How Much Does a Bernese Mountain Dog Cost in Australia?
Also known as: Berner, Bernese
Purchase Price
$4,000 – $8,000
Annual Food Cost
~$1,680
Lifespan
6–9 years
Size
giant (35–52kg)
Calculate Your Bernese Mountain Dog Costs
Purchase Price
Purchasing a Bernese Mountain Dog from a registered breeder in Australia typically costs between $4,000 and $8,000. Adopting from a shelter or rescue organisation is significantly cheaper, usually between $300 and $500, and often includes desexing, microchipping, and initial vaccinations.
Ongoing Costs
Bernese Mountain Dogs are among the most expensive breeds to own in Australia due to high purchase prices ($4,000-$8,000), giant-breed food costs, and serious health risks. Up to 25% develop histiocytic sarcoma, a cancer with treatment costs of $5,000-$20,000. Their tragically short lifespan of 6-9 years means high annual costs are concentrated into fewer years. Professional grooming every 6 weeks for their thick double coat adds $90-$160 per session.
Common Health Issues
Typical treatment: $5,000 – $20,000
Typical treatment: $3,500 – $9,000
Typical treatment: $2,000 – $6,500
Typical treatment: $3,500 – $8,000
Insurance
Pet insurance for a Bernese Mountain Dog in Australia typically costs between $60 and $120 per month. Given this breed's health predispositions, insurance is particularly recommended.
Tips to Save Money
- ✓Consider adopting from a shelter — you'll save on purchase price and often get vaccinations and desexing included.
- ✓Buy food in bulk or subscribe to regular deliveries for discounts at stores like Pet Circle.
- ✓Learn basic grooming between professional sessions to extend the time between visits.
- ✓Compare pet insurance policies annually — premiums can vary significantly between providers.