Rottweiler vs. Bernese Mountain Dog: 9 Key Differences

When exploring canine diversity, the Rottweiler and the Bernese Mountain Dog emerge as two distinct breeds, each possessing unique characteristics that set them apart. From physical attributes to temperament traits and origins, these canines showcase a captivating contrast that reflects their breeds. Let’s explore the key differences between the Rottweiler and the Bernese Mountain Dog.

9 Key Differences Between the Rottweiler and Bernese Mountain Dog

Comparing the Rottweiler and Bernese Mountain Dog

Origins

When comparing canine heritage, the Rottweiler and the Bernese Mountain Dog come from different European descents. Each with its own historical narrative and geographical beginnings. The story of their origins offers a captivating glimpse into the past, shedding light on the circumstances that molded these remarkable breeds into the companions we know today.

Rottweiler Origin

The Rottweiler’s journey through time involves an enduring legacy. This breed’s origins can be traced back to ancient Rome, where their ancestors served as loyal companions to the people of the Roman Empire. They became indispensable as cattle drovers and guardians, utilizing their innate instincts to guide livestock and protect them from harm. In addition to driving and guarding livestock, they also protected their master’s assets and pulled carts.

More specifically, the breed originated in Rottweil, Germany. Here, the Rottweiler’s unique blend of strength, loyalty, and versatility took form.

Bernese Mountain Dog Origin

Nestled amidst the picturesque Swiss Alps, the Bernese Mountain Dog’s history is intertwined with the rugged landscapes they once called home. These dogs originated from the canton of Bern, Switzerland, around 2,000 years ago. People bred these dogs to tackle the demanding tasks of farm life in the mountainous terrain. They served as all-purpose farm dogs, guarding property and driving dairy cattle long distances, particularly from the farm to the alpine pastures. People also used these dogs to transport carts with goods such as milk and cheese. Their origins date back centuries ago when Roman mastiffs were brought to the region and crossed with local breeds.

The Bernese Mountain Dog’s ancestral responsibilities were vast and vital. They were trusted with guarding homesteads, herding cattle, and hauling goods through the challenging Alpine terrain. Their thick double coat provided insulation against the harsh climate, allowing them to excel in their multifaceted roles. As time passed, their gentle disposition and affectionate nature endeared them to families, and they transitioned from being solely working dogs to beloved companions.

Overview of Origins

The origins of the Rottweiler and the Bernese Mountain Dog are emblematic of their respective regions’ history and initial needs. The Rottweiler and Bernese Mountain Dog served as brave guardians, drivers of livestock, and cart drivers. However, the finer details varied greatly by location, livestock, breed development, and evolving purpose and companionship.

The intricate threads of history have shaped these breeds’ physical attributes, temperaments, and roles in human society. Today, both breeds reflect their humble beginnings while having adapted to modern roles as beloved family companions, loyal protectors, and even therapy dogs.

Generations of dogs’ and humans’ intertwined lives have woven a narrative of strength, loyalty, and enduring companionship within each breed that spans centuries.

Appearances

Rottweilers and Bernese Mountain Dogs have distinct differences in their coat colors, patterns, and textures.

Rottweiler Appearance

The Rottweiler’s appearance is a harmonious blend of strength and elegance. With a sturdy build, these canines exude power and capability. Standing at a shoulder height ranging from 22 to 27 inches (56 to 69 centimeters), Rottweilers command a presence that is both imposing and dignified. Their weight, typically ranging from 80 to 135 pounds (36 to 61 kilograms), further emphasizes their substantial physique.

The Rottweiler’s coat, marked by its practicality, consists of a short, dense, and smooth texture. Their coat serves as functional armor, providing insulation and protection while requiring minimal maintenance and experiencing moderate shedding. Their distinctive coat colors are a hallmark of their identity. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), they have a jet-black base with striking mahogany, tan, or rust markings above the eyes, on the cheeks, muzzle, chest, and legs. This stark contrast adds to their exceptional aesthetic appeal.

