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St. Bernard

Working Group

Calm, relaxed and sensible

St. Bernard

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Breed Overview

Saint Bernards are known for their calm and patient demeanor, making them excellent companions, especially for families with children. However, due to their size, they require sufficient living space.

Physical Characteristics
  • Size Large
  • Height Males typically 28-30 inches or more at the shoulder; females slightly smaller
  • Weight Males range from 140-180 pounds; females are generally 120-140 pounds
  • Life Span Typically 8-10 years, which is common for breeds of this size
  • Coat Two types - smooth and rough. The smooth coat is dense and lies flat, while the rough coat is longer and more bushy
  • Color Commonly found in white with red, brown, or brindle markings
  • Grooming Requires regular grooming, especially for the rough-coated variety. They are heavy shedders, particularly during seasonal changes
  • Temperament Known for being gentle, friendly, and tolerant of children. They are loyal and can be protective of their family
  • Energy Level Moderate
  • Intelligence High
Health Needs
  • Exercise Moderate. Despite their size, they do not require extensive exercise but do enjoy regular walks and playtime
  • Trainability Good. Their eagerness to please and intelligence make them relatively easy to train, though early and consistent training is necessary due to their size
  • Socialization Requires early and ongoing socialization to become well-adjusted adults. Naturally friendly but can be reserved without it
  • Grooming Requires regular grooming, especially for the rough-coated variety. They are heavy shedders, particularly during seasonal changes
  • Health Issues Prone to certain health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, heart problems, and bloating. They need to maintain a healthy weight to avoid exacerbating health issues
Environment
  • Suitability for Families Excellent. Known for their gentle nature and patience with children, making them great family pets
  • Suitable Living Space Due to their size, they fare better in homes with more space. However, they can adapt to apartment living if given adequate exercise

About the Breed

The Saint Bernard is celebrated for its kind nature and imposing presence. Despite their size, they are known to be gentle and patient, especially with children, making them excellent family pets.

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History of the Breed

Originally bred in the Swiss Alps and northern Italy for rescue at the Great St. Bernard Pass, this breed has a heroic history of saving lives in snowy, treacherous conditions. The Saint Bernard’s keen sense of direction and resistance to cold made them invaluable for rescuing travelers buried by avalanches.

Italy

Fun Facts About the Saint Bernard

St. Bernard

They were named after Archdeacon Bernard de Menthon, the founder of the hospice at the Great St. Bernard Pass.

st. bernard

The legendary Saint Bernard, Barry, is said to have saved over 40 lives in the early 1800s.

St. Bernard-01

They don't actually carry brandy barrels around their necks – this is a myth popularized by artistic depictions.

    What To Expect When Caring For a Saint Bernard

    Health

    They can be prone to health issues like hip dysplasia, heart conditions, and bloat. Regular vet check-ups are important to manage and prevent potential health problems.

    Grooming

    Both the smooth and long-haired varieties require regular grooming to manage shedding. Brushing a few times a week and more during shedding seasons is recommended.

    Exercise

    Moderate daily exercise is sufficient for Saint Bernards. They enjoy walks and play but do not require intense physical activity.

    Training

    Early socialization and obedience training are essential. Despite their size, they are sensitive and respond well to positive reinforcement methods.

    Nutrition

    A diet suitable for large breeds is necessary, with careful monitoring to prevent overfeeding and obesity. Consultation with a vet can help tailor the right nutrition plan.

    In conclusion, the Saint Bernard is a symbol of loyalty, courage, and gentle strength. Owning one requires commitment to their care, space to accommodate their size, and, above all, a big heart ready to receive the immense love and devotion they offer. They are not just pets but true members of the family, bringing warmth, joy, and a little bit of heroism into the home.

    Saint Bernard Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests

    Saint Bernards, like many large dog breeds, are prone to certain health issues. Understanding these concerns and the recommended tests can help in ensuring the well-being of these gentle giants.

    Description: A genetic condition where the hip or elbow joint doesn't fit together perfectly, which can lead to arthritis or lameness.

