Bernese Mountain Dog
giant breed
Great Dane
giant breedBernese Mountain Dog vs Great Dane
The gentle giants of the dog world face off. The Great Dane towers over nearly everything with graceful nobility. The Bernese Mountain Dog combines strength with an irresistible teddy bear charm. Both breeds will take over your couch, your bed, and your entire heart — but they ask for very different things in return.
At a Glance
Key Differences
1Size
Great Danes are taller (28-32 inches, 110-175 lbs) but leaner. Bernese Mountain Dogs are shorter (23-28 inches, 70-115 lbs) but much stockier and heavier-boned.
2Lifespan
This is the heartbreaking reality of giant breeds. Great Danes average 7-10 years. Bernese Mountain Dogs average 6-8 years — one of the shortest of any breed.
3Climate
Great Danes have thin single coats and do poorly in extreme cold or heat. Bernese thrive in cold weather but can overheat quickly in temperatures above 75°F.
4Drool Factor
Great Danes are significant droolers. Bernese Mountain Dogs drool moderately — noticeably less than Danes.
Health Comparison
Bernese Mountain Dog Health Concerns
- ⚠Hip Dysplasia
- ⚠Elbow Dysplasia
- ⚠Heart Disease
- ⚠Bloat
Great Dane Health Concerns
- ⚠Hip Dysplasia
- ⚠Wobblers Syndrome
- ⚠Cardiomyopathy
- ⚠Bloat
Temperament
Bernese Mountain Dog
Great Dane
🏆 Our Verdict
Choose a Great Dane if you want a surprisingly gentle indoor giant who needs moderate exercise and adapts well to various living spaces. Choose a Bernese Mountain Dog if you love outdoor activities in cool weather and want a fluffy, affectionate working companion.
Choose Bernese Mountain Dog if...
People who want the tallest breed with a gentle, calm indoor presence. Urban owners with larger apartments. Families who want an impressive but manageable exercise routine.
Learn more about Bernese Mountain Dog →Choose Great Dane if...
Outdoor enthusiasts in cool climates. Families who want a fluffy, cuddly companion. Owners who enjoy activities like cart-pulling, hiking, and winter sports.
Learn more about Great Dane →