Compare breeds
Bernese Mountain Dog vs Labrador Retriever
Bernese Mountain Dog
Long
Labrador Retriever
Short
Choose the Bernese Mountain Dog if you want…
- a calmer companion
Choose the Labrador Retriever if you want…
- a home with other pets
- a dog or cat that learns quickly
- a flat or small home
- less hair around the house
- less time spent grooming
- an active companion for long walks and play
Side by side
| Trait | Bernese Mountain Dog | Labrador Retriever |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Giant | Large |
| Weight | 35–55 kg (77–121 lb) | 25–36 kg (55–79 lb) |
| Height | 58–70 cm (23–28 in) | 55–62 cm (22–24 in) |
| Life span | 7–10 years | 10–12 years |
| Origin | Switzerland | Canada and the United Kingdom |
| Energy | 3/5 | 4/5 |
| Trainability | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Good with children | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Good with other pets | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Suits a flat | 1/5 | 2/5 |
| Shedding | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| Grooming needs | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Barking / vocal | 2/5 | 2/5 |
Quick answers
Which is bigger, the Bernese Mountain Dog or the Labrador Retriever?
The Bernese Mountain Dog — typically about 1.5 times the weight. Bernese Mountain Dog: 35–55 kg (77–121 lb); Labrador Retriever: 25–36 kg (55–79 lb).
Which lives longer, the Bernese Mountain Dog or the Labrador Retriever?
The Labrador Retriever, on average. Bernese Mountain Dog: 7–10 years; Labrador Retriever: 10–12 years.
Is the Bernese Mountain Dog or the Labrador Retriever better with children?
We rate them the same. Both still need supervision with young children.
Other comparisons
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