Bernese Mountain Dogs are a beautiful breed of dog that is native to the Swiss Alps. They are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and strength. If you’re considering purchasing a Bernese Mountain Dog in India, it’s important to understand the costs involved. In this article, we will provide an overview of the factors that can influence the price of a Bernese Mountain Dog in India and the average cost of purchasing a Bernese Mountain Dog from a reputable breeder.
Bred to be versatile farm dogs, they were used for tasks such as pulling carts, herding livestock, and guarding property. Today, they are more likely to be found in homes as loyal and loving family pets.
Often referred to as “Berner” and recognized by its tricolor coat and white “Swiss-Cross” across its chest is not so popular in India. Warm Temperatures and harsh climate are the main reasons why “Berner” are less prevalent in India. If you’re willing to raise this breed in India, prepare for the care and daily attention they may need from you.
Here are some factors that will help you make the right decision!
What’s the Cost of a Bernese Mountain Dog in India?
Due to its low popularity, the Bernese Mountain Dog demand is low. It reflects in its price. The average price of a Bernese Mountain Dog lies between INR 45,000 and 90,000.
In addition to the low demand, the price also depends upon various other factors that are briefly mentioned in the coming sections of this article.
Factors that Affects the Buying Cost of Bernese Mountain Dog in India
Bernese Mountain Dog: Purchasing a Pup vs. an Adult Dog
Buying a puppy instead of a mature dog is popular among owners. Puppies are easy to train and tame in their initial years, and you can quickly build an affectionate bond with them. Whereas adult dogs are already housebroken and raised according to the environment, they were in before. Due to this reason, the overall price of a Bernese Mountain Puppy costs more than an Adult Berner.
Buying an adult dog can be considered if you’re looking for something economical. But, remember that often these dogs are rescued from an environment they’re neglected and may behave aggressively in front of strangers first. Still, you can expect them to behave normally with proper training and a loving environment.
Adopting a Bernese Mountain vs. Purchasing
Adopting a dog from a shelter gives them a second chance at life, and at the same time, you save money. Because the cost of adoption is typically cheaper than the price of purchasing a Bernese Mountain from a reputable breeder.
Additionally, Adopted shelter dogs often come already spayed or neutered. This can save you even more money down the road.
If you’re considering adopting a dog, be prepared for some behavioral issues. Many adopted dogs come from shelters or rescue organizations with histories of neglect and, as a result, may have difficulty adjusting to their new home and surroundings.
These dogs may exhibit destructive behaviors, become fearful and aggressive when not given enough attention, or feel insecure. If your home is large enough, consider adopting a dog in stages so the animal can gradually get used to its new environment.
Many shelters offer free or low-cost vaccinations, microchipping, and free or low-cost obedience training classes.
Breeder Factor
Berners are prone to common health problems like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat, and cancer. So, it becomes necessary to know about these conditions before you bring a Berner home.
Due to many illegal practices in India, breeders lean towards making money and pay less attention to the puppy’s overall health. So, it is essential to find a genuine licensed breeder before making a purchase. One way to ascertain that is to ask for certificates and the medical history of both mother and puppy.
Here are some places where you can find a Mountain Bernese Dog:
Buying Bernese Mountain Dogs from Puppy Mills
(Never Buy From Here)
Most people think of puppy mills as quaint places where families go to pick out the newest member of their tribe. However, the reality is that these facilities are anything but idyllic.
Here are three reasons why you should avoid buying dogs from puppy mills:
1. The breeding conditions at puppy mills are often terrible. Animals are raised in cramped wire cages, with little to no access to veterinary care, exercise, or socialization. They’re usually fed substandard food.
2. Bernese Mountain dogs from commercial mills are more likely to have health and behavioral problems. Because they are bred solely for profit, there is little regard for genetic diversity or health testing, leading to various issues later on down the road.
3. You’re supporting a cruel industry. Puppy mill operators care only about making money, and the animals in their care suffer.
Although, you may find puppies in this place cheap. Puppy Mill owners play these gimmicks to lure customers by offering puppies at cheaper rates.
Buying a Bernese Mountain Dog from Pet Shops
Pet store dogs are often sourced from puppy mills – commercial breeding operations prioritizing profit over animal welfare. This can lead to a whole host of health and behavioral problems.
