Bernese Mountain Dog Versus Japanese Spitz. Differences and Similarities

Last Updated: Nov 07, 2022

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Bernese Mountain Dog Versus Japanese Spitz: Introduction

Are you thinking of getting a new pet dog, and you have narrowed down your choices to the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz? Well, you have come to the right place. Because in this article, we will provide you with a detailed comparison of these two dog breeds to help you decide which of the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz better suits you.

We will provide you a detailed discussion and comparison of dog attributes such as intelligence, price, general health, friendliness, etc, for both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz.

Furthermore, we will let you know which one of the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz is better suited for new dog owners, for owners with kids, for owners that live in apartments, for owners with dog allergies, etc.

Importantly, we did some analysis and calculation and we obtained a number that we call the Better-Pet Score™ for both the Bernese Mountain Dog and for the Japanese Spitz. The dog breed with the higher Better-Pet score is the `better` pet. We hope that these Better-Pet Scores will provide you with more insight into deciding which pet to get between the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz.

Our only goal here is to help you make a well-thought-out decision on your next long-term companion, be it the Bernese Mountain Dog or the Japanese Spitz.

Bernese Mountain Dog versus Japanese Spitz

Bernese Mountain Dog versus Japanese Spitz: Overview

A very important difference between the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz is the size difference between the two dog breeds. The Bernese Mountain Dog is a giant-sized dog while the Japanese Spitz is a small-sized dog.

Furthermore, the Bernese Mountain Dog belongs to the Working Dogs group. Working Dogs were developed to assist humans in some capacity – including pulling sleds and carts, guarding flocks, guarding homes, and protecting their families. Breeds in the Working Group are known for their imposing stature, strength, intelligence, and fearless. Because of their size and strength, working dogs require a structured home life and firm, fair, consistent training by someone who can provide leadership without resorting to anger or physical force.

On the other hand, the Japanese Spitz belongs to the Companion Dogs group. Companion Dogs were bred to be companions for humans. Their main goal in life is to be with people, and they will be very sad if left to themselves for long hours day after day.

Bernese Mountain Dog versus Japanese Spitz: Comparison Table

The table below compares the Bernese Mountain Dog to the Japanese Spitz based on different important factors such as Price, Health, Kid-friendliness, etc.

When a dog breed scores higher for a factor than the other dog breed, the box of the breed that scores higher is shaded green and the box of the breed that scores lower is shaded red. When there is no difference between the breeds for a particular factor then the box is shaded gray for both pets. Also, when the factor is not important in picking a pet, or when the factor cannot be compared between two pets, the box for the factor is shaded gray for both pets

Most of the factors in the table for each dog breed are ranked on a scale of 1 to 5. “1” means “worst”, and “5” means “best”.

However, some factors such as “Price”, “Average Lifespan”, etc. cannot be on a scale of 1 to 5, so they are not on a scale of 1 to 5 in the comparison table.

Later in this article, we will further explain each factor as it applies to the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz

FactorBernese Mountain DogJapanese Spitz
Adapts Well To Apartment Living1/54/5
Tolerates Being Alone1/52/5
Tolerates Hot Weather1/53/5
General Health1/53/5
Good For Novice Owners2/54/5
Height23 to 28 inches10 to 16 inches
Dog Friendly3/54/5
Easy To Groom3/54/5
Tendency NOT to Wander3/54/5
Calmness/ Low Vigor3/54/5
Minimal Exercise Needs3/53/5
Easygoing2/53/5
Does NOT Drool2/55/5
Potential NOT to Gain Weight2/54/5
Easy To Train4/54/5
Intelligence4/54/5
Does NOT Bark or Howl2/52/5
NOT Rambunctious2/53/5
Potential For Playfulness4/54/5
Tolerates Cold Weather5/54/5
Affectionate With Family5/54/5
Kid-Friendly5/55/5
Friendly Toward Strangers5/52/5
Does NOT Shed1/53/5
Does NOT chew on things1/54/5
Low Prey Drive1/54/5
Life Span6 to 10 years10 to 16 years
Weight70 to 115 pounds11 to 20 pounds
Average Lifespan8.0 years13.0 years
Average Price$2390$1740
Price Range$1500 – $2995$1500 – $2150
Common Health Problems and Recommended Health Tests
  • AKC DNA Profile
  • Cardiac Evaluation
  • Degeneratative Mylopathy (DM) DNA results for both SOD1-A and SOD1-B, or an at-risk result for either SOD1-A or SOD1-B registered with the OFA.
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Eye Examination
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • No Data
    *Data from AKC.org (The American Kennel Club),dogtime.com, OFA.org (The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals), petcalculator.com, wikipedia.org, ATTS.org (The American Temperament Test Society)

    Next, we added the scores of the factors that can be added together for the Bernese Mountain Dog in the table (that is, `Ease of Grooming` score + `General Health` score + `Calmness` score + …etc) and we compared it to the corresponding total score for the Japanese Spitz. We call these total scores the Better-Pet Scores, as we mentioned earlier. We called this score the Better-Pet score because the better dog breed will have a higher score. This is because the pet will the higher score will have minimal needs and be easier to have as a pet.

