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Bernese Mountain Dogs, often simply referred to as Berners, are a large breed of working dogs originating from Switzerland.
They are known for their striking tri-color coat, which typically features a base of jet black with rust-colored markings on the cheeks, eyebrows, legs, and chest, as well as white on the feet, tail tip, and chest.
They were historically used to herd cattle and pull carts, but over the years have grown in popularity as household pets — according to figures from the American Kennel Club, Bernese Mountain Dogs are ranked as the 22nd most popular dog in the US.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to skeletal issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia. It’s, therefore, crucial to choose a dog food that has appropriate and balanced levels of calcium and phosphorus to support healthy bone growth. Look for recipes which contain glucosamine and chondroitin.
Gastric torsion, also called bloat, affects large chested breeds such as Bernese Mountain dogs, it can trigger gastric dilatation and volvulus, or GDV, a potentially deadly condition where the stomach rotates and twists on itself.
Feeding two or three smaller meals throughout the day and using a slow feeder bowl, which forces your dog to eat only a few pieces of food at a time, will help prevent this condition.
It’s also important not to exercise your dog within an hour of eating.
A Bernese Mountain Dog’s diet should be formulated for a large-sized breed with high energy and exercise needs. However, remember each dog is an individual, and their nutritional requirements may vary. It’s always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian to create a personalized and balanced diet plan.
Below, you can see our recommendations of the best foods for Bernese Mountain Dogs to help you choose the right food for your pet.
Best Dog Food for Bernese Mountain Dogs January 2025
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best dog food brands for Bernese Mountain Dogs for January 2025.
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Best Dry Food for Bernese Mountain Dogs
Now Fresh Grain Free Large Breed Adult
Now Fresh Grain Free Large Breed dog food received the Advisor’s highest: rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 11 recipes in our review of this product range and contains high-quality protein and easily digestible fresh turkey, salmon and duck to support muscle strength, while glucosamine and chondroitin enhance joint health and mobility in large dogs.
Now Fresh Grain Free Large Breed Adult derives the bulk of its protein from turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 14.4% fat and 47.6% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.
Read our review of the full Now Fresh Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health
- No artificial flavors, colors or preservatives
- Large kibble for slow chewing
Main Ingredients De-boned turkey, whole dried egg, potatoes, peas, potato flour Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For All Adult Bernese Mountain Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dogs love this food. It was one of the best dog foods I have ever given my fur baby (dog)."
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Best Wet Food For Bernese Mountain Dogs
Open Farm Harvest Chicken Rustic Stew
Open Farm Harvest Chicken Rustic Stew is a wet food ideal for adult Bernese Mountain dogs. It is made from human-grade ingredients featuring ethically sourced meat, fruits, and vegetables to ensure a complete and balanced meal that promotes overall health.
It is one of six recipes in our review of this product range made by Open Farm and received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
This recipe derives the bulk of its protein from chicken, which is naturally rich in the 10 essential amino acids required by a dog to sustain life. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 44.4% protein, 27.8% fat and 19.8% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
Read our review of the full Open Farm Rustic Stews Dog Food range here
Things we like
- Human-grade
- 100% traceable ingredients
- Non-GMO ingredients
Main Ingredients Humanely raised chicken, chicken bone broth, pumpkin, carrots, green beans Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 44.4% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For All Adult Bernese Mountain Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at openfarm.com"We have been struggling with finding our dog healthy, yummy dog food for a long time! I came across this brand in a review of the best dog foods in regards to organic, healthy ingredients. He loves it!! We are very pleased, as well."
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Best Fresh Food For Bernese Mountain Dogs
The Pets Table Fresh Beef Stew with Carrots
The Pets Table Fresh Beef Stew with Carrots received the Dog Food Advisor’s second rating: 4.5 stars.
This dog food subscription service is a great option for pet parents who want to introduce their Bernese Mountain Dog to fresh food. The minimally processed recipes contain high-quality ingredients and no preservatives or fillers.
This particular recipe derives the bulk of its protein from beef, which contains essential vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. A dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 46.4% protein, 35.7% fat and 9.9% estimated carbohydrates, with a fat-to-protein ratio of 77%.
Read our review of the full The Pets Table Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Human-grade
- Reviewed by Board Certified Vet nutritionist
- Made fresh with no preservatives or fillers
Main Ingredients Beef, chickpeas, eggs, green beans, blueberries Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 46.4% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All Bernese Mountain Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at thepetstable.com"Beckham has been on the fresh plan for a little over a week. He is excited to eat his food, his energy levels are great, coat is shiny, and he has perfect #2's"
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Best Food For Bernese Mountain Dog Puppies
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Chicken & Brown Rice Large Breed Puppy
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Chicken & Brown Rice Large Breed Puppy received the Dog Food Advisor’s second rating: 4.5 stars.
