A purebred Bernese Mountain Dog exhibits distinct characteristics, including slight wrinkles on their head, medium-sized ears, a thick and dense coat, a robust bone structure, and well-developed muscles.
1. Head: Bernese Mountain Dogs have subtle wrinkles on their head, with a clearly defined outline, a flat and broad skull. Their eyes are deep brown, oval-shaped, and the eyelids fit snugly against the eyeballs. The ears are of medium size, with slightly rounded tips. When relaxed, the ears hang down the side of the head; when alert, they turn forward with the base of the ear raised, and the highest point of the ear is level with the top of the head. Their nose is black, and the lips are clean and tight, with the upper lip slightly drooping. The teeth meet in a scissor or level bite.
2. Size: Male Bernese Mountain Dogs typically stand between 61 and 71 centimeters tall and weigh between 38 and 50 kilograms. Females range from 58 to 69 centimeters in height and 36 to 48 kilograms in weight. These measurements are indicative of their robust and sturdy build.
3. Coat: Bernese Mountain Dogs boast a thick and dense coat of moderate length that appears bright and well-kept. The coat is tricolored, primarily deep black with rust and white markings, creating their distinctive appearance. A quality coat is dense with moderate hair length.
4. Body: These dogs have a moderately long neck, a strong bone structure, and well-developed muscles. Their chest is deep and wide, with well-sprung ribs, and the chest depth reaches the elbows. They have a broad and firm back with a wide and muscular loin. The body of a Bernese Mountain Dog reflects its working heritage – sturdy, resilient, and capable.
How Much Does a Purebred Bernese Mountain Dog Cost?
On average, a pet-quality Bernese Mountain Dog puppy costs between $6000 and $10,000. Prices may vary significantly depending on location, but this range is fairly typical. Show-quality Bernese Mountain Dogs can command much higher prices, sometimes reaching up to $120,000 or more. In regions where breeding of Bernese Mountain Dogs is less common, a purebred male puppy might be around $6,000, although there can be some room for negotiation. Adult dogs are less common and typically priced upwards of $10,000. The scarcity of purebred Bernese Mountain Dogs in some areas contributes to the price, highlighting the importance of thorough research and reputable breeders when seeking one of these dogs.