    The Better-Pet score for the Bernese Mountain Dog is 66 out of 125 while the Better-Pet score for the Japanese Spitz is 90 out of 125.

    Despite the higher Better-Pet score of the Japanese Spitz, we still believe that the Bernese Mountain Dog is a better pet than the Japanese Spitz.

    This is because Bernese Mountain Dogs are much cuter but you cannot put a score on cuteness. If you could put a score on cuteness, then the Bernese Mountain Dog will come out on top.

    Also, we are biased in favor of the Bernese Mountain Dog :-). We are for the Bernese Mountain Dog. So get a Bernese Mountain Dog!

    Bernese Mountain Dog versus Japanese Spitz

    The Most Remarkable Differences Between the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz

    Below is a list of where the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz are most different:

  • Bernese Mountain Dogs do not adapt well to apartment living. However, Japanese Spitzs adapt well to apartment living.
  • Bernese Mountain Dogs have a very high tendency to drool. However, Japanese Spitzs do not have the tendency to drool.
  • Bernese Mountain Dogs are very friendly towards strangers. However, Japanese Spitzs are not very friendly towards strangers.
  • Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to nip and chew at things. However, Japanese Spitzs are not prone to nip and chew at things.
  • Bernese Mountain Dogs have a high prey drive. They do not get along well with other pets. However, Japanese Spitzs have a very low prey drive. This means they get along well with other pets.
  • The Similarities Between the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz

    The Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz are very similar in certain aspects. Below is the list of where the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz are most similar:

  • Both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz do not like to be left alone.
  • Both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz are easily disturbed by noise in their environments. They are sensitive to human tone. They will understand the tone of your voice when you try to correct their behaviors with a firm tone.
  • Both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz are very easy to train.
  • Both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz are highly intelligent.
  • Both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz are highly vocal. They have the tendency to bark and howl.
  • Both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz have very high energy levels. They need a lot of exercise time to release their high energy.
  • Both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz are very playful.
  • Both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz can tolerate cold weather.
  • Both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.
  • Both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.
  • Size Comparison of the Bernese Mountain Dog versus Japanese Spitz

    Now, let us discuss the difference in size between the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz.

    The Bernese Mountain Dog weighs 70 to 115 pounds when fully grown. The Bernese Mountain Dog is 23 to 28 inches when fully grown.

    On the other hand, the Japanese Spitz weighs 11 to 20 pounds when fully grown. The Japanese Spitz is 10 to 16 inches when fully grown.

    Size of Bernese Mountain Dog versus Size of Japanese Spitz

    Lifespan of Bernese Mountain Dog versus Japanese Spitz

    The lifespan of the Bernese Mountain Dog is between 6 to 10 years. The average lifespan of the Bernese Mountain Dog is 8.0 years.

    The lifespan of the Japanese Spitz is between 10 to 16 years. The average lifespan of the Japanese Spitz is 13.0 years.

    The Japanese Spitz lives longer than the Bernese Mountain Dog.

    Bernese Mountain Dog versus Japanese Spitz

    Price of Bernese Mountain Dog versus Price of Japanese Spitz

    The average price of the Bernese Mountain Dog puppy is $2390. The price of the Bernese Mountain Dog typically ranges from $1500 – $2995. However, the price of a Bernese Mountain Dog can be as low as $300 and as high as $10000. We obtained this price information by reviewing the prices of 920 Bernese Mountain Dog puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The average price of the Japanese Spitz puppy is $1740. The price of the Japanese Spitz typically ranges from $1500 – $2150. However, the price of the Japanese Spitz can be as low as $800 and as high as $2400. We obtained this price information by collecting and reviewing the prices of 6 Japanese Spitz puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The Bernese Mountain Dog is more expensive than the Japanese Spitz.

    Bernese Mountain Dog Japanese Spitz
    Average Price $2390 $1740
    Price Range $1500 to $2995 $1500 to $2150

    The charts below show the price distribution for the Bernese Mountain Dog and Japanese Spitz. For different price points, the charts show how many Bernese Mountain Dog puppies or how many Japanese Spitz puppies are listed for sale at those price points.

    A breakdown of the prices of Bernese Mountain Dogs. The typical price range is shaded Green.

    A breakdown of the prices of Bernese Mountain Dogs. The typical price range is shaded Green.

    A breakdown of the prices of Japanese Spitzs

    A breakdown of the prices of Japanese Spitzs

    Note that a lot of factors determine how much you can expect to pay for the Bernese Mountain Dog puppy or the Japanese Spitz puppy. This includes if health screening tests have been performed on the puppy, if the puppy is from a famous pedigree, the US State where the puppy is bred, etc.

    Nevertheless, when looking to buy a puppy, look at buying a puppy only from well-established breeders that breed puppies primarily for the love of dogs, and secondarily for profit. Do not buy a puppy from a puppy mill. Puppy mills mass-produce puppies in bad living conditions for maximum profit.