Bernese Mountain Dog Appearance

The Bernese Mountain Dog reigns as a goofy yet regal figure. This breed’s appearance is characterized by its adaptability to the rugged terrain and harsh climate of the Swiss Alps. These dogs stand between 23 and 27.5 inches (58 to 70 centimeters) at the shoulder, showcasing a substantial and graceful stature. Their weight, ranging from 70 to 120 pounds (32 to 52 kilograms), underscores their robust and agile build.

The Bernese Mountain Dog’s most distinctive feature is its luxurious double coat. Their coat is medium-length and serves as a shield against the elements. The tricolor coat pattern is a striking visual aspect, featuring a deep black base adorned with rich rust and white markings or tan and white markings on the chest, face, and legs. This combination of colors creates a symphony of hues that is both captivating and consistent within the breed.

Overview of Appearances

The visual contrasts between Rottweilers and Bernese Mountain Dogs reflect their individuality. The Rottweiler has a powerful build, short coat, and distinctive markings. On the other hand, the Bernese Mountain Dog’s majestic, lush coat and tricolor palette are consistent within its breed.

While their appearances diverge significantly, both breeds share a common thread of distinctive colors and patterns within their breeds. From the iconic markings of the Rottweiler to the regal elegance of the Bernese Mountain Dog, their appearances tell a story of evolution and adaptation.

Social Characteristics

These two breeds, with their individualistic traits, exemplify the fascinating diversity that exists within the canine world. From their temperamental nuances to their social requirements, these dogs reflect the intricate interplay between genetics, upbringing, and their unique roles in human history.

Rottweiler Social Characteristics

The Rottweiler’s temperament strikes a balance between protectiveness and playfulness. Characterized by their loyalty, confidence, and protective nature, Rottweilers are known for forming deep bonds with their families. Their innate guarding instincts, honed through generations of serving as protectors, make them exceptional watchdogs. Despite their imposing appearance, Rottweilers often exhibit a calm and composed demeanor, displaying self-assuredness and playfulness in their interactions.

When it comes to social needs, Rottweilers thrive on meaningful connections with their human companions. Proper socialization from an early age is essential to ensure their confidence around strangers and other animals. While they are not aggressive, their protective nature may manifest if they sense a threat to their family. A well-raised Rottweiler can coexist harmoniously in a family setting, making them both formidable protectors and loving, loyal companions.

Bernese Mountain Dog Social Characteristics

The Bernese Mountain Dog’s temperament is a symphony of gentleness and affection. Renowned for their friendly disposition, these dogs radiate warmth and love towards their human counterparts. Their history as working dogs in mountainous landscapes has instilled in them a strong sense of responsibility and loyalty, making them exemplary family pets. They often forge a deep bond with children, embodying their role as nurturing companions.

In terms of social needs, Bernese Mountain Dogs thrive on companionship. They cherish being a part of the family unit. Moreover, they are known to display a friendly attitude toward strangers and other animals. Early socialization plays a crucial role in shaping their well-rounded temperament and awareness. Their adaptable nature enables them to transition well from varying environments.

Overview of Social Characteristics

The temperamental differences between Rottweilers and Bernese Mountain Dogs differ in precise ways, but they also share similar qualities. Rottweilers showcase more qualities of bravery and loyalty. On the other hand, Bernese Mountain Dogs exhibit a more gentle and nurturing spirit. Both breeds, however, make incredible family dogs. They both can be playful, silly, protective, intelligent, and self-aware.

Though every breed can show individual consistencies in temperament, each breed’s temperament is not solely dictated by genetics. Temperament is also largely influenced by training, socialization, nurturing, and overall environment, all of which also mold their behaviors into the familiar traits that endear them to their owners.

Health Factors

Each breed depicts specific health concerns, which are largely influenced by genetics.

Life Expectancy

With their robust build, Rottweilers tend to have an average life expectancy of 9 to 10 years. This lifespan, while shorter than some similar-sized breeds, is a reflection of their unique build, size, and genetics and the potential health challenges that come with it.

