Question 1

What should I know about Bernese Mountain Dogs?

Accepted Answer

Origin: They are one of four native Swiss Sennenhund breeds, named after the Canton of Bern, where they were used for guarding and pulling carts.
Appearance: They are large-framed, muscular, and sturdy dogs, typically weighing 70–116 pounds and standing 23–28 inches tall at the shoulder. Their coat is thick, long, and silky, featuring a distinct black, rust, and white pattern.
Temperament: Berners are famously gentle, affectionate, and good-natured, making them excellent family pets. They are often known for maintaining a playful, "puppy-like" brain into their adolescence.
Grooming & Shedding: They have a double coat that sheds heavily, requiring weekly brushing (daily during shedding seasons).
Exercise & Care: While they are strong enough to work, they are generally calm indoors and need roughly 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily.
Health and Lifespan: A significant drawback is their relatively short lifespan, which is typical of large breeds, usually living 7 to 10 years. They are unfortunately prone to certain types of cancer and orthopedic issues, such as hip and elbow dysplasia.
Training: They are generally easy to train due to their intelligence and eagerness to please

Question 2

How much does a puppy cost?

Accepted Answer

Puppies from Copper Star Berners can range in price. Typically starting at $4500. Our puppies are AKC registration eligible, coming from parents that have been genetically tested and are registered in the Berner- Garde foundation.

Question 3

What type of health-related care does our puppy receive?

Accepted Answer

Our puppies will be examined by our veterinarian, and will receive all all age appropriate vaccinations.

Question 4

How do we pick up our puppy?

Accepted Answer

We are located in Phoenix Arizona. New puppy parents often come from all over the country. Berner babies can fly in the cabin on several major Airlines that fly into and out of Sky Harbor International Airport. Travel and flight costs are the responsibility of the new family, but we are happy to help with arrangements however we can.

Question 5

When can I pick up my puppy?

Accepted Answer

Most puppies are ready for their new homes between 8 and 10 weeks old.

Question 6

What will go home with our puppy?

Accepted Answer

New Puppy information packs, the puppy's current food, AKC paperwork, and a baby blanket that smells like mom to help the baby feel more comfortable during travel and transition.

Question 7

Should I spay/neuter my puppy?

Accepted Answer

All puppies purchased from Copper Star Berners are required to be spayed or neutered. New puppy parents will need to sign a spay/neuter agreement.

Question 8

Will my puppy be registered? What does that mean?

Accepted Answer

The American Kennel Club (AKC) is the largest nonprofit registry of purebred dogs in the United States. It tracks the lineage of purebred dogs to ensure breed consistency.  Our puppies are born from AKC-registered parents and are able to be registered by the new owners.

Question 9

Where do your puppies come from?

Accepted Answer

Our puppies are born and cared for in our home. Both parents are our personal dogs and are very important family members.

Question 10

Do you offer breeding rights?

Accepted Answer

Copper Star Berners does not offer breeding rights and does require a spay/neuter contract to be signed.

Copper Star Bernese Mountain Dogs

Gentle giants born under the Arizona sky

Frequently Asked Questions