When it comes to the gentle giants in the canine world, there are very few dog breeds that can match the traits of the Bernese Mountain Dog and Irish Wolfhound. Both have massive size and wonderful companions, but under their large stances, the personalities, requirements, and histories differ. The Irish wolfhound is one of the tallest dog breeds, standing up to 32 to 34 inches. They were bred as hunters of the wolf and the guardians of the nobility.
However, Bernese mountain dog breeds are the working breeds known for cart-pulling and cattle-driving skills. While both of them are affectionate and very loyal, their temperaments, grooming needs, and lifespans differ from each other.
Deciding between the two massive dogs is not an issue of appearance but of compatibility with your lifestyle, energy levels, and expectations. This in-depth comparison provides a closer look at each breed so you can make the best possible decision for your furry friend.
Irish Wolfhound vs. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Irish wolfhound originated in Ireland as early as the 2nd century AD. According to Britannica, “Irish wolfhound: tallest of all dog breeds, a keen-sighted hound used in Ireland for many years to hunt wolves and other game.” They have an intimidating look and are quiet in nature.
They are one of the ancient breeds; they are more powerful than greyhounds. In the past, these dogs took part in the battles and were a perfect choice for hunting Elk and wild boar. Today, they are known as the gentle giants, and they are more friendly and affectionate towards their family and patient with the kids.
On the other side, Bernese Mountain Dog breeds are from the Swiss Alps that were raised for herding and guarding of the farms in the Canton of Bern. They are one of the four Swiss mountain dog breeds and the only one with long hair.
They have a tri-color coat that includes a white chest and a black mask with the rich rust color over the body. They have a warm and steady temperament, and they are very family-oriented. They are strong and sensitive and perform every task very well.
Size and Weight Overview
Irish Wolfhound:
Males are of height 32 to 35 inches at the shoulder, which they sometimes exceed to 34 inches. Female dogs are 30 to 33 inches tall. As for the weight, adult males usually fall in the range of 140 to 180 pounds. Although they are very large dog breeds that have a lean structure and very long legs, which are meant for endurance and speed.
Bernese Mountain Dog:
Male dogs are in the range of 25 to 28 inches tall; female Bernese are a bit shorter at 23 to 26 inches. They do weigh between 80 and 120 pounds. Bernese are compact in build and very powerful in structure. With the heavy structural bone, they can work better.
Temperament and Personality Traits
Irish Wolfhound:
Irish wolfhounds are known for their calm and noble nature. They are the most affectionate and have a quiet nature. They are generally very patient with the children, according to PetMD. They are more open with the family as compared to strangers.
They are not usually aggressive; these dogs are protective and are very good at detecting a sense of threat. They are emotionally sensitive and attuned to their owner’s mood and voice.
Bernese Mountain Dog:
Bernese dogs are very affectionate, playful, and social. They are known for their best interaction with children and do very well in the family environment. They are an intelligent breed, mild in nature. With their patient nature, they put up with the other dogs as well. They are the wonderful companions who do not like to spend most of the time alone.
Trainability and Intelligence Levels
Irish Wolfhound:
They are the smartest dogs that are not willing to do the same task again and again. Training should be based on consistency and a gentle nature, which also includes rewards and little correction. Patience is a must in the process. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), they are the fastest learners.
Bernese Mountain Dog:
They do very well in training and are very responsive as well. They are known for their smartness and willingness to please, which makes them a good fit for obedience, therapy work, and agility.
Energy, Activity, and Playfulness
Irish Wolfhound:
These dogs do not require high exercise, irrespective of their larger size. They like moderate daily walks and also like playing. At an early age, care should be taken as they are not over-exercised, which can be a problem for their joints
Bernese Mountain Dog:
At a young age, these dogs have moderate and high energy, which they put into very playful and interactive behavior. They were great at pulling the cart, obedience in the trial, and also in outdoor activities. Daily exercises are needed for mental stimulation to see great results.
Bite Force and Jaw Structure
Irish Wolfhound:
They are built for speed to hunt; their body are sleek and long and have a thin skull. Their jaw is suitably built for the sudden and precise movements in hunting rather than a hold.
On average, a human can bite with the force of 120 to 140 PSI. Whereas the Irish Wolfhound has a bite force of 406 PSI, which is closer to a wolf.
Bernese Mountain Dog:
These dogs have a wide skull and strong jaws, which are for the farm work that includes gripping and pulling. The upper teeth overlap the bottom teeth. The bite range can be up to 230 to 250 PSI
Health Concerns and Lifespan
Irish Wolfhound:
The lifespan is usually 6 to 8 years, which is short for a giant breed. There are a lot of health issues like heart disease, bone cancer, and bloat, as well as elbow and hip dysplasia.
Bernese Mountain Dog:
These dogs live relatively higher than the Irish wolfhound. They have a lifespan of 7 to 10 years or even more. But they are prone to many genetic issues, such as hip or elbow dysplasia, bloat, and cancer.
Nutritional Needs and Weight Management
Irish Wolfhound:
A balanced diet is required for the puppy as they have to grow to a massive size. Make sure the food prevents joint and bone issues. Divide the high-quality dry food into 8 to 10 cups a day. Also include supplements like glucosamine and omega-3, which support joint health.
Bernese Mountain Dog:
They need that is rich in nutrients that support bones and the immune system. Give 6 to 8 cups of high-quality food and divide it into two meals a day. To reduce the risk of bloat, give them smaller meals.
Allergies, Coat Care, and Grooming Requirements
Irish Wolfhound:
They have a wiry coat, and they are moderate shedders. They are moderate shedders and require weekly attention. They do not tend to have allergies. They are not hypoallergenic.
Bernese Mountain Dog:
They have large and lavish coats, and they are heavy shedders in fall and spring. They are prone to skin issues and have a risk of heat sensitivity.
Conclusion
We had a brief comparison between an Irish wolfhound vs, Bernese mountain dog after finding out the characteristics and traits; the decision lies within the scale in what you value in a canine companion.
If a calm and regal kind of dog breed is needed, then the Irish wolfhound is for you; it is muscular and fairly long. However, if you are looking for a dog that indulges in playing, likes sociability at work, and loves the cold weather, then the Bernese Mountain Dog rates equally high. Not to forget the noticeable differences between the two across lifespan, shedding, and health problems.