In contrast, Bernese Mountain Dogs exhibit an ever so slightly shorter life span, typically living between 7 to 10 years. As with any breed, their unique build, size, and genetics contribute to their unique health journey.

While these numbers serve as general guidelines, attentive care, a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and early detection of health issues can often extend the quality of life for any breed of dog.

Common Health and Genetic Concerns

Both breeds have their share of potential health concerns consistent within their breed. Routine health screenings, food management, and preventive care play pivotal roles in ensuring their well-being. Furthermore, responsible breeding practices and regular veterinary check-ups are essential to detect and manage any potential health issues.

Due to their genetic makeup, Rottweilers are prone to conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia, allergies, heart disorders, and certain types of cancers, including osteosarcoma. 

Bernese Mountain Dogs face their own set of health challenges. Given their considerable size, large breeds like Bernese Mountain Dogs are susceptible to musculoskeletal issues like hip and elbow dysplasia. Additionally, they are prone to certain types of cancer, with histiocytic sarcoma being a particular concern. Other health concerns specific to this breed include progressive retinal atrophy, bloat, and Von Willebrand’s disease.

Nurturing Wellness

Nurturing the health of Rottweilers and Bernese Mountain Dogs requires an approach that spans genetics, nutrition, exercise, and attentive care. Responsible breeding practices that prioritize genetic diversity and health can mitigate the risk of hereditary issues. A balanced diet, tailored to their unique needs and size, fuels their vitality and supports overall well-being. Regular exercise is paramount for maintaining a healthy weight and preventing joint issues. Moderate and consistent physical activity keeps muscles toned, joints limber, and minds engaged. Regular veterinary check-ups and early detection and intervention empower owners to address health concerns proactively.

Conclusion

Rottweilers and Bernese Mountain Dogs stand as two remarkable breeds, each with its own unique story of origin, appearance, temperament, and health. These two breeds, diverse in many traits yet united in others, offer a captivating contrast that reflects their distinct breeds.

Originating from the Roman Era in Germany, the Rottweiler’s heritage is one of strength and loyalty, and they embody protection and poise. They have a muscular build and a sleek black coat adorned with iconic tan, rust, or mahogany markings. In contrast, the Bernese Mountain Dog, originating from the mountainous regions of Switzerland, wears a lush tricolor coat of black, rust or tan, and white. Their gentle disposition and nurturing nature endear them as affectionate family companions.

As for health, both breeds are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Rottweilers are also prone to heart issues, allergies, and certain types of cancer. Overall, Rottweilers live 9 to 10 years on average. Bernese Mountain Dogs face a variety of other health issues, including progressive retinal atrophy, bloat, Von Willebrand’s disease, and specific types of cancer. Their lifespan averages 7 to 10 years. Both breeds can live long, healthy lives with responsible care, vigilant attention, and preventive measures.

Overall, their distinct attributes and shared bonds illuminate the multifaceted relationships between breeds and their relationships with humans.

What Dog is Bigger than a Bernese Mountain Dog?

The Bernese mountain dog is one of four different breeds of Sennenhund dogs that are native to Switzerland and the Swiss Alps. Each of these breeds has ancestry in the Roman mastiff breed. The sizing on these dogs is split, with half being on the smaller side, and the other half being on the larger side. The Bernese mountain dog is a fairly large dog, but it isn’t the largest of the breeds. The other three Sennenhunds are:

• Appenzeller Mountain Dog
• Entlebucher Mountain Dog
• Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Each of these Sennenhund dogs has characteristics and traits that are different from each other but most of all is their sizing. They range from medium to large and the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is the largest of them all. The males have height ranges from 25.5 to 28.5 inches, with weights ranging from 90 to 140 pounds, while the females have heights that range from 23.5 to 27 inches and weights that range from 80 to 110 pounds.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Seregraff/Shutterstock.com