Breed comparison
Bernese Mountain Dog vs. Golden Retriever
Side-by-side comparison to help you decide which breed fits your lifestyle.
Size
large (70-115 lbs)
large (55-75 lbs)
Life expectancy
7-10 yrs
10-12 yrs
Activity
moderate
high
Grooming
high
high
Coat
double
double
Temperament
good-natured, calm, strong, affectionate
friendly, intelligent, devoted, trusting
First-year cost
$1,800-$5,000
$1,800-$5,200
Ongoing annual
$1,425-$3,525
$1,425-$3,525
Health comparison
Shared concerns
hip dysplasiaelbow dysplasia
Bernese Mountain Dog specific
histiocytic sarcoma (cancer)lymphomabloat (GDV)degenerative myelopathymast cell tumors
Golden Retriever specific
cancer (hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma)heart disease (subvalvular aortic stenosis)hypothyroidismskin allergies
Cost comparison
Bernese Mountain Dog
$1,800-$5,000year one
Food: $750-$1,800
Vet: $500-$850
Grooming: $50-$600
Gear: $300-$650
Golden Retriever
$1,800-$5,200year one
Food: $750-$1,800
Vet: $500-$850
Grooming: $50-$600
Gear: $300-$650
Which breed is right for you?
Consider a Bernese Mountain Dog if:
- —You want a calmer, lower-energy companion
- —You're willing to invest in regular grooming
- —You want a deeply loyal, bonded companion
Consider a Golden Retriever if:
- —You have an active lifestyle and enjoy outdoor time
- —You're willing to invest in regular grooming
- —You want a deeply loyal, bonded companion
- —You enjoy training and mental challenges with your dog
Common symptoms to watch
Limping
Both breeds
Hot Spots (Acute Moist Dermatitis)
Both breeds
Stiffness After Rest
Both breeds
Lethargy & Weakness
Bernese Mountain Dog
Weight Loss
Bernese Mountain Dog
Itching & Scratching
Golden Retriever
Paw Licking & Chewing
Golden Retriever
Ear Scratching & Head Shaking
Golden Retriever
Weight Gain & Obesity
Golden Retriever
Full guide
Bernese Mountain Dog →
Food, supplements, gear, training
Full guide
Golden Retriever →
Food, supplements, gear, training