Living
Bernese Mountain Dog vs Great Dane energy level
Both breeds have a moderate energy level, needing regular exercise but not overly demanding.
Bernese Mountain Dog vs Great Dane: Which Breed is Best for You?
Choosing between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Great Dane can be tough. Both breeds are gentle giants with unique traits that make them great family companions. Let’s explore their differences to help you decide which is right for you. (Bernese Mountain Dog vs Great Dane)
If you’re a prospective dog owner, especially someone with a family or living in an apartment, you might be wondering which breed fits your lifestyle better. You may have heard about the loving nature of both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Great Dane, but you need to know about their grooming needs, energy levels, and overall costs. This comparison will help clear up the confusion and guide you in making an informed decision.
Quick verdict
Both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Great Dane are wonderful breeds, but they cater to different lifestyles and needs.
Choose bernese mountain dog if...
Choose a Bernese Mountain Dog if you're looking for a friendly, trainable companion that thrives in a family environment and has a moderate energy level.
Choose great dane if...
Opt for a Great Dane if you want a loving giant that can handle a bit of independence and you're prepared for higher food costs and a need for space.
Head-to-head comparison
| Feature | bernese mountain dog | great dane | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 70-115 lbs | 110-175 lbs | great dane |
| Energy Level | 3/5 | 3/5 | Equal |
| Shedding Level | Heavy seasonal | Moderate | great dane |
| Trainability | 4/5 | 3/5 | bernese mountain dog |
| Cost (Monthly) | $120 - $250 | $200 - $400 | bernese mountain dog |
| Lifespan | 7-10 years | 7-10 years | Equal |
| Kid Friendly | 5/5 | 5/5 | Equal |
| Apartment Suitability | 2/5 | 1/5 | bernese mountain dog |
Deep dive
Trainability: Bernese Mountain Dog vs Great Dane
When comparing trainability, the Bernese Mountain Dog generally excels over the Great Dane. Bernese dogs are eager to please, making them highly trainable and responsive to commands. On the other hand, Great Danes, while intelligent, can be more stubborn, which may require extra patience and consistent training methods.
Shedding Levels: What to Expect
Shedding can significantly impact your daily cleaning routine. The Bernese Mountain Dog has a double coat and sheds heavily, especially during seasonal changes. In contrast, the Great Dane has a shorter, smoother coat that sheds moderately, resulting in less fur around the house and potentially easier grooming for owners.
Cost Considerations: Bernese Mountain Dog vs Great Dane
When it comes to ownership costs, the Bernese Mountain Dog tends to be more affordable monthly, ranging from $120 to $250. Great Danes, however, can cost between $200 and $400 each month, primarily due to their larger size and higher food requirements. This price difference is a crucial consideration for budget-conscious families.
Who wins for apartments
When it comes to living in an apartment, the Bernese Mountain Dog is the better option, but it's still a challenge. With a moderate energy level and a friendly disposition, they can adapt to smaller spaces better than the Great Dane. Great Danes are simply too large and require more space to stretch out comfortably, making them a tough fit for apartment life.
Who wins for families with kids
Both breeds are excellent for families with kids, but the Bernese Mountain Dog takes the lead. They are known for their gentle and loyal temperament, making them great companions for children. Great Danes are friendly, but their size can sometimes be overwhelming for little ones, while Bernese dogs are generally more patient and tolerant of the playful nature of kids.
Who wins for costs
If we're talking about costs, the Bernese Mountain Dog wins again. Their first-year costs range from about $1,800 to $3,200, which is lower than the Great Dane's $3,000 to $5,000. Great Danes have higher food costs and are prone to health issues that can lead to expensive vet bills, making them a pricier choice overall.
Who wins for first-time owners
For first-time dog owners, the Bernese Mountain Dog is the clear winner. Their trainability and friendly demeanor make them easier to manage for those new to dog ownership. Great Danes, while gentle, can be a handful due to their size and lower trainability, making them less ideal for inexperienced owners.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Bernese Mountain Dog or Great Dane?
Choosing between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Great Dane depends on your lifestyle. If you prefer a friendly, family-oriented dog that thrives with kids, the Bernese may be the better fit. However, if you want a gentle giant with a calm demeanor, the Great Dane could be your ideal companion. This answer relates to Bernese Mountain Dog vs Great Dane.
Is Bernese Mountain Dog more expensive than Great Dane?
In general, the Bernese Mountain Dog has a lower initial cost compared to the Great Dane. Monthly expenses for Bernese range from $120 to $250, while Great Danes can cost between $200 to $400. However, both breeds have similar long-term healthcare costs due to potential health issues.
Can Bernese Mountain Dogs live in apartments?
Bernese Mountain Dogs are not the best fit for apartment living due to their size and exercise needs. They prefer space to roam. In contrast, Great Danes are even less suited for apartments, as they require more room to move comfortably.
How do the energy levels of Bernese Mountain Dogs and Great Danes compare?
Both breeds have a moderate energy level, requiring regular exercise. However, Bernese Mountain Dogs enjoy more outdoor activities, while Great Danes are content with a couple of short walks a day. If you have an active lifestyle, the Bernese may be a better match.
What are the grooming needs for Bernese Mountain Dogs vs Great Danes?
Bernese Mountain Dogs have a medium-length double coat that requires regular grooming to manage shedding, especially during seasonal changes. Great Danes, on the other hand, have short coats that need minimal grooming, making them easier to maintain.
Are Bernese Mountain Dogs good with kids?
Yes, Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for being excellent with children. Their gentle and patient nature makes them a great family dog. Great Danes are also kid-friendly, but their size requires supervision to avoid accidental bumps.
How long do Bernese Mountain Dogs and Great Danes typically live?
Both breeds have a similar lifespan of around 7 to 10 years. However, it's important to note that larger breeds generally have shorter lifespans. Regular vet check-ups can help manage health issues and improve quality of life for both breeds.
What are common health issues for Bernese Mountain Dogs and Great Danes?
Both breeds are prone to bloat, a serious health issue. Bernese Mountain Dogs may also suffer from hip dysplasia and certain cancers, while Great Danes can face heart disease and bone-related problems. Regular vet visits are essential for early detection.
Quick answers
View more answersLiving
Bernese Mountain Dog vs Great Dane shedding
Bernese Mountain Dogs shed heavily during seasonal changes, while Great Danes have moderate shedding.
Living
Bernese Mountain Dog vs Great Dane grooming needs
Bernese require regular grooming due to their coat, while Great Danes need minimal grooming.
Health
Bernese Mountain Dog vs Great Dane lifespan
Both breeds typically live between 7 to 10 years, with larger breeds having shorter lifespans.
Living
Bernese Mountain Dog vs Great Dane friendliness
Both breeds are friendly, but Bernese are more kid-friendly, while Great Danes can be more laid-back.
Related DogBreedCompass guides
- Bernese Mountain Dog breed guide – Learn more about the characteristics of Bernese Mountain Dogs.
- Great Dane breed guide – Discover the traits and needs of Great Danes.
- Cost breakdown for large dog breeds – Understand ownership costs for large breeds.
- Training tips for large dog breeds – Find tips for training and socializing large dogs.
- Health issues in giant dog breeds – Explore common health issues in large dog breeds.
Related guides
Important reminder
This guide is not medical advice. If your dog shows pain, sudden behavior change, or worsening symptoms, consult a licensed veterinarian.
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