Although not all pet shops are the same, you must find the right one. It would be helpful to look at the mother, health records, trainer, and breeder’s sources. If the pet owner refuses to show any of these things, the dog has been raised in suspicion.
Buying a Bernese Mountain Dog from a Broker
A dog broker brings buyers and breeders together and helps facilitate a transaction. They can save you time and hassle.
Brokers have contacts with many different breeders and organizations and can help match you with the right dog based on your individual needs and preferences.
Additionally, brokers can also help you with paperwork and shipping. However, they would charge a commission of around 10-20% of the total price of the dog.
Doing the proper research before engaging with a broker is also advisable, as many are operating illegally and can easily manipulate you.
Buying a Bernese Mountain Dog from Reputable Breeders
A responsible and reputable breeder is always the best option. Here are a few reasons why:
You’ll know exactly what you’re getting.
A reputable breeder will have healthy, well-socialized puppies raised in a clean environment. The breeder can answer questions about the puppy’s parents and health history. They will also be open about their breeding practices and ethical standards.
You’ll have support
A good breeder will offer support even after you take your new dog home. They can answer any questions you have and help you through any challenges.
They want to place their puppies in homes where they will be loved and well cared for. This shows that they care about their dogs’ well-being even after giving it to you.
An excellent place to start with research is online forums that provide reviews. Next, you can ask the local vet as they will give you the best advice more often.
Questions That You Must Inquire from a Breeder
Here are some questions to ask a potential breeder
- What health tests have been done for the puppy and its parents?
- Do you have experience with the dog breed I am interested in?
- Can you provide references from other dog owners?
- Do the dogs live in your home or kennels?
- Have the puppies been socialized?
- What are the common health problems in the breed of dog I am interested in?
- Will I be able to speak with the veterinarian who cares for your dogs?
- What food do you feed the dogs?
- I want to meet the mother of the puppy
- What vaccinations have you given to the dog?
Gender
Male Dogs are typically more expensive than female dogs. The main reason for this price difference is that male dogs are typically larger than females. This makes them more popular with people who want a guard dog.
Size
Males generally stand from 25 to 28 inches at the shoulders and weigh 36 to 53 KG. Females stand from 23 to 26 inches tall and weigh 31 to 43 KG. As mentioned earlier, the larger size of dogs plays an essential role in deciding their price. Males bigger than female dogs will generally cost more.
Purebred Bernese Mountain Dog or Mix breed Bernese Mountain Dog?
A purebred dog is a dog that has been selectively bred over many generations to have specific characteristics. They usually have parents of the same breed. On the other hand, a mixed breed is a cross between two different breeds of a dog.
A mix-breed is usually less expensive to buy than a purebred, as they may come with genetic defects.
However, a purebred dog may be more expensive to purchase, as they are often seen as status symbols, and their bloodlines are considered more valuable. They generally contain fewer genetic defects.
To ensure you’re getting a purebred Bernese Mountain dog, always ask for KCI certification from the breeder.
Bloodline
The value of a Bernese Mountain Dog depends significantly on genetics. You can expect an expensive price tag if the dog is from a top bloodline. Although you will have to spend extra, but you can have peace of mind knowing that your dog was bred with optimal characteristics from its ancestors.
Burmese Mountain Dog Markings and Coat Colours
A Bernese mountain dog is a beautiful adult dog with brown, black, and white fur. The dogs with a dark coat with white markings and rust-tinged highlights are reasonably costlier than the regular ones.
Location
Price can vary significantly depending on the breeder’s location when looking for a new furry friend.
For example, buying a dog from a breeder in a rural area is typically cheaper than purchasing one from a breeder in an urban area. This is because breeders in rural areas often have lower overhead costs than in cities.
In addition, there is not much demand in rural areas compared with urban areas where the population is more and more people are into buying a pet.
It may also cost you more if you intend to buy a Bernese Mountain Dog from an area far away from your location. As in this case, you need to add miscellaneous costs like traveling and shipping.
Certificates
Dogs with a certificate from a local or national animal welfare organization like the KCI will cost more because the dogs certified under them have been through training and are bred to meet specific standards.
You can rest assured that these dogs would have fewer behavioral issues. In addition, they would be healthy and vaccinated.
