Whenever I’m asked about the Bernese Mountain Dog, one of the first things I tell people is that be ready for a big dog. Berners aren’t just large, they’re strong, powerful, and built to work. Originally bred in Switzerland to pull carts and guard livestock, their size isn’t just for looks, it’s part of their history.
But as an owner, knowing how big they’ll get (and when) is really important. It helps you plan for things like feeding, training, exercise, and even how much space you’ll need at home.
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Bernese Mountain Dog Size Chart by Age and Gender
Berners grow fast in their first year, but they don’t fully mature until around 2–3 years old. Males are generally larger than females, though both are considered large-breed dogs.
| Age | Male Height | Male Weight | Female Height | Female Weight |
| 2–3 months | 12–15″ | 25–35 lbs | 11–14″ | 20–30 lbs |
| 4–6 months | 16–20″ | 45–65 lbs | 15–18″ | 40–55 lbs |
| 7–9 months | 21–23″ | 70–85 lbs | 19–22″ | 60–75 lbs |
| 10–12 mo | 23–25″ | 85–100 lbs | 21–23″ | 70–85 lbs |
| 18 mo–2 yr | 25–27.5″ | 95–115 lbs | 23–26″ | 80–95 lbs |
| 3 yrs+ | 25–27.5″ | 100–120 lbs | 23–26″ | 85–100 lbs |
Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy Growth Stages
Bernese Mountain Dog puppies grow at an almost shocking pace. If you’ve ever raised one, you know that every week brings noticeable changes, longer legs, bigger paws, and an appetite that never seems to stop.
But growth isn’t just about numbers; it’s about making sure bones, joints, and muscles develop at the right pace. That’s why keeping track of milestones matters. Here’s a Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy Growth Chart that gives a clearer picture:
| Age | Height | Weight | Notes on Growth |
| 8 weeks | 10–12″ | 15–20 lbs | Fluffy, playful, rapid early growth begins |
| 3 months | 12–15″ | 25–35 lbs | Legs look long, appetite increases |
| 6 months | 18–22″ | 50–70 lbs | Growth spurt, watch for joint strain |
| 9 months | 21–24″ | 70–90 lbs | Looks adult-like but still filling out |
| 12 months | 23–25″ | 80–100 lbs | Near adult height, still lean |
| 18 months | 24–27″ | 90–110 lbs | Body fills in, muscles strengthen |
| 2–3 years | 25–27.5″ | 100–120 lbs | Fully mature, steady frame |
How Big Should Your Space Be for a Bernese Mountain Dog
A Bernese Mountain Dog isn’t a couch-sized pet, they’re a giant breed that needs room to move.
- Indoor space: While they can adapt to smaller homes, it’s not ideal. A cramped apartment means a Berner may feel confined, and their large size makes it tough to maneuver around furniture. At minimum, they need a roomy living area with space to stretch out.
- Outdoor needs: A fenced yard is almost a must. It doesn’t need to be acres of land, but it should be secure and big enough for your Berner to roam freely. Remember, these dogs were bred to work outdoors in the Swiss Alps, they’re happiest when they have space.
- Travel and logistics: Their size also affects daily life. From choosing a vehicle big enough to transport them to finding a bed large enough for comfort, space is always a factor with Berners.
Bernese Mountain Dog Feeding According to Size
Feeding a Bernese Mountain Dog is about more than just filling a bowl, it’s about balancing nutrition with growth. Overfeeding can cause obesity or joint issues, while underfeeding can lead to weak bones and poor development. Here’s a Feeding Guide by Age and Size
| Life Stage | Cups per Day (approx.) | Notes |
| Puppy (2–6 mo) | 2–4 cups (split 3 meals) | Large-breed puppy formula for controlled growth |
| 6–12 months | 3–5 cups (split 2–3 meals) | Avoid rapid weight gain, steady bone development |
| Adult (Male) | 4–6 cups (split 2 meals) | Adjust depending on activity level |
| Adult (Female) | 3–5 cups (split 2 meals) | Usually lighter than males |
| Senior | 3–4 cups | Reduced calories to avoid obesity |
Also read: Bernese Mountain Dog Cons
Bernese Mountain Dog Weight Management
One of the most important aspects of raising a Bernese is weight control. Because of their large frame, carrying even a little extra weight can stress their hips, elbows, and heart. On the other hand, being underweight can signal health issues. Regular weigh-ins, body condition scoring, and monitoring portion sizes go a long way in keeping your Berner healthy.
| Life Stage | Ideal Weight Range | Tips to Maintain |
| Puppy | Varies by age | Controlled feeding, no “free-feeding” |
| Adult Male | 95–120 lbs | Daily exercise + quality diet |
| Adult Female | 80–100 lbs | Keep lean to reduce joint stress |
| Senior | May lose muscle | Regular vet checkups, joint supplements |
Factors That Influence Bernese Mountain Dog Size
While charts and averages are helpful, every Berner is unique. Several factors can influence just how big your pup will get:
- Genetics: The most accurate predictor of size is the size of the parents. Dogs from larger lines will naturally grow bigger.
- Nutrition: Feeding too much or too little directly impacts growth. High-quality large-breed formulas help balance bone and muscle development.
- Exercise: Berners need consistent but not excessive exercise as puppies. Too much running on hard surfaces can damage growing joints, but light activity strengthens muscles.
- Spaying/Neutering: Early procedures may affect growth plates, sometimes leading to slightly taller dogs but with weaker joint support.
- Health Conditions: Issues like thyroid imbalances or skeletal diseases can stunt or alter growth.
Aslo read: Bernese Mountain Breeds Lifespan
FAQs
Do Bernese Mountain Dogs grow too fast as puppies?
Yes, Bernese puppies grow extremely quickly, and that’s why they need large-breed puppy food. This formula ensures slow, steady development instead of rapid, uneven growth that strains joints. If they’re gaining more than a few pounds a week for several months straight, it’s worth consulting your vet.
How much should a Bernese weigh at 6 months old?
At 6 months, Berners typically weigh between 50–70 lbs, depending on gender. Males lean toward the higher end, while females are often lighter. Consistency in weight gain is more important than exact numbers, so as long as your pup is steadily filling out, they’re on track.
Is it normal for Bernese Mountain Dogs to look skinny while growing?
Yes, many Berners go through a lanky stage between 5–12 months where they look skinny or awkward. This is normal because height often develops before bulk. As long as ribs aren’t sticking out sharply and energy levels are normal, there’s no reason to worry.
Can Bernese Mountain Dogs live in apartments if they’re exercised enough?
It’s possible but not ideal. Their large size makes navigating small living spaces difficult, and they thrive with room to roam. If you do live in an apartment, you’ll need to commit to multiple long walks, daily exercise, and regular trips to open spaces.
How do I know if my Bernese is overweight?
A healthy Berner should have a visible waist when viewed from above and you should be able to feel ribs without pressing hard. If you can’t feel ribs or the waistline disappears, your dog is overweight. Regular vet checkups and body condition scoring are the best ways to monitor this.
Also read: Bernedoodle Mix Breed