The Bernese doesn’t just have a pretty face, but it’s a gentle and deeply affectionate friend that easily wins everyone’s heart. They instantly become a favorite pet for families and dog lovers because of their fluffy, thick coat, expressive eyes, and calm nature.
If you’re looking for a mountain dog breed that has the same lovable traits with a little bit of change in looks or personality. Whether it’s their protective nature, mountain-dog strength, or caring vibes that will attract you, there are some breeds that tick all the right boxes.
In this article, we’ll take you through 10 mountain dog breeds similar to the Bernese Mountain Dog. Each of these dogs provides you with warmth, loyalty, and beauty. Are you ready to meet your next best friend? Let’s dive in!
Dog Breeds Similar to Bernese Mountain
From soulful eyes to muscular builds, these breeds reflect everything we love about Bernese.
1. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
The AKC says that the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog resembles the Bernese Mountain Dog just like a sibling, but it just has a bolder and more rugged build. Also, it’s called “Swissy” sometimes.
It’s strong and dependable, deeply connected with its family. It has the same tricolor coat as the Bernese but shorter fur, which makes grooming easier.
Even though they’re large in size, they are social and affectionate dogs. They love to spend time with children, enjoy family outings, and watch over the home with confidence.
Their loyal and gentle temperament makes them an ideal match for families that are active and want a dog that’s a protector and a friend as well.
2. Hovawart
The Hovawart is not as popular as the Bernese Mountain Dog, but it definitely deserves the limelight. This German working dog has similar qualities to the Bernese, just like its expressions, long flowing coat, and kind nature.
They were originally bred as farm dogs because the Hovawart is brave, strong, and loyal to its family. It’s a true protector and is always ready and alert while being gentle with the ones he trusts.
While they need continuous early training and enough mental stimulation, their truthfulness and intelligence make them highly pleasing companions.
3. Great Dane
The Great Dane doesn’t have the same fluffy coat as a Bernese, but it certainly shares its gentle spirit and huge presence. It’s also known as the “gentle giant” in the dog world.
They’re very loving and loyal and also form strong bonds with their families. They stay patient with children and are not at all aggressive towards them.
Just like the Bernese, they also need plenty of space and friendship. When included in family activities, they feel the happiest and often lean against you for affection.
According to Purina, if you’re looking for a charming, easygoing pet with a big heart as its big paws, then the Great Dane is the perfect match for you.
4. Saint Bernard
If you’re someone who loves the Bernese’s loving and gentle nature, just wait to meet the Saint Bernard. This ideal mountain dog breed is known for its heroic acts in snowy mountains, but at the back of this, it is a sweet, adoring dog with a heart of gold.
They’re natural family protectors and devoted cuddle buddies; this is what makes them perfect for a household having children. Their size doesn’t matter, as they’re popular for being undoubtedly tender and obedient.
Saint Bernards also enjoy cooler areas and need space to stretch out and roam freely, much like Bernese Mountain Dogs. They love a good quality time with humans or a normal walk in the yard, as they are not high-energy dogs.
5. Leonberger
The Leonberger is just like a majestic cousin of the Bernese. With its lion-like body, smart eyes, and calm existence, this huge mountain dog breed is stunning to look at and amazing to live with.
They’re warm-hearted, extremely loyal, and love being close to the family. They’re patient with children, tender with other pets, and praised for their strong emotional intelligence.
Males can weigh between 110 and 170 pounds, and females usually range from 90-140 pounds and stand up to 31.5 inches tall. Their average lifespan lies around 7 years, which is normal for these large breeds.
Their bodies require daily exercise, as they enjoy hiking, swimming, or casually enjoying themselves beside their humans. They’re loving family members who instantly bond strongly with children.
6. Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is another large dog breed that resembles the Bernese in so many ways, like its graceful, powerful, and endlessly loyal. This breed is considered both a guardian and a kind friend, as it has quite a strong character.
These giant dogs usually weigh between 85 and 120 pounds, with males standing up to 32 inches tall. They live up to 12 years, which is slightly longer than other giant breeds.
As Hill’s Pet says, if you’re the one admiring the Bernese Mountain Dog because of its truthfulness and calm temperament, the Great Pyrenees treats you with the same temper.
7. Irish Wolfhound
Regardless of being one of the tallest dog breeds in the world, the Irish Wolfhound has a gentle soul like the Bernese. Calm and kind, these dogs are admired for their peaceful and beautiful approach.
Irish Wolfhounds are sweet-natured dogs, standing up to 30-32 inches tall and weighing between 105 and 120 pounds. Their average lifespan is about 6-8 years, which is comparatively short, but is filled with unmatched loyalty.
They enjoy partnerships and are the happiest when involved in daily family activities. They’re not extra energetic, but they enjoy random walks, large spaces, and lots of affection.
8. Kuvasz
The Kuvasz is a handsome, bold, and devoted mountain dog breed that shares many traits with the Bernese, including commitment and fiercely protective behaviors. This magnificent white-coated dog was first bred in Hungary to protect livestock.
While being more reserved than the Bernese, this breed enjoys homes where it is properly trained and socialized, and is loving with people it trusts. This dog is not for first-time dog owners but is for the experienced ones; it offers incomparable devotion and strength.
The fierce independence of the Kuvasz, which has been polished over time through working without human supervision, is one of its most fascinating characteristics. It doesn’t require constant attention, which makes it ideal for people looking for a loyal yet self-assured friend.
For the ones who want a noble, protective dog with Bernese-like loyalty, WebMD mentions that the Kuvasz is the hidden treasure for them.
9. Mastiff
It is huge in structure but gentle in attitude; the Mastiff is a soft protector who retains the same dedication and adoring nature as the Bernese. Despite their frightening external look, mastiffs are recognized for being peaceful, understanding, and loyal to their families.
These massive dogs can weigh anywhere from 120 to 230 pounds and stand 27.5-32 inches tall, making them one of the largest dog breeds. Their average lifespan lies between 6-10 years, and they love to stay in spacious homes where they have a place to stretch out and relax.
Their strong emotional sensitivity sets them apart, as they can become deeply connected with their owner’s mood and will quietly support them without asking for attention. They’re not much clingy, but you’ll always see them nearby when you need them the most.
10. Caucasian Shepherd Dog
The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is among the most outstanding Bernese-like breeds out there. It was originally bred to protect livestock from wolves and bears, as it plays the role of a guardian, being incredibly affectionate with its family.
This breed is massive, with a height of 23-30 inches and a weight of around 99-170 pounds. They form strong bonds with their people and know how to be gentle, especially with the children in the household.
The Caucasian Shepherd Dog takes its guarding trait so seriously and is automatically suspicious of outsiders, but the Bernese flourishes in friendly, pleasant settings. To ensure a healthy temperament, consistent and early socialization training is necessary.
Conclusion
The Bernese Mountain Dog has its own amazing way of winning hearts with its fluffy charm and loving soul, but as we discussed, it’s not the only one. From the soft strength of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog to the unmatched loyalty of the Caucasian Shepherd, most mountain dog breeds contain the best and same best traits as the Bernese in their unique ways.
Some of them are very playful, and some are very watchful, but all are dedicated pets or friends ready to fill your life with love, protection, and unforgettable memories.
Before taking the final step of choosing your new furry friend, explore more and consider their needs, energy levels, and how they’ll fit into your lifestyle. Whatever breed you choose, it’s confirmed that you’re in for a lifetime of loyalty, laughter, and those heart-melting doggy eyes.