Yearly Maintenance Cost of Being a Bernese Mountain Dog Parent
Buying a Bernese mountain dog is just the beginning — you’ll need to budget for food, toys, accessories, vet bills, and more.
Here’s a look at how you’re likely to spend on your Bernese Mountain Dog;
Food Factor For Bernese Mountain Dog
A Bernese Mountain would develop into a giant breed with lots of energy and exercise needs.
Their special dietary requirements differ from puppyhood to maturity and old age. Speak to your vet or a professional nutritionist to learn what you should supply them.
To understand their diet and its related costs, look at the below components.
Homemade food vs. Store-bought Food
Purchased food is formulated to contain all the essential proteins and nutrients a dog needs for good health. It is also convenient and easy to use. Whereas home food can be tailored to your dog’s individual needs and may be more natural and nutritious.
The best way to decide which food is best for your dog is to talk to your veterinarian. They can help you choose a diet that will meet your dog’s specific needs and ensure they stay healthy and happy.
On average, your monthly food expenses for your Bernese Mountain dog will go anywhere between INR 6500-9500. If you’re on a budget and want to make it more economical, you can try making a mixture of homemade and purchased food. Doing this can reduce the average monthly cost to between INR 4000 and 6000.
What Frequency and Portion Size of Food Should be Given to Bernese Mountain Dogs?
A puppy needs to be fed about three small meals every day. It is important to continue feeding them the same diet their breeder gave them and make the transition gradual and carefully. As soon as they turn 6 months of age, start giving them 2 meals a day.
An adult Bernese would need to be fed at least once or twice a day and approximately 750-gram helping of raw meat and approximately 200-gram helping of vegetables or grains. It is advised to keep the meat raw. Like their ancestors, modern-day Berners don’t work in the field and do a lot of physical activities. Due to this reason, feeding them once a day should be sufficient.
If they’re hyperactive, you can alter the number of meals a day. Look at the table below to get the idea of feeding your Bernese Mountain Dog.
| Age | Times a day | Amount of food |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 months | Four times a day | 1/4 – 1/3 cup |
| 2-8 months | Two times a day | 1/4 – 1/3 cup food |
| 8-12 months | Two times a day | 1/2 cup |
| 12-18 months | Three times a day | 1/2– 1 cup |
| 18 months and older | Three times a day | 1 cup |
This chart is just to give you a basic idea. Every pet has different nutritional needs and must be fed differently, so consult with a veterinarian about a suitable pet food schedule for your dog.
Vet Factor
Keeping your pet dog healthy takes regular and recurring wellness checks by your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will assess their heart, weight, lungs, and eyesight and conduct a general checkup. Catching any problems early on is essential if you want to deal with the situation as quickly as possible.
Paying the veterinarian a timely visit when your furry friend is six months of age is crucial. You can reduce the frequency once every 3 or 4 weeks once your dog becomes old.
To have a brief Idea about all the costs related to the health concern of your pup, have a look at the sections mentioned below.
Vaccination Cost
To ensure your dog is immune to deadly viruses, it is essential to provide their vaccines promptly.
Your puppy should start receiving vaccinations at six-eight weeks of age. A booster dose of the vaccine is recommended every 3-4 weeks until your Berner turns 16 weeks old.
Next, your Bernese Mountain puppy will require booster shots yearly to stay updated on their vaccinations.
Here’s the vaccination schedule that you can follow:
6 Weeks | DP Vaccine: it provides immunization against canine distemper and Parvovirus infection. Rabies Vaccine: It aids in the protection against rabies infection that can infect humans. Typically, government hospitals provide it free of cost. A booster shot will need to be given in 21days after the initial shot. | INR 750-1500 |
8 Weeks | At this age, a vaccination collection will be provided to your Berner. They may be called Five-in-one or Seven-in-One, or Nine-in-One with a booster at 21 days. These vaccines will immunize your dog from life-taking diseases such as Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Distemper, and Leptospira. | INR 1000-2000 |
| Annual | DHPP booster vaccines should be given every year to give your dogs continued protection. | INR 750-2500 |
However, this schedule is just for you to have a basic idea; your puppy may demand different needs. So, it is advisable to consult your vet before giving your dog any vaccines.