Blue Buffalo prioritizes real meat as the first ingredient and does not include any by-products. This particular recipe provides your Bernese puppy with a healthy start, incorporating fish oils that are naturally rich in EPA and DHA, two important types of omega-3 fatty acids to support healthy muscle and bone development.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Chicken & Brown Rice Large Breed Puppy derives the bulk of its protein from chicken and dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 28.9% protein, 16.7% fat and 46.4% estimated carbohydrates, with a fat-to-protein ratio of 58%.
Read our review of the full Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Contains no BHA or high-risk preservatives
- Natural ingredients
- Formulated with veterinarians and pet nutritionists
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, oatmeal, peas Type Grain-Inclusive Protein Percentage 28.9% AAFCO Standards Growth Best For Bernese Mountain Puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Easily digested, proper ingredients, gives the needed energy to keep up with a fast-growing puppy, her coat is glowing and smooth, and obviously good taste!"
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Best Affordable Food For Bernese Mountain Dogs
Merrick Grain-Free Large Breed Real Chicken and Sweet Potato
Merrick Grain-Free Large Breed Real Chicken and Sweet Potato provides high-quality ingredients at a price that is more accessible than some premium brands.
This 5 star rated food is high in protein and includes sweet potatoes, peas, apples, and blueberries. These fruits and vegetables offer antioxidants that help support disease resistance. The significant protein content is designed to help larger breed dogs maintain lean muscle mass.
This particular recipe derives the bulk of its protein from chicken which contains essential amino acids that help promote healthy muscles, skin, and coat. A dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 33.7% protein, 16.9% fat and 41.4% estimated carbohydrates, with a fat-to-protein ratio of 50%.
Read our review of the full Merrick Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Large size kibble for large breeds
- Glucosamine & chondroitin to support hips and joints of larger dogs
- USDA certified
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, sweet potatoes, potatoes, peas Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 33.7% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult Bernese Mountain Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Just switched big man over and he loves it. He eating better then ever and we can already see a difference in his energy!"
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Best Food For Bernese Mountain Dogs With Allergies
Just Food For Dogs Pantry Fresh Joint & Skin Support
JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Joint & Skin Support received the Dog Food Advisor’s second rating: 4.5 stars.
Pork is a novel protein source that is especially suitable for sensitive dogs with allergies or food intolerances.
These out-of-the-box meals, which can be stored safely for up to two years (refrigeration is only required once opened), are made from 100% human-grade ingredients and contain no preservatives.
This particular recipe derives the bulk of its protein from pork and dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 40.9% protein, 11.4% fat and 39.7% estimated carbohydrates, with a fat-to-protein ratio of 28%.
Read our review of the full JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Dog Food range here
Things we like
- Human-grade
- No preservatives
- Vet-developed recipes for specific health needs
Main Ingredients Pork loin & tenderloin, quinoa, kale, carrots, fuji apples Type Grain-Inclusive Protein Percentage 40.9% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult Bernese Mountain Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at justfoodfordogs.com"My girl has bad allergies. Diet adjustments and monthly shots were no longer working. Tried this with a lot of skepticism. After a few weeks all the licking and scratching have stopped. She also has more energy and loves the food! "
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are a large and sturdy dog breed with a friendly and calm disposition. The breed’s name comes from Berne, the Swiss city where the dog originated from.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big are Bernese Mountain Dogs?
Adult male Bernese Mountain Dogs typically stand 25 to 28 inches (63 to 72 cm) tall at the shoulder and weigh around 80 to 115 pounds (36 to 52 kg). Females are slightly smaller, usually at 23 to 26 inches (58 to 66 cm) tall and weigh 70 to 95 pounds (31 to 43 kg).
What is the temperament of Bernese Mountain Dogs?
The Bernese have a wonderful temperament. They are known for being loyal, affectionate, eager to please and intelligent (they are slow to mature both physically and mentally). They do well with children of all ages and adults, living with the family and participating in family activities is when they are at their happiest.
How much exercise do Bernese Mountain Dogs need?
Because the Berner is a working dog they have plenty of energy. In addition to playing in the yard, ensure they get a minimum of 30 minutes vigorous exercise a day, three times that keeps them in top condition.
What health conditions can affect Bernese Mountain Dogs?
Like many large dog breeds, Bernese Mountain Dogs are susceptible to certain health problems, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and certain types of cancer.
Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet are important for maintaining their health and well-being.
Final word
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