Alaskan MalamuteVSBernese Mountain Dog

The Alaskan Malamute is known for being affectionate, loyal, playful, while the Bernese Mountain Dog is typically described as gentle, calm, strong. These distinct personality traits mean each breed offers a different kind of companionship.

Both breeds share a similar playfulness level at 4/5, so you can expect comparable levels of fun and games from either one.

Noise-wise, the Alaskan Malamute is more vocal with a barking level of 4/5, while the Bernese Mountain Dog is quieter at 2/5. If you prefer a calmer household, the Bernese Mountain Dog may be the better choice.

The Alaskan Malamute is a large breed standing 58–64 cm (23–25 in) tall and weighing 34–45 kg (75–99 lbs). In comparison, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a large breed at 58–70 cm (23–28 in) and 32–52 kg (71–115 lbs).

These two breeds are quite similar in size, so space and food requirements will be comparable for either choice.

The Alaskan Malamute has a medium coat available in gray and white, black and white, sable and white, red and white, while the Bernese Mountain Dog sports a long coat in tricolor. Coat type significantly impacts grooming needs and shedding, which we cover below.

The Alaskan Malamute has high energy (4/5) with very high exercise needs (5/5). The Bernese Mountain Dog has moderate energy (3/5) and moderate exercise needs (3/5).

The Alaskan Malamute requires more daily activity to stay happy and healthy. Without enough exercise, they may develop destructive behaviors. The Bernese Mountain Dog is more adaptable and can get by with shorter walks and play sessions.

Both breeds shed at a similar rate (5/5), so you can expect comparable amounts of loose fur from either one.

Both breeds have similar grooming demands at 4/5. Regular brushing and occasional professional grooming visits will keep either breed looking their best.

Annual grooming costs average around $200 for the Alaskan Malamute and $250 for the Bernese Mountain Dog. Factor this into your budget when deciding between the two.

The Alaskan Malamute has a lifespan of 10–14 years, while the Bernese Mountain Dog lives 6–8 years. The Alaskan Malamute tends to live longer on average.

In terms of overall health robustness, the Alaskan Malamute scores 3/5 compared to the Bernese Mountain Dog's 1/5. The Alaskan Malamute is generally a hardier breed with fewer genetic health concerns.

Common health issues for the Alaskan Malamute include hip dysplasia, chondrodysplasia, hypothyroidism, cataracts. The Bernese Mountain Dog is prone to cancer, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat. Regular vet checkups and health screenings are essential for both breeds.

Annual vet costs average $600 for the Alaskan Malamute and $700 for the Bernese Mountain Dog. Pet insurance is worth considering for either breed.

Training comes more naturally with the Bernese Mountain Dog, which scores 4/5 for trainability. The Alaskan Malamute's score of 2/5 means you may need more patience and consistency to see results.

Both breeds match in intelligence at 4/5, so expect similar learning speeds and mental stimulation needs from either choice.

Regardless of which breed you choose, early socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training are key to raising a well-behaved dog. Puppy classes are a great investment for either breed.

Both the Alaskan Malamute and Bernese Mountain Dog score 4/5 for intelligence, putting them on equal footing mentally. They'll learn commands at similar speeds and need comparable amounts of mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved.

Both breeds share a similar intelligence profile rooted in working intelligence. They both excel when given structured tasks and thrive in obedience, agility, or service work.

For either breed, mental enrichment is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle feeders, training sessions, scent work, and interactive toys keep intelligent dogs engaged and prevent the boredom that leads to chewing, digging, or excessive barking.

The Bernese Mountain Dog edges ahead as a family dog, scoring 5/5 with children versus the Alaskan Malamute's 4/5. The Bernese Mountain Dog's gentle temperament makes it especially patient around kids.

If you have other pets, the Bernese Mountain Dog tends to get along better with other dogs (4/5) than the Alaskan Malamute (2/5). Proper introductions are still important, but the Bernese Mountain Dog is naturally more sociable with canine companions.

The initial purchase price for a Alaskan Malamute ranges from $1,200–$3,000, while a Bernese Mountain Dog typically costs $1,500–$4,000. The Bernese Mountain Dog is the more expensive breed to purchase.

Ongoing annual costs (food, vet, grooming) come to approximately $1,640 for the Alaskan Malamute and $1,910 for the Bernese Mountain Dog. The Bernese Mountain Dog costs more annually, largely because of higher food costs.

Monthly food costs run about $70 for the Alaskan Malamute and $80 for the Bernese Mountain Dog. Over a typical lifespan, the total cost of ownership can differ by thousands of dollars, so it's worth factoring in the long-term financial commitment.