How Much Does a Bernese Mountain Dog Cost?
If you’re wondering how much a Bernese mountain dog costs, you’re not alone.
This popular animal is ranked 22nd out of 195 dog breeds by the American Kennel Club, proving that its intelligence, loyalty, and playfulness are valued among many.
Bernese Mountain Dogs, also called Berners, are large, loving, and very calm—perfect for homes with children and other pets.
If you’re set on welcoming a big furry friend to its new forever home, use this guide to Bernese Mountain Dog costs to plan your budget and make your dream a reality.
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Don't leave your furry friend's safety to chance—invest in the Fi Dog Collar today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your beloved Bernese is always secure.
How Much Does a Bernese Mountain Dog Cost?
According to the Bernese Mountain Dog Club, the average cost of a Bernese Mountain dog is between $1,200 and $3,000. Because these dogs are in high demand, they tend to be more costly.
Additionally, you’ll need to factor in the cost of veterinary expenses, food, and other amenities for your pet. Owning a pet is a privilege—and often requires an investment to maintain your animal’s health and happiness.
The American Pet Products Association maintains that a Bernese Mountain Dog's average cost of upkeep is roughly $1,480 annually. In addition to essential maintenance, you’ll have to factor in the price of pet insurance and other protective mechanisms like a GPS collar.
Some Bernese Mountain Dogs experience unpredictable genetic or other health issues, which will cost you more in the long run.
Lastly, should you adopt a Bernese Mountain Dog adult, you will likely face adoption fees. Though these are generally lower than standard prices, they vary considerably between states and shelters.
How Much is a Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy?
Bernese mountain dog puppies are typically more expensive than adults since they are younger and in higher demand.
The cost of a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy is estimated between $2,000 to $10,000. Most breeders spend between $1,500 and $5,000 per litter, so you can expect the pricing of puppies to reflect the breeder’s investment and projected profit.
It's important to note that some Bernese puppies have genetic issues, and you’ll have to account for the cost of surgeries or treatments if that is the case.
You will likely face adoption fees if you choose to adopt a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy. While adoption fees tend to be lower than average, they vary widely depending on the shelter. Most shelters charge at least $10 to $20 for administrative costs, often increasing prices for dogs in high demand.
Additionally, puppies typically have more needs than adult dogs. For example, a puppy will need training, though you can try to train them yourself. You’ll also need to invest in puppy pads, if necessary, puppy food, frequent vet visits, and more.
The general rule of thumb is that the younger your puppy is, the more expensive it will likely get.
Factors That Impact the Cost of a Bernese Mountain Dog
Several factors can impact the cost of a Bernese Mountain Dog. A firm grasp of these factors can help you plan accordingly and choose the best dog for your budget.
First, your dog’s age will impact the price significantly. Because the demand for puppies is higher, you are likely to pay more for a younger dog. Additionally, puppies require more up-front and long-term investments since they will grow out of their beds and toys and require training to function correctly.
Second, you will have to consider the color of your Bernese Mountain Dog. Most dogs have tri-colored coats with a black base. Those with distinct white markings and rust-colored fur are typically more expensive than others. Your dog’s estimated size is also likely to impact its cost since bigger dogs are often more costly.
Your dog’s pedigree will also affect its price. If your dog comes from an impressive lineage of purebreds, it will likely be more expensive. Similarly, if there are changes in genetic disease, you probably will not have to pay as much as you otherwise would.
Consider your breeder’s reputation and location as well. Highly rated breeders will cost more than purchasing a puppy from a puppy mill. Investing in the right breeder, however, is well worth the effort.
Lastly, you’ll have to consider the long-term costs of your Bernese Mountain Dog.
You’ll need to factor in the cost of upkeep, which ranges between $1,400 to $2,000 a year, depending on your dog’s needs. If you travel a lot, your prices will be higher.
You may also wish to consider your dog’s health and dietary needs. Bernese Mountain Dogs can have several genetic defects, and it’s essential to keep this in mind before you invest in one. The costs of genetic diseases vary, but consider some of the following.
- Hip Dysplasia costs between $1,000 and $4,000 for surgery.
- Heart Defects can cost upwards of $3,500 for surgery
- Sub-Aortic Stenosis costs $80I 0 for diagnosis alone
Some dogs come with the proper screening and a health guarantee, which will likely cost you more. Genetic testing is worth the investment so you can best support your dog.
Bernese Mountain Dogs Can Be Expensive; Protect Your Pup With Fi’s GPS Tracking Dog Collar.
Bernese Mountain Dogs can be expensive, but the investment is well worth it.
However, there are plenty of ways to protect your investment—namely, by purchasing a top-quality GPS tracking collar from Fi.
An estimated two million dogs are stolen yearly, and expensive dogs are the most at risk.
For this reason, a GPS collar can keep you and your dog safe.
