Straight answers on kids, other dogs, apartments and shedding, from the American Kennel Club's own ratings of the Bernese Mountain Dog. We only answer where the rating is clear.
Yes. The AKC rates the Bernese Mountain Dog 5 out of 5 for being good with young children and 5 out of 5 for affection with family. Any dog still needs supervision around small children, and children need to learn how to treat a dog.
AKC rating: Good with young children 5/5 · Affectionate with family 5/5 · AKC Bernese Mountain Dog page
Generally yes. The AKC rates the Bernese Mountain Dog 5 out of 5 for getting along with other dogs. Early socialisation and careful introductions still matter.
AKC rating: Good with other dogs 5/5 · AKC Bernese Mountain Dog page
It is a hard fit for most apartments. The AKC rates the Bernese Mountain Dog 4 out of 5 for energy and 3 out of 5 for barking, and it is a giant breed. It does best with space, a yard or a very active owner.
AKC rating: Energy level 4/5 · Barking level 3/5 · AKC Bernese Mountain Dog page
Yes. The AKC rates the Bernese Mountain Dog 5 out of 5 for shedding, so expect hair on clothes and furniture and plan on regular brushing (the AKC rates its grooming needs 3 out of 5).
AKC rating: Shedding level 5/5 · Coat grooming frequency 3/5 · AKC Bernese Mountain Dog page
Not answered here: first-time owners, barking — the AKC rating sits in the middle or doesn't match our own, so the honest answer is "it depends on the individual dog". Read the full Bernese Mountain Dog guide.
Which breeds suit kids, apartments, first-time owners →
Breed ratings describe the typical dog. Every dog is an individual, and upbringing, training and socialisation matter as much as breed. Scores from the American Kennel Club, last checked November 3, 2026.