    You may also consider adopting a dog instead of buying a dog.

    Bernese Mountain Dog versus Japanese Spitz

    Tolerates Being Alone: Bernese Mountain Dog versus Japanese Spitz

    Bernese Mountain Dogs do not like to be left alone.

    Japanese Spitzs do not like to be left alone.

    Do Bernese Mountain Dogs shed more than Japanese Spitzs?

    Bernese Mountain Dogs shed. They are not recommended for people with dog allergies.

    Japanese Spitzs shed moderately.

    Which is Easier to Groom, the Bernese Mountain Dog or the Japanese Spitz?

    Bernese Mountain Dogs are moderately easy to groom.

    Japanese Spitzs are very easy to groom.

    Which Dog Breed is more Dog-Friendly, the Bernese Mountain Dog or the Japanese Spitz?

    Bernese Mountain Dogs get along fairly well with other dogs.

    Japanese Spitzs get along very well with other dogs.

    Are Bernese Mountain Dogs good family dogs? What about Japanese Spitzs?

    Bernese Mountain Dogs are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    Japanese Spitzs are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    Is the Bernese Mountain Dog Easier to Train than the Japanese Spitz?

    Bernese Mountain Dogs are very easy to train.

    Japanese Spitzs are very easy to train.

    Which one drools more, the Bernese Mountain Dog or the Japanese Spitz

    Bernese Mountain Dogs have a very high tendency to drool.

    Japanese Spitzs do have a very low tendency to drool.

    How Kid-friendly are Bernese Mountain Dogs and Japanese Spitzs?

    Bernese Mountain Dogs get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.

    Japanese Spitzs get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.

    Does the Bernese Mountain Dog Have a Higher Prey Drive than the Japanese Spitz?

    Bernese Mountain Dogs have a high prey drive. They have the tendency to chase after smaller animals and pets. They do not get along well with other pets.

    Japanese Spitzs have a very low prey drive. This means they get won`t chase after smaller pets. They tend to get along well with other pets.

    Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Bark and Howl? What about Japanese Spitzs?

    Bernese Mountain Dogs are highly vocal. They have the tendency to bark and howl.

    Japanese Spitzs are highly vocal. They have the tendency to bark and howl.

    Can Bernese Mountain Dogs Tolerate Cold Weather? And can Japanese Spitzs Tolerate Cold Weather?

    Bernese Mountain Dogs can very well tolerate cold weather.

    Japanese Spitzs can very well tolerate cold weather.

    Wanderlust Potential: Bernese Mountain Dog vs. Japanese Spitz

    Bernese Mountain Dogs have a moderate tendency to wander. This means that they sometimes get distracted by other animals or objects.

    Japanese Spitzs do not have the potential to wander after things that capture their attention. They tend to stay around where you leave them.

    Can Bernese Mountain Dogs Tolerate Hot Weather? Can Japanese Spitzs Tolerate Hot Weather?

    Bernese Mountain Dogs cannot tolerate hot weather. They are not suited for hot environments.

    Japanese Spitzs can tolerate hot weather as long as the weather is not too hot.

    Is the Bernese Mountain Dog Better for Apartment Owners than the Japanese Spitz?

    Bernese Mountain Dogs do not adapt well to apartment living.

    Japanese Spitzs adapt very well to apartment living.

    Which is Better for New Dog Owners, the Bernese Mountain Dog or the Japanese Spitz?

    Bernese Mountain Dogs are not the best dogs for new dog owners.

    Japanese Spitzs are very good for new dog owners.

    Bernese Mountain Dog Versus Other Dog Breeds

    You may also be interested in how the Bernese Mountain Dog compares to other breeds aside from the Japanese Spitz. So, see below the links to the comparison of the Bernese Mountain Dog to other breeds:

    Bernese Mountain Dog versus Saint Bernard     Bernese Mountain Dog versus Vizsla     Bernese Mountain Dog versus Leonberger     Bernese Mountain Dog versus Rhodesian Ridgeback     Bernese Mountain Dog versus Rottweiler     Bernese Mountain Dog versus Newfoundland     Bernese Mountain Dog versus Labrador Retriever     Bernese Mountain Dog versus Alaskan Malamute     Bernese Mountain Dog versus Dalmatian     Bernese Mountain Dog versus Irish Wolfhound     Bernese Mountain Dog versus Great Pyrenees     Bernese Mountain Dog versus Cane Corso     Bernese Mountain Dog versus Bernedoodle     Bernese Mountain Dog versus Greater Swiss Mountain Dog     Bernese Mountain Dog versus Tibetan Mastiff     Bernese Mountain Dog versus Bullmastiff     Bernese Mountain Dog versus Golden Retriever     Bernese Mountain Dog versus Mastiff     

    Conclusion: Bernese Mountain Dog versus Japanese Spitz. Which One is a Better Pet?

    In summary, there is nothing like a better dog breed or a worse dog breed. The important question to ask is which dog breed better matches your interests and lifestyle. We hope our discussion above will help you in deciding which dog breed between the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Japanese Spitz better suits you and your family.