vs
Click on the breeds above to change the breed you want to compare.
Compare Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd side by side: temperament, energy, trainability, apartment fit, shedding, lifespan, weight and free adoption listings.
Breed traits
Character & behavior
Energy level
Playfulness
Intelligence
Trainability
Protectiveness
Sociability
Can stay alone
Lifestyle fit
Apartment-friendly
No
No
Good with kids
Yes
Yes
Good for first-time owners
Yes
No
Shedding
Noise level
Exercise needs
Physical & general
Life span
7–10 years
12–15 years
Weight
36–50 kg
16–32 kg
Height
58–70 cm
46–58 cm
Origin
Switzerland
United States
Grooming effort
Nutrition sensitivity
Health risk
Heat tolerance
Cold tolerance
The Bernese Mountain Dog and the Australian Shepherd are two distinct breeds with unique characteristics and care requirements. The Bernese Mountain Dog, originating from Switzerland, is known for its gentle temperament and strong protective instincts, making it a great family companion. In contrast, the Australian Shepherd, hailing from the United States, is an energetic and intelligent breed that thrives on activity and mental stimulation. While both breeds are good with children, their lifestyles and needs can differ significantly. The Bernese Mountain Dog typically has a shorter lifespan compared to the Australian Shepherd, which may influence a potential owner's decision. Additionally, the energy levels and exercise needs of these breeds vary, with the Australian Shepherd requiring more engagement and activity. Understanding these differences is crucial for prospective pet owners to ensure they choose a breed that aligns with their lifestyle.
Bernese Mountain Dog — Advantages
Good with kids
Good for first-time owners
Strong protective instincts
Sociable and friendly
Moderate exercise needs
Good for first-time owners
Strong protective instincts
Sociable and friendly
Moderate exercise needs
Disadvantages
Shorter lifespan (7-10 years)
Can struggle with separation anxiety
Not apartment-friendly
Higher shedding level
Moderate grooming difficulty
Can struggle with separation anxiety
Not apartment-friendly
Higher shedding level
Moderate grooming difficulty
Australian Shepherd — Advantages
Longer lifespan (12-15 years)
Highly trainable and intelligent
Very energetic and playful
Good with kids
Moderate grooming difficulty
Highly trainable and intelligent
Very energetic and playful
Good with kids
Moderate grooming difficulty
Disadvantages
Not suitable for first-time owners
Higher exercise needs
Can be noisy
Requires more mental stimulation
Moderate shedding level
Higher exercise needs
Can be noisy
Requires more mental stimulation
Moderate shedding level
Frequently Asked Questions
Which breed is better for families with kids?
Both breeds are good with kids, but the Bernese Mountain Dog is particularly known for its gentle nature.
How much exercise do these breeds need?
The Australian Shepherd requires more exercise (5) compared to the Bernese Mountain Dog (4).
Are either of these breeds suitable for apartment living?
Neither breed is considered apartment-friendly.
Which breed has a longer lifespan?
The Australian Shepherd has a longer lifespan, ranging from 12 to 15 years, compared to the Bernese Mountain Dog's 7 to 10 years.
How trainable are these breeds?
The Australian Shepherd is highly trainable (5), while the Bernese Mountain Dog is moderately trainable (3).
free Bernese Mountain Dog adoption listings
Para nosotros es fundamental que nuestros cachorros vayan a familias
Male
Not Educated
Free Adoption
246 views
Nuestros pequeños amigos peludos estarán listos para mudarse
Male
Not Educated
Free Adoption
228 views
Los cachorros crecen junto a su madre Lucy
Male
Not Educated
Free Adoption
211 views
Están acostumbrados y ya demuestran ser muy sociables
Male
Not Educated
Free Adoption
240 views
Nuestros 10 preciosos cachorros de Boyero de Berna nacieron
Male
Not Educated
Free Adoption
261 views
Bouvier Bernois
Male
Not Educated
Free Adoption
626 views
free Australian Shepherd adoption listings
Beautiful australian shepherd puppies for sale
Male
Educated
Free Adoption
12 views
Cachorros de Pastor Australiano de pura raza masculino y femenino
Male
Educated
Free Adoption
17 views
Cachorros de Pastor Australiano de pura raza.
Male
Educated
Free Adoption
20 views
Australian Shepherd puppy waiting for a loving family
Male
Educated
Free Adoption
56 views
Australian Shepherd ready for a new home
Male
Educated
Free Adoption
64 views
Australian Shepherd for rehoming
Male
Educated
Free Adoption
57 views