novice-owner OK

Bernese Mountain Dog

Temperament

Calm, gentle, devoted, slightly aloof with strangers. Berners adore their family, are wonderful with children of all ages and tolerant of other pets.

Exercise

60 minutes of moderate daily exercise. Heavy build means avoiding impact in puppies under 18 months — no jogging, jumping, long stairs.

Grooming

Long, silky double coat. Brush 3× weekly, daily during seasonal moults. Bathe every 6–8 weeks. Light trimming around feet and rear keeps things tidy.

Health

Cancer is the leading cause of death — over 50% in some studies. Hip and elbow dysplasia. Bloat / GDV. Histiocytic sarcoma is over-represented in this breed. Lifespan 7–10 years; planning for shorter time together is part of choosing this breed.

Full Bernese Mountain Dog profile →

Newfoundland

Temperament

Sweet, calm, patient, loyal. Newfoundlands bond closely with their family, are remarkably tolerant with children of all ages, and tend to get along with other animals.

Exercise

45–60 minutes of moderate daily exercise. Swimming is ideal — they're built for it (webbed feet, water-repellent coat). Avoid impact exercise in puppies.

Grooming

Heavy double coat — brush 3–4× weekly, daily during seasonal moults. Bathe every 6–8 weeks. Drool is significant.

Health

Cardiomyopathy / aortic stenosis. Hip dysplasia. Cystinuria (DNA test). Bloat / GDV. Lifespan averages just 9–10 years.

Full Newfoundland profile →

Which is right for you?

Pick the Bernese Mountain Dog if

Families with children, rural / suburban homes, owners who want a calm giant.

Pick the Newfoundland if

Families with children, large homes, cool climates, owners near water.

🎯 Take the breed match quiz → 💰 Compare lifetime cost