Compare breeds
Australian Shepherd vs Bernese Mountain Dog
Australian Shepherd
Medium
Bernese Mountain Dog
Long
Choose the Australian Shepherd if you want…
- a dog or cat that learns quickly
- less hair around the house
- an active companion for long walks and play
Choose the Bernese Mountain Dog if you want…
- a family with children
- a home with other pets
- a quieter companion
- a calmer companion
Side by side
| Trait | Australian Shepherd | Bernese Mountain Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Giant |
| Weight | 16–32 kg (35–71 lb) | 35–55 kg (77–121 lb) |
| Height | 46–58 cm (18–23 in) | 58–70 cm (23–28 in) |
| Life span | 12–15 years | 7–10 years |
| Origin | United States | Switzerland |
| Energy | 5/5 | 3/5 |
| Trainability | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| Good with children | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Good with other pets | 3/5 | 4/5 |
| Suits a flat | 1/5 | 1/5 |
| Shedding | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Grooming needs | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Barking / vocal | 3/5 | 2/5 |
Quick answers
Which is bigger, the Australian Shepherd or the Bernese Mountain Dog?
The Bernese Mountain Dog — typically about 1.9 times the weight. Australian Shepherd: 16–32 kg (35–71 lb); Bernese Mountain Dog: 35–55 kg (77–121 lb).
Which lives longer, the Australian Shepherd or the Bernese Mountain Dog?
The Australian Shepherd, on average. Australian Shepherd: 12–15 years; Bernese Mountain Dog: 7–10 years.
Is the Australian Shepherd or the Bernese Mountain Dog better with children?
The Bernese Mountain Dog scores higher in our profiles (5 vs 4 out of 5). Always supervise young children with any pet.
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Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts