About the Breed

Mountain Mastiff (aka Bernese Mastiff)

Mastiff de Montagne

• Feeding: 4.5 – 6 cups of high-quality kibble per day

• Lifespan: 7 – 12 years

• Weight:  90lbs – 160lbs (with exceptions as small as 80lbs, and as large as 200lbs)

• Height:  28-38 inches

• Exercise Needs: Two 20-30 minute walks per day

Mountain Mastiffs are a recognized giant designer dog breed, created by crossing the Bernese Mountain Dog with any type of Mastiff.  The Mountain Mastiff is an extremely loyal, family-centered dog, with a tendency for suspicion toward strangers.  Typically, they are excellent with smaller animals and children in their family, though their large size can lead to accidentally bumping over smaller children, so they should be supervised when with young kids.

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Mountain Mastiffs are occasional barkers, who bark to alert their owners of “suspicious” or exciting activity.  They are protective and make great guard dogs, their size and powerful bark often being enough of a deterrent to potential threats.

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Known for being sensitive, docile and kind, the nature of the Mountain Mastiff makes it an excellent family dog.  Its temperament can be described as loving, loyal, alert, active, and protective.  Because they need to be close to their family, they should be kept as a house pet or not at all.  The Mountain Mastiff is an intelligent dog that is motivated to please its family, but it can sometimes show a stubborn streak as well.  Early training is imperative to this breed, socialization and obedience should be a priority during puppy-hood.

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The Mountain Mastiff is content living in small apartments, or large country homes.  In general, a couch-loving animal, they settle down quickly while inside, as long as they receive their minimum exercise requirements daily.

The Mountain Mastiff is an active breed, but they do not have a high endurance.  Great for climbing and jumping, but not built for running, they make a better companion for hikers than they do for joggers.  Many Mountain Mastiffs enjoy swimming, though they often have dense muscle & bone structure that makes them sink – A doggie life jacket is a great idea!

Mountain Mastiffs have various coat types, some with short coats, others with long.  Whether they have an undercoat or not is not dependent on their coat length, and some with short fur may have an undercoat, while some with long fur may not.  Mountain Mastiffs with an undercoat tend to overheat in the hot days of summer, and should have access to someplace cool (NEVER SHAVE YOUR MOUNTAIN MASTIFF!!!).  Mountain Mastiffs without undercoats should be provided a coat in cold weather, regardless of coat length.  Most Mountain Mastiffs LOVE playing in the snow.