Bernese Mountain DogVSNewfoundland
The Bernese Mountain Dog and Newfoundland are both large, gentle, calm-natured dogs with beautiful coats. The Berner is a Swiss farm dog; the Newfoundland is a Canadian water rescue dog. Both are loving family companions but have notably short lifespans.
Last reviewed: June 2026
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Bernese Mountain Dog | Newfoundland |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 70–115 lbs, 23–28 in | 100–150 lbs, 26–28 in |
| Energy Level | Moderate | Moderate |
| Shedding | Very Heavy | ✓Heavy |
| Trainability | Good | Good |
| Good With Kids | Excellent | Excellent |
| Apartment Friendly | Poor | Poor |
| Average Lifespan | 7–10 years | ✓9–10 years |
| Monthly Cost (est.) | ✓$175–$350 | $200–$400 |
✓ indicates advantage in this category. Tie = comparable.
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Choose a Bernese Mountain Dog if…
Families who want a tri-color beauty with a classic alpine appearance and affectionate, loyal temperament.
Choose a Newfoundland if…
Families who want the ultimate gentle giant water dog — patient, calm, and excellent with all ages.
Grooming & Shedding: Bernese Mountain Dog vs Newfoundland
Bernese Mountain Dogs have a long, thick, tri-colored double coat that sheds very heavily year-round with pronounced seasonal blowouts. Daily brushing is required during peak shedding periods and brushing three to four times per week is the standard otherwise. Their longer coat is prone to matting around the ears, collar, and hindquarters. Newfoundlands have a dense, water-resistant double coat that sheds heavily, though their coat texture is slightly different — it tends to be oilier and more water-repellent. Weekly brushing minimum is required, with daily brushing during blowouts. Both breeds produce substantial amounts of hair in the home. Newfoundlands also drool heavily, which can mix with shed hair and create maintenance challenges. Professional de-shedding treatments benefit both breeds during blowout seasons. Neither is suitable for allergy-sensitive households.
Temperament & Family Compatibility
Bernese Mountain Dogs are gentle, affectionate, and deeply devoted family companions. They bond closely with all family members, are patient with children, and have a calm, steady temperament that makes them manageable despite their large size. They are slower to mature and can be more stubborn in training than some breeds. Their most significant challenge is their tragically short lifespan of 7–10 years, primarily due to cancer. Newfoundlands share the same gentle giant nature but are perhaps even calmer and more patient. They are famous for their extraordinary gentleness with children and have been used as water rescue dogs. They drool considerably and require more coat maintenance than Berners in some ways. Both breeds are wonderful family companions, but the short lifespan of both — particularly the Berner — is an important emotional consideration.
Compare pet insurance for Bernese Mountain Dog and Newfoundland
Both breeds have different health profiles — find the right coverage level before your first vet visit.
Compare Pet Insurance QuotesFrequently Asked Questions
Which is a better swimmer?
Newfoundlands are exceptional swimmers — they were bred for water rescue and have webbed feet, water-resistant coats, and a natural affinity for swimming. Bernese Mountain Dogs can swim but it is not a defining trait. If water activities matter, the Newfoundland is the clear choice.
Which drools more?
Newfoundlands are heavier droolers due to their jowly faces. Bernese Mountain Dogs also drool but generally less. Both owners should keep towels handy.
Which has better health?
Both breeds have short lifespans due to cancer susceptibility. Bernese Mountain Dogs have a particularly high histiocytic sarcoma rate. Newfoundlands are prone to heart conditions (subaortic stenosis) and cystinuria. Neither breed is considered healthy overall compared to smaller breeds — owners should purchase from health-tested lines and budget for veterinary care.
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