    Recommended Test: Hip and Elbow Evaluation: X-rays to check for dysplasia. This is crucial for breeding dogs to ensure they don't pass the condition to their offspring.

    Description: A life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists, requiring immediate veterinary intervention.

    Recommended Test: Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat) Awareness: While there's no specific test for bloat, educating yourself on the symptoms and preventive measures is crucial.

    Description: They are susceptible to various heart conditions, including dilated cardiomyopathy and aortic stenosis.

    Recommended Test: Cardiac Exam: Regular heart checks by a veterinarian to screen for heart diseases.

    Description: These are eyelid disorders where the eyelids roll inwards (entropion) or outwards (ectropion), which can cause irritation or injury to the eye.

    Recommended Test: Eye Examination: Routine checks for entropion, ectropion, and other eye conditions.

    Description: Saint Bernards are at a higher risk for this type of cancer, which affects the bones.

    Recommended Test: Blood Tests: Regular blood work to monitor overall health, including liver and kidney function, and to detect early signs of cancer or other diseases.

    Hip and Elbow Dysplasia

    Description: A genetic condition where the hip or elbow joint doesn't fit together perfectly, which can lead to arthritis or lameness.

    Recommended Test: Hip and Elbow Evaluation: X-rays to check for dysplasia. This is crucial for breeding dogs to ensure they don't pass the condition to their offspring.

    Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)

    Description: A life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists, requiring immediate veterinary intervention.

    Recommended Test: Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat) Awareness: While there's no specific test for bloat, educating yourself on the symptoms and preventive measures is crucial.

    Cardiac Issues

    Description: They are susceptible to various heart conditions, including dilated cardiomyopathy and aortic stenosis.

    Recommended Test: Cardiac Exam: Regular heart checks by a veterinarian to screen for heart diseases.

    Entropion/Ectropion

    Description: These are eyelid disorders where the eyelids roll inwards (entropion) or outwards (ectropion), which can cause irritation or injury to the eye.

    Recommended Test: Eye Examination: Routine checks for entropion, ectropion, and other eye conditions.

    Osteosarcoma (Bone Cancer)

    Description: Saint Bernards are at a higher risk for this type of cancer, which affects the bones.

    Recommended Test: Blood Tests: Regular blood work to monitor overall health, including liver and kidney function, and to detect early signs of cancer or other diseases.

    Understanding these health concerns and staying proactive with testing and preventive care can help ensure that your Saint Bernard lives a long, healthy, and happy life.

    Prescription Medication Assistance for Saint Bernards

    The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

    How Much Does It Cost To Care For A Saint Bernard?

    Caring for a Saint Bernard involves various expenses, and due to their large size, some of these costs can be higher than those for smaller breeds. Here’s a breakdown of the annual costs:

    A purebred Saint Bernard puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.

    Initial Cost

    $1000 - 2500

    Potential Additional Costs:

    When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow Saint Bernard enthusiasts.

    Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

    Initial Cost

    $100 - 300

    Potential Additional Costs:

    You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

    High-quality dog food and treats for a large-sized breed.

    Estimated Cost

    $500 - 1000

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Learn more about the best quality dog food for Saint Bernards.

    Saint Bernards require regular grooming.

    Estimated Cost

    $100 - 400

    Potential Additional Costs:

    If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, nail trimmers, and haircutting shears.

    Saint Bernards require routine vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.

    Estimated Cost

    $200 - 500

    Potential Additional Costs:

    The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

    Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

    Estimated Cost

    $200 - 600

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your Saint Bernard's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!

    Your Saint Bernard will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

    Estimated Cost

    $100 - 300

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

    Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

    Estimated Cost

    $200 - 1000

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

    Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

    Estimated Cost

    Varies based on need

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

    If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

    Estimated Cost

    Varies based on need

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

    A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

    Estimated Cost

    $50 - 100

    Total Estimated Annual Cost:

    $2450 - $6700

    It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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