Bernese Mountain Dog Weight Chart & Growth Guide

Age-by-age weight reference for Bernese Mountain Dogs — from newborn puppies through their slow, majestic journey to full adult size.

About the Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, sturdy working breed originally from the Swiss Alps. Bred as farm dogs — pulling carts, herding cattle, and acting as watchdogs — Berners are known for their striking tri-color coat (black, white, and rust), gentle temperament, and deep loyalty to their families.

Despite their imposing size, Bernese Mountain Dogs are famously calm and affectionate, earning the nickname "gentle giants." They are particularly good with children and adapt well to family life. However, their large size means they are prone to orthopedic conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia, making healthy weight management especially important.

Berners are slow to mature — most do not reach their full adult weight until 2 to 3 years of age. Rapid growth in the first year can stress developing joints, so controlled, steady weight gain during puppyhood is critical. Overfeeding puppies of this breed is a common mistake with long-term consequences.

Bernese Mountain Dog Weight Chart by Age

Adult male Berners typically weigh 38–55 kg (84–121 lbs); females are lighter at 26–40 kg (57–88 lbs). Growth continues well past 12 months.

Male Bernese Mountain Dog

AgeWeight
8 weeks7–10 kg (15–22 lbs)
3 months12–18 kg (26–40 lbs)
6 months24–32 kg (53–70 lbs)
9 months30–40 kg (66–88 lbs)
12 months35–48 kg (77–106 lbs)
18 months38–52 kg (84–115 lbs)
Adult (2+ yrs)38–55 kg (84–121 lbs)

Female Bernese Mountain Dog

AgeWeight
8 weeks6–8 kg (13–18 lbs)
3 months10–15 kg (22–33 lbs)
6 months18–26 kg (40–57 lbs)
9 months22–32 kg (48–70 lbs)
12 months26–36 kg (57–79 lbs)
18 months28–38 kg (62–84 lbs)
Adult (2+ yrs)26–40 kg (57–88 lbs)

Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Weight

  • Avoid overfeeding puppies — excessive growth pace stresses developing joints.
  • Feed a large-breed puppy formula until at least 12–18 months to control growth rate.
  • Weigh monthly and compare against breed-appropriate charts — not generic large-dog averages.
  • You should be able to feel (but not see) your Berner's ribs; their thick coat can hide excess weight.
  • Limit high-impact exercise (long runs, jumping) for puppies under 18 months to protect growth plates.
  • Ask your vet about joint supplements if your Berner is on the heavier side of normal.

Track Your Berner's Weight with PetNoter

Log monthly weigh-ins, set growth reminders, and share your Bernese Mountain Dog's health records with your vet — all in one free app.

Frequently Asked Questions

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