This GPS-tracking collar is light and comfortable for dogs of all sizes. It leverages 40% more GPS satellites than the average collar, instantly tracking escapes. It follows in remote areas with 200% LTE signal—and handles the worst chewers with 400lbs+ of resistance.
The collar is fully waterproof, and the battery lasts up to three months. You can choose your collar color and enjoy unlimited connectivity from there.
Best of all, FI protects your investment with an extended warranty replacement and unlimited software updates, so you can rest assured that your money is in the right place.
Bernese Mountain Dog Breed Guide
If you’re set on getting a Bernese Mountain Dog, you may want to consider the many admirable qualities of these big, strong pups. Although Bernese Mountain Dogs come in wide varieties, the rates below set them apart from other animals.
Personality
Bernese Mountain Dogs are affectionate, loyal, and faithful. They’ll protect you, your home, and your kids! On that note, they get along well with kids and other animals, though the behavior may vary depending on the dog.
They are also certified service animals and K9 dogs, so they are brilliant and easily trainable. These dogs require mental stimulation like puzzle toys and love to learn tricks and play with you, so keep them engaged as much as possible.
Bernese Mountain Dogs enjoy performing in competitions, herding, scent work, and obedience tricks. This includes participating in dog sports as well!
They also make excellent therapy pets and are eligible for certification as Emotional Support Animals.
Size/Weight
Bernese Mountain Dogs vary considerably in height and weight.
However, male Bernese dogs are likely to be between 25 to 27.5 inches tall and between 80 and 115 pounds.
Female Bernese Mountain Dogs are likely between 23 to 26 inches in height and 70-95 pounds.
These are big dogs, and they need lots of room to run and play. They also shed a great deal and are more likely to drool than other dogs. Their coat is medium-length, so they require frequent brushing.
Average Lifespan
The average lifespan of a Bernese Mountain Dog is between seven and ten years. These dogs don’t live as long as others, but they are incredible companions for the time you do have them!
You can boost your dog’s lifespan by protecting them with high-quality foods, an excellent veterinarian, and protective mechanisms like microchips and GPS collars.
Lifestyle/Activity Level
Bernese Mountain Dogs are highly personable and playful. They are often relatively high-energy, though they are gentle and calm too. They demand about as much exercise as most large dogs.
Most Bernese Mountain Dogs run, jump, and play throughout the day—but they’ll cuddle with you on the couch too! Remember that these dogs need room to play or be taken on frequent walks.
Approximate Lifetime Care Costs
The average care cost for a Bernese Mountain Dog is between $1,400 and $2,000.
These costs typically include veterinary bills, food, toys, and other amenities.
However, if your dog has genetic problems, you must pay additional costs to care for them.
Most procedures cost $1,000, and you can typically expect $5,000 for effective procedures like heart surgeries.
How Can I Lower the Cost of a Bernese Mountain Dog?
There are several ways to lower the cost of a Bernese Mountain Dog.
First, you can invest in an older dog rather than a puppy. Since puppies are in higher demand, an older dog will likely cost less. Remember that older dogs may have additional health needs, which will cost you more.
You can also consider adopting a dog rather than buying one from a breeder. Adoption fees will rarely surpass the cost of buying from a breeder, so it’s almost always a win. Consider getting on a registry or waitlist at a local shelter to get notified when they receive a Bernese in their care.
Should you choose a dog with genetic problems, you might save more in the short term but pay more in the long run.
Lastly, using several strategies, you can find creative ways to save on your dog’s lifetime costs.
- Keep shots and pills up to date.
- Get pet insurance
- Use a microchip and a GPS collar
- Use generic products
- Shop at discount stores
- Train your dog yourself if possible
- Request written estimates for vet visits
- Use preventative care
- Look into an Emergency Fund for emergency vet visits
- Compare different vets, foods, and other animal care products.
- DIY as much as you can!
Conclusion: The Cost of Owning a Bernese Mountain Dog
The cost of owning a Bernese Mountain Dog varies considerably.
Factors such as your dog’s age, size, coloring, and pedigree can affect its original price—and where you obtain your dog matters too.
However, the average cost for a Bernese Mountain Dog adult is between $1,500 and $3,000, and the average price of a puppy is between $2,000 and $11,000.
To care for your pet, you’ll need to account for $1000 to $2,000 a year for upkeep and routine vet visits.
To best protect your investment, consider obtaining a high-quality GPS Smart Collar from Fi. This collar will allow you to track your pet incredibly accurately, so you’ll know when they leave the house.
Additionally, the collar has up to three months of battery life and is protected by an extended warranty, so you can rest assured that you’re getting the best value for your money.
Taking measures to protect your dog is a great way to minimize any unforeseen costs due to escape—and it will save you the heartache of wondering where your furry friend has gone.
While the cost of Bernese Mountain Dog can be relatively high, it’s well worth it. Once you have your new best friend, you’ll know exactly why.
Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi.com.
TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today!