The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, affectionate, and intelligent breed originally from Switzerland. With its beautiful tricolor coat and gentle personality, this dog has become increasingly popular in Brazil. However, owning a Bernese Mountain Dog in Brazil comes with significant financial responsibility.
If you’re considering bringing one into your home, it’s essential to understand the full cost of ownership, including the purchase price, maintenance, veterinary care, and other expenses. This guide will provide a detailed breakdown of how much a Bernese Mountain Dog costs in Brazil.
1. Purchase Price of a Bernese Mountain Dog in Brazil
The initial cost of a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy varies depending on several factors, such as the breeder’s reputation, the dog’s bloodline, location, and whether it comes with pedigree certification.
Average Price Range in Brazil
â From a reputable breeder: R$ 6,000 – R$ 15,000
â From a champion bloodline breeder: R$ 12,000 – R$ 20,000
â From a pet store or backyard breeder: R$ 3,500 – R$ 6,000
Buying from a trusted breeder ensures that the puppy is healthy, well-socialized, and comes with genetic testing to prevent hereditary diseases. Avoid purchasing from backyard breeders or pet stores, as they often lack proper health screening and responsible breeding practices.
2. Factors That Influence the Price
Several factors can impact the price of a Bernese Mountain Dog in Brazil:
1. Breeder Reputation
Reputable breeders invest in quality nutrition, veterinary care, and proper socialization for their puppies, which increases the price.
2. Bloodline and Pedigree
Puppies from champion bloodlines (dogs with awards or superior genetics) tend to cost more due to their health and temperament advantages.
3. Location
The price can vary depending on your city or region. Major metropolitan areas like Sà£o Paulo and Rio de Janeiro tend to have higher prices than smaller cities.
4. Registration and Certifications
A registered Bernese Mountain Dog with a CBKC (Confederaà§à£o Brasileira de Cinofilia) pedigree will cost more than an unregistered one.
5. Health Screening and Vaccinations
Puppies that come with vaccinations, deworming, and microchipping may be more expensive but are a better long-term investment.
3. Initial Costs of Owning a Bernese Mountain Dog
Besides the purchase price, there are one-time setup costs to consider when bringing your puppy home:
â Large Dog Crate – R$ 400 – R$ 1,000
â Comfortable Bed – R$ 200 – R$ 500
â Food and Water Bowls – R$ 100 – R$ 300
â Leash and Collar – R$ 100 – R$ 250
â Chew Toys and Training Items – R$ 150 – R$ 400
â Grooming Tools – R$ 200 – R$ 600
The total initial setup cost can range from R$ 1,500 to R$ 3,500, depending on the quality of the products.
4. Monthly and Annual Expenses
Owning a Bernese Mountain Dog in Brazil requires ongoing expenses for food, healthcare, grooming, and other necessities.
1. Dog Food and Nutrition
â High-quality dog food: R$ 300 – R$ 600 per month
â Supplements and treats: R$ 50 – R$ 150 per month
Bernese Mountain Dogs need nutritious, protein-rich food to maintain their health and energy levels. The annual cost of feeding a Bernese can range from R$ 3,600 to R$ 9,000.
2. Veterinary Care and Health Costs
Regular veterinary checkups are essential to ensure your dog’s health. Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to hip dysplasia, cancer, and gastric torsion, which can lead to high medical expenses.
â Routine vet visits: R$ 300 – R$ 700 per consultation
â Vaccinations: R$ 250 – R$ 600 annually
â Deworming and flea prevention: R$ 100 – R$ 300 per month
â Emergency medical care: R$ 2,000 – R$ 10,000 per incident
To reduce unexpected expenses, pet insurance (R$ 100 – R$ 300 per month) is recommended.
3. Grooming Costs
Bernese Mountain Dogs have a thick, double-layered coat that requires regular grooming to avoid tangles and excessive shedding.
â At-home grooming: R$ 50 – R$ 150 per month (brushes, shampoo, nail clippers).
â Professional grooming: R$ 150 – R$ 400 per session (every 6-8 weeks).
Annual grooming costs can range from R$ 1,200 to R$ 4,800, depending on how often you use professional services.
4. Training and Socialization
Bernese Mountain Dogs are intelligent but require proper training due to their large size and strength.
â Obedience training: R$ 500 – R$ 1,500 for basic classes
â Private training: R$ 100 – R$ 300 per session
â Advanced training (therapy or protection work): R$ 2,000 – R$ 5,000
Training ensures that your Bernese Mountain Dog is well-behaved and socialized, preventing behavioral issues.
5. Pet Insurance and Emergency Fund
Veterinary costs can be expensive, making pet insurance a good investment.
â Pet insurance: R$ 100 – R$ 300 per month
â Emergency fund (recommended): R$ 3,000 – R$ 10,000 set aside for unexpected medical needs.
Having an emergency fund helps avoid financial stress if your dog needs urgent medical care.
5. Lifetime Cost of Owning a Bernese Mountain Dog in Brazil
The average lifespan of a Bernese Mountain Dog is 7 to 10 years. Over their lifetime, the total cost of ownership can be:
â Initial purchase: R$ 6,000 – R$ 15,000
â Initial setup costs: R$ 1,500 – R$ 3,500
â Annual expenses: R$ 10,000 – R$ 20,000
â Lifetime cost: R$ 70,000 – R$ 200,000
While owning a Bernese Mountain Dog is a significant financial commitment, their loyalty, affection, and companionship make it a worthwhile investment for the right owner.
6. Is a Bernese Mountain Dog Right for You?
Before getting a Bernese Mountain Dog, ask yourself:
â Can I afford the long-term costs?
â Do I have enough space for a large dog?
â Can I commit to regular exercise, training, and grooming?
If you are financially and emotionally prepared, a Bernese Mountain Dog can be a wonderful and loving companion.
The cost of a Bernese Mountain Dog in Brazil varies based on factors like breeder reputation, bloodline, and location. Beyond the initial purchase price, food, vet care, grooming, and training contribute to the overall expense.
For those ready to make the commitment, a Bernese Mountain Dog brings love, joy, and companionshipâmaking the investment truly worthwhile.