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How Fast Can a Bernese Mountain Dog Run? (Quick Answers)

Running is known as one of the core characteristics of any dog breed. It is in their natural instinct to be enthusiastic about running as their ancestors were hunters. This is true for most dog breeds. But the speed and pace of the running differ from dog to dog.

Bernese Mountain dogs are very cool-tempered dogs who love to just lay around and go on hikes if they must. This laid-back behavior makes them so adorable.

How fast can a Bernese Mountain Dog run?

The Bernese Mountain dogs are one of the slowest runners. These dogs never seem to be in a hurry. The fastest a Saint Bernese Mountain dog will go is 15 mph. During cold weather, the dogs can run up to 4 miles. This changes with the weather. In hot temperatures, the dogs aren’t as fast.

Bernese Mountain is known as one of the slowest dog breeds in the world. Their top speed is only 15 mph. Their top speed is most of the time an average for the fast running dogs. And this speed is achieved when everything is in their favor.

There are many health issues when it comes to the Bernese Mountain dogs. They have some issues in their ligament, joints, and bones. This is why they are reluctant towards exercise and running from a very early age.

Usually, the dog won’t engage in long runs until they are adults or fully grown.

During the cold weather, the Saint Bernese Mountain dog will run up to 4 miles on their own. Even though that is not much compared to the other dogs running speed and distance covered. But for a lazy dog breed like the Saint Bernese, 4 miles is a lot.

What is the top speed of a Bernese Mountain Dog? 

The fastest speed of a Bernese Mountain dog is 15 mph. The dog breed is not on the sporty side. Nor are they natural runners. In fact, they are one of the slowest dog breeds. The dogs of this breed are not even interested in running fast or longer.

Bernese Mountain dogs are not exactly sporty or the running type. The dogs tend to be a bit laid back. So even their fastest is somewhat an average compared to the other dog breeds.

15 mph is not too much but in contrast to how the dog breed feels about running, it is good enough.

Are Bernese Mountain Dogs good runners? 

The Bernese Mountain dogs are not exactly the running type of dogs. They can run and maybe they will run with you. But the dogs tend to not run on their own. This does not exactly qualify as good runners as dogs.

While most dogs are excited about running, the Saint Bernese do not share the same mindset.

There are many health issues related to the dog breed. These dogs tend to avoid running and any other exercises until they are fully grown, which is around 2 years of age. This is why they develop a sense of not wanting to run. But they can and will run with you when needed.

Do Bernese Mountain Dogs like to run? 

The dog breed has a high level of energy, but when given the opportunity the Saint Bernese Mountain dogs will choose not to run and play. They can run and will if it is a part of the routine. But it is very difficult to make these dogs run of their own will.

Saint Bernese Mountain dogs are very much cool-tempered and they tend to be on the cooler side of their temperament. This makes them very reluctant to run and play as well. It does not necessarily mean that the dogs don’t like to run.

They are just not enthusiastic about running as much as other dogs.

How far can Bernese Mountain Dogs run?  

On a good cold day, the Bernese Mountain dog can run up to 4 miles with no problems. This distance differs based on the weather. Like on a hot day, the dog will not run as far, only half of the miles maybe.

Many other things depend on the running distance of the Bernese. Their health issues are perhaps the most important factor. The dogs have ligament and joint issues. So they can’t run at a stretch for a long path.

The dogs need breaks and rest time so they don’t get injured or anything.

How long can Bernese Mountain Dogs run? 

The running time of the Saint Bernese differs according to the health and stamina of the dog you have. Some dogs of the breed can run for an hour without breaks while other dogs might have issues with that time and they may need breaks.

But on average, it is healthy for a Saint Bernese to run for about an hour daily.

If your dog does not have any medical conditions and issues, it is in its best condition to run for at least an hour. They might not be willing to at first, but with practice and regular routine runs, they will get used to it.

Can you run with a Bernese Mountain Dog? 

With the right weather and environment, you can easily enjoy running with your Bernese Mountain dog. They actually enjoy the company of their owners when they run. It is a good motivator for them and if it is turned into a routine it will be best for the both of you.

The Bernese Mountain dogs are not exactly fast and enthusiastic runners. So you don’t have to worry about weighing your dog down while running. They will adjust with your pace of running. This routine of running with you may actually make them interested in running.

Are Bernese Mountain Dogs good running partners? 

The dog breed is not much interested in running. But if you make running a regular routine for you and your dog, they just might become the most ideal dogs for running. Their stamina and interest in running depend on the health condition along with the exercise of the dog.

If Bernese has no issues with their health then you should start training them to run with you. This routine makes the dog interested in running. And if they are on board with it, then the dog will make a great running partner. All these depend on the dog itself.

Are Bernese Mountain Dogs good off-leash?

Bernese Mountain dogs are such dogs who are among very few, are good off-leash. They have a very low prey drive and are very easy to train. This is why most of the dogs of the breed tend to be very gentle and obedient even without their leash.

The Bernese Mountain dogs tend not to “follow their nose” when they are let off-leash. These very laid-back dogs are likely to follow you wherever you go and will follow your instructions, with or without their leash on.

Are Bernese Mountain Dogs athletic? 

While the Saint Bernese enjoy hiking and strolls, they are not exactly on the athletic side per say. The dogs of this breed are very much reluctant to exercise and will not start running until the age of two years because of health conditions. But it’s not like they won’t run and play.

Just not on their own that’s all.

An athletic dog is always enthusiastic about running, exercises, and playtime. But as for the Saint Bernese Mountain dogs, the breed is naturally of cool temperament. They can be very reluctant to exercise.

And running is okay with them as long as it is a routine or at a moderate level.

How active are Bernese Mountain Dogs? 

The dog breed, Bernese Mountain, is naturally very chill and lazy. They are not as active as any other dog breed. Most of the time, the dog will choose to lay down instead of running or doing any sort of exercise. They are good for hiking and long walks, however.

The dogs tend to be okay with low-energy activities.

It is not in the nature of the Bernese to be active and enthusiastic about exercises. Though they have a lot of energy, they still prefer to store it and take a nap maybe. Any low-effort activity like hiking and long walks is okay with them.

But vigorous exercises are not what they would like to participate in

How energetic are Bernese Mountain Dogs?

When it comes to being energetic it can be said that the Bernese Mountain dogs are moderately energetic. They do not have the enthusiasm to be constantly energetic or to show persistent energy.

Though they have a good amount of energy saved, they will choose to keep them stored.

The dog breed needs 30 minutes of exercise daily to release the energy stored in them. An hour or more will be great as well. With access energy stored in them, they might take it out elsewhere. Even so, the dog breed is naturally of moderate energy.

They are less likely to get aggressive in such cases.

Final thoughts:

While it is a given that most dogs will be fast runners, it is not the case for the Bernese Mountain dogs. These dogs are known as one of the slowest runners in the world. 15 mph being their highest speed, the dog is not known for its running skills. They are big dogs but not runners.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Have Double Coat? Do They Shed?

Are Bernese Mountain Dogs Good for Hiking?

Can Bernese Mountain Dogs Live in Apartments?

Why Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Sleep on Their Back?

When Do Bernese Mountain Dog Puppies Lose Their Teeth?

How Far Can a Bernese Mountain Dog Walk?