Neutering or Spaying Surgery Cost
Neutering and spaying is the removal of a puppy’s reproductive organs by surgery. The procedure is necessary to prevent dog overpopulation and help keep pet populations healthy.
It’s known to have health benefits for an individual dog, such as reducing the risk of certain cancers. In addition, it also brings behavioral changes, especially in male dogs. They more often urinate to set territories. Neutering helps them to stop this behavior.
The cost of spaying and neutering your dog varies depending on the location and veterinarian, but on average, it is around INR 4000-12000.
Deworming Cost
Your puppy can easily pick up worms from the environment. Whether they’re playing in the yard or going for a walk, there’s always a risk for them to come into contact with worm-infected water or land soil.
Deworming helps to protect your puppy from many health-related problems, including malnutrition and organ damage. It is also important to note that some types of worms can be transmitted to humans, so it is essential to keep your puppy healthy for the sake of your family as well.
Your veterinarian might provide medication to treat deworming, such as tablets or syrups. These will typically cost around INR 100-200.
Preventive Medication Cost
Antiseptic Spray, Cotton, and Bandages: This is like a first aid kit for your dogs. You can use it to treat minor injuries at home itself. Depending upon how often you buy, it can generally cost anywhere between INR 300-900.
Powder for Tick and Fleas: Ticks and fleas can cause a lot of discomfort for dogs and even transmit diseases like Lyme and Bubonic plague. Tick and flea powders help keep these pests under control, preventing them from causing problems for your dog.
You can expect it to cost around INR 200-500.
Drops for Ears: To save your dog from ear inflammation or infection, you can buy ear drops that would generally cost between INR 250-350.
Housing and Confinement Cost
Confining a dog when you’re not home prevents them from getting into mischief and causing damage to your home or yard.
Confining allows you to teach your dog essential rules and manners, such as not jumping on guests or chewing on furniture.
Whether during potty training, when they’re first learning to be away from their mothers, or when they’re overly tired and need to rest, confining dogs gives them a sense of security.
There are several ways to confine your dogs, such as using a leash, tie-out, fence, or crate. For puppies, crates are most suitable as you can carry them easily anywhere. A good quality crate would cost around INR 1000-1500. You can shift to dog beds as your puppy grows old. It will cost you around INR 1500-2500.
Accessory Cost
Harnesses For Training
The harness gives you more control over your dog when walking or running. They help keep your dog focused and on task while preventing them from getting distracted or running off.
It can also help prevent injuries. Dogs who pull on the leash can put a lot of strain on their necks and backs, leading to injuries over time. A harness takes that pressure off their necks and distributes it evenly across their body.
You can use training harnesses for various purposes, such as obedience training, potty training, or even simple walks around the block. Depending upon the quality, you can expect the training harnesses to cost around INR 1000-2000.
Toy Cost
As any pet parent knows, dogs love to play. Toys provide mental stimulation that can help prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
For puppies, teething toys help soothe their gums as they lose their baby teeth. Older dogs enjoy plush toys or balls to carry around and fetch. And for dogs who like to chew, durable rubber toys are explicitly designed for chewers.
A set of good quality toys would cost you around INR 500-2000.
Cost of Grooming Your Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain dogs naturally shed year-round, but the heaviest shedding happens during seasonal changes. They only need brushing once a week to keep their fur clean and to reduce the amount of fur on the ground and furniture. Berners only require bathing a couple of times a year, depending on how active they are.
If you possess the skill and patience, you can effortlessly do the grooming at home. A grooming kit would typically cost you around INR 2,000-3,000. It includes nail clippers, shampoos, conditioners, towels, etc.
If you don’t have time or experience, it’s wise to consult professional services. Depending on location and availability, it can cost anywhere around INR 500-2000 per session.
Walker Cost
Dogs need exercise and fresh air, and walking is a great way to provide this. However, some dog owners can’t walk with their dogs regularly due to work commitments. They can hire walker services.
Depending on the location, a walker can charge anywhere between INR 400-500 per session or 3000-4000 monthly.
Training and Socialisation Cost
Dog training and socialization services help dogs learn how to behave around people and other animals. These services can be helpful for fearful or aggressive dogs and those who need to learn basic manners.
Training and socialization can help dogs become more confident and better-adjusted members of society and make them more enjoyable companions for their owners.
