The Bernese Mountain Dog is an almost ideal companion in many ways: beautiful, intelligent, friendly to people, and loyal to its owner. That is why this otherwise niche breed still has many devoted fans. However, the breed has one major weakness, and that is its short lifespan. Most Bernese Mountain Dogs do not live past ten years, and this is related to their inherited genetic background.
Bernese Mountain Dog Lifespan
The average lifespan of a Bernese Mountain Dog is about 9 to 12 years, making it one of the shortest-lived dogs among mainstream breeds. Many ordinary dogs live more than 12 years, and some long-lived small breeds can even reach 17 or 18 years. Compared with them, the Bernese lifespan is clearly shorter. The breed also matures relatively late. For many Bernese dogs, true maturity does not come until after two years of age, which makes the already short lifespan feel even shorter.
Why Is the Bernese Mountain Dog's Lifespan Short?
According to health reports from Bernese breed associations in the United States, the recorded average lifespan of many Bernese Mountain Dogs has sometimes been only seven to eight years, which is indeed very short. There are two main reasons. The first is that large breeds generally have shorter lifespans, and the Bernese Mountain Dog is a very large dog. The second is heredity. Just as in humans, longevity in Bernese dogs is also influenced by genetics, so if you want to raise one, it is wise to learn about the health and lifespan of the parents in advance.
Aside from the short lifespan, the Bernese Mountain Dog can almost be considered a perfect dog. It is very attractive, intelligent, loyal to its owner, and unusually friendly with nearly everyone, with very little natural aggression. At the same time, its huge body alone can provide a strong protective presence. If your home has enough space and you have enough time for dog care, a Bernese Mountain Dog can be a very good choice.