How to Determine a Bernese Mountain Dog's Age and When Do They Reach Adulthood?

Determining a Bernese Mountain Dog's age involves observing several key characteristics, including their teeth, physical build, and coat. Generally, puppies have 28 teeth, while adults possess 42. Young dogs are typically lively and energetic, whereas older ones tend to be slower and less agile. Also, graying hair around the muzzle is a common sign of aging in dogs.

1. Examining the Teeth

One of the most straightforward methods to gauge a Bernese Mountain Dog's age is by counting their teeth. Puppies start developing teeth around 19 days old. By two months, they'll have a full set of 28 milk teeth. Between 9-10 months, their permanent set of 42 teeth will have replaced the milk teeth. This is a very reliable indicator of whether a Bernese Mountain Dog is a puppy or a young adult.

2. Observing the Physical Build

Young Bernese Mountain Dog puppies are agile and move with ease. Around 2-5 years old, they might become a bit more clumsy, although their movements are generally still steady and reliable. Once a dog starts to move sluggishly, with a hunched back or a slow gait, it’s a sign they’re likely over 10 years old. Pay attention to how their body moves. A gradual change from agile to clumsy can help give insight into the dog's age.

3. Assessing the Coat

Around 4-5 years old, you might notice a few white hairs appearing, and by 5-6 years, these white hairs will become more noticeable. If about 70% of the hair on a dog’s head has turned white, it’s a strong indication that they are likely over 10 years old. If their entire head has turned white, it's a sign they are probably over 13 years old. The gradual change in coat color is a key indicator of their age.

When Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Reach Adulthood?

Bernese Mountain Dogs are considered to reach full adulthood around 12 months old. Generally, they will experience their first heat cycle (estrus) at around 8 months of age. This marks their sexual maturity. However, their bodies continue to develop fully until they reach approximately 12 months old, which is when they are considered to be physically and fully mature. Therefore, while they might be capable of reproducing earlier, their full development and maturation completes around the 12-month mark.

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