Some standard features of these services include obedience training, behavior modification, and exposure to different environments and situations. These trainers would typically charge around INR 6000-8000 a month.
Cost of Treats
A dog is a human best friend, and what better way to show your furry friend some love than with treats? Dogs love treats, and they’re not just for show. Treats can be used as a training tool, a way to show some affection, or just as a little something special for your pooch.
Invest in good quality treats that provide all essential nutrients. It can cost around INR 200-300.
Cost of Insurance
Dog insurance is a policy that helps cover veterinary costs in the event your dog becomes sick or injured. Various dog insurance plans are available, and coverage can range from basic to comprehensive.
Dog insurance can help ease the financial burden of unexpected vet bills and peace of mind knowing you’re prepared for your dog’s health care needs. Typically in India, you can expect it to cost around INR 5000-15000 yearly.
Cost of Travel
Check your airline’s policies to see which animals are authorized to be flown with you. For instance, few airline companies will allow little dogs on the airplane, while dogs bigger in size may be required to be traveled in the cargo compartment.
Also, ensure that you have all the documents related to your dog’s healthcare and vaccination because, without that airline, you won’t let your dog travel with you.
Generally, domestically, the airline charges INR 20,000. It can reach up to INR 2-3 lakhs if you travel internationally.
Daycare
You’re not alone if you’re working long hours and can’t bear the thought of leaving your furry friend home alone all day. Luckily, plenty of doggy daycare options are available to fit your puppy’s needs and your budget.
Most doggy daycares offer various services, including indoor and outdoor play areas, group or individual playtime, training sessions, walks, grooming, and more. Prices vary depending on the type and frequency of service but typically start around INR 200-1000 per day.
Registration Cost
The Kennel Club of India (KCI) is the national governing body for dog welfare and its registration and regulation in India. They charge for the registration of dogs to finance its operations and keep the registry. Therefore, you can expect to pay between INR 400 and INR 1000.
Miscellaneous
After all the main costs related to your Berner, you may require some basic things, such as water bowls, food storage containers, and a pee cleaner, for raising your dog, which will cost anywhere from INR 2,500 to Rs 4,000.
Hidden and Related Costs of Bernese Mountain Dog
Your dog should be a priority, just like other family members. Your dog needs you for everything, including rest, food, and play.
Dogs need time with their owners to develop trust and relationships. If you don’t provide them with the mental and emotional stimulation they need, they may develop behavioral problems such as aggression or wandering.
So spending time with them on a regular basis can make a big difference in their lives.
Essential Things to Consider Before Buying Bernese Mountain Dog
- Bernese mountain dogs are Slow Maturing Dogs. Berner typically does not achieve their full size and weight until they are a year or two old, which is why they continue to grow throughout their adult years.
- Berners don’t react well to harsh treatment; however, they are very compliant and eager to please their master.
- When Bernese mountain dogs mature, they are large dogs who like to have something to spend their time with; hence, it’s wise and fun to begin obedience training early.
- These dogs are intelligent and relatively simple to train. They quickly adapt to new orders at a top-tier rate.
- They are not suitable for warm climates, so keep them in a cool environment.
Benefits of Bringing Bernese Mountain Dog to Your Home
- Kids friendly
- Easy to train
- Intelligent, affectionate, and alert dog.
- Possess excellent watchdog capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Bernese Mountain Dogs Hypoallergenic?
They are not hypoallergenic, but they shed heavily. So, it’s essential to brush them weekly.
How long do Bernese Mountain Dogs live?
They have a lifespan of about 7-10 years.
What health concerns are Bernese Mountain prone to?
They are prone to Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), Portosystemic Shunt (PSS), Panosteitis, and Elbow Dysplasia.
Do Bernese mountain dogs get along with family?
Proper training and socialization are necessary for Bernese mountain dogs to make them great family pets. The breed is generally good with children, as well as other dogs.
Is Bernese Mountain Dog aggressive?
These are soft dogs and, in many cases, won’t display aggression.
Summing it Up
In conclusion, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a perfect choice if you are looking for a loyal and friendly dog who will be a great addition to your family. They are gentle giants who love to cuddle and play, and they will bring joy and happiness into your home. So, if you are ready to add a furry friend to your family, bring them home!