Bernese Mountain Dog Lifespan: How Long Do They Live?

Everything you need to know about the Bernese Mountain Dog's life expectancy, factors that affect longevity, and tips to help your dog live a longer, healthier life.

Average Lifespan

7–10 years

Size Category

Giant

Compared to Average

Below average

Bernese Mountain Dog Life Expectancy

The Bernese Mountain Dog has an average lifespan of 7 to 10 years, which is below average for dogs of their size category. As of 2026, advances in veterinary medicine and improved nutrition have helped many Bernese Mountain Dogs reach the upper end of this range and beyond.

Several factors influence an individual Bernese Mountain Dog's lifespan, including genetics, diet, exercise, veterinary care, and overall lifestyle. Dogs from health-tested parents who receive consistent preventive care tend to live the longest, healthiest lives.

Lifespan Range Visualization

5 years20 years

Lifespan by Gender

Male	7–10 years
Female	7.5–10.5 years

Factors That Affect Bernese Mountain Dog Lifespan

Key factors that affect Bernese Mountain Dog lifespan include:

Genetics: Dogs from health-tested breeding lines have better odds of a long life
Diet: A balanced, high-quality diet appropriate for their life stage
Exercise: Regular physical activity maintains cardiovascular health and healthy weight
Veterinary care: Annual checkups and preventive treatments catch issues early
Weight management: Keeping your Bernese Mountain Dog at a healthy weight can add 1-2 years to their life
Dental care: Good oral hygiene prevents infections that can affect overall health

Tips to Help Your Bernese Mountain Dog Live Longer

To help your Bernese Mountain Dog live their longest, healthiest life:

Feed a high-quality diet and measure portions to prevent obesity
Provide 60+ minutes of daily exercise
Keep up with all vaccinations and parasite prevention
Schedule annual veterinary checkups (twice yearly for seniors)
Brush teeth regularly or provide dental chews
Maintain mental stimulation with training, puzzles, and social interaction
Address health concerns promptly rather than waiting

Lifespan Compared to Similar Breeds

Breed	Lifespan	Size
Irish Wolfhound	6–8 yrs	Giant
Boerboel	9–11 yrs	Giant
Giant Schnauzer	12–15 yrs	Giant
Central Asian Shepherd Dog	12–15 yrs	Giant
Anatolian Shepherd Dog	11–13 yrs	Giant

Frequently Asked Questions

The Bernese Mountain Dog typically lives within the normal range for their size category. Individual lifespan depends on genetics, diet, exercise, and veterinary care.

Regular veterinary checkups, a balanced diet, daily exercise, mental stimulation, and preventive healthcare all contribute to a longer, healthier life for your Bernese Mountain Dog.

While specific records vary, some Bernese Mountain Dogs have been reported to live well beyond their average lifespan with exceptional care and favorable genetics.

Studies suggest minimal difference between male and female Bernese Mountain Dog lifespans, though spayed/neutered dogs may have slightly longer life expectancies.

Research in 2026 suggests that spaying or neutering can slightly increase lifespan by reducing certain cancer risks, though timing should be discussed with your veterinarian.