Introduction
Saint Bernards are majestic giant dogs, originally trained by monks in the 1600s to bravely search for and rescue individuals trapped in avalanches in the rugged Swiss Alps. Today, while they continue to serve as reliable search and rescue dogs, most Saint Bernards find their place as loving and gentle family companions.
Known for their friendly and easygoing nature, Saint Bernards generally thrive in households with young children, making them exceptional family pets. Their popularity soared dramatically after the release of the 1992 family film Beethoven, which showcased their charming personality.
Caring for a Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards relish spending time with their family members and enjoy playful interactions. They possess a moderate energy level, requiring at least one daily walk lasting 30 minutes, though they’re more than happy to accompany you on extended hikes or longer strolls when the opportunity arises.
Before bringing a Saint Bernard into your home, ensure you have ample space to accommodate this gentle giant. These dogs typically weigh between 120 and 180 pounds and stand as tall as 30 inches at the shoulders, necessitating enough room to move comfortably.
Saint Bernard Health Issues
The average lifespan of a Saint Bernard is 8 to 10 years, which aligns with the typical longevity of giant breeds. Generally healthy, Saint Bernards are nevertheless predisposed to certain medical conditions that prospective owners should be aware of.
It’s crucial to obtain your Saint Bernard puppy from a responsible breeder who prioritizes health, breeding only puppies that meet breed standards, are PennHIP-certified (a hip evaluation certification), and free from genetic diseases.
Bloat and Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus
Saint Bernards, with their large, deep chests, are vulnerable to bloat—a condition where the stomach fills with gas, causing a sudden and painful distention of the abdomen.
Bloat can escalate into gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), a severe emergency where the stomach twists and cuts off blood flow to vital organs. This condition is extremely painful and potentially fatal and requires immediate veterinary attention.
If your Saint Bernard displays any GDV symptoms after eating, such as:
- Restlessness and pacing
- Excessive drooling
- Attempts to vomit without producing anything
- Loss of appetite
seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
Discuss preventative measures with your vet, including a gastropexy—a surgical procedure that tacks the stomach to the abdominal wall to stop it from twisting. This surgery is often performed concurrently with spay or neuter procedures.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a hereditary orthopedic disorder in which the femoral head (thigh bone) fails to snugly fit into the hip socket. This improper fit causes bone to grind against joint surfaces, progressively leading to pain, inflammation, and arthritis.
This condition can affect one or both hips. While congenital hip dysplasia in Saint Bernard puppies is uncommon, senior dogs may develop it over time.
PennHIP screening, performed as early as 16 weeks old, uses specialized pelvic X-rays to detect dogs at risk of hip dysplasia. Early identification through PennHIP allows for timely management.
Treatment varies with severity: mild cases benefit from joint supplements, medications, weight management, and reduced activity, while severe cases might require surgical intervention.
Osteosarcoma
Saint Bernards carry a higher risk for osteosarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer that commonly affects the femur (thigh bone) or humerus (upper arm bone), though it can manifest in other bones too.
Symptoms include limping, localized bone pain, and hard swelling near the tumor. X-rays are essential for diagnosis, but confirming osteosarcoma typically necessitates a needle aspirate or bone biopsy.
Upon diagnosis, additional testing helps determine if cancer has spread. Treatment options involve pain management, targeted radiation therapy, surgical removal often through limb amputation, and chemotherapy, depending on tumor location and cancer extent.
Lymphoma
Saint Bernards are also predisposed to lymphoma, a cancer originating in lymph nodes that often spreads throughout the body. Chemotherapy typically forms the cornerstone of treatment for lymphoma.
Cervical Vertebral Instability (Wobbler Syndrome)
Cervical vertebral instability, commonly called wobbler syndrome, is a neurological condition caused by malformations in the spine or neck bones.
Affected Saint Bernards may exhibit neck pain, weak coordination, limb weakness, and dragging paws. Symptoms might appear suddenly in young dogs but usually progress slowly over time.
Diagnosis is made through physical examination and imaging such as neck X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. Mild cases may respond well to anti-inflammatory and pain-relief medications, while severe cases often require surgical intervention.
Limiting exercise and using a harness instead of a collar can help alleviate neck pain. Many Saint Bernards experience noticeable improvement when diagnosed early and treated appropriately.
Entropion
Entropion is an eyelid disorder where the eyelid folds inward, causing eyelashes and fur to irritate the eye’s surface (cornea).
This painful condition can lead to corneal ulcers if untreated. Surgery to remove excess eyelid skin is necessary to correct entropion and relieve discomfort.
What To Feed a Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards thrive on a premium diet specially formulated for large or giant breeds, aligned with their specific life stage—puppy, adult, or senior.
Consult with your veterinarian to select the best dog food for your Saint Bernard. Make sure the food meets the nutritional requirements outlined by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
How To Feed a Saint Bernard
Puppies should receive a large- or giant-breed puppy formula until they reach 18 to 24 months. Transition gradually to adult food afterward.
To reduce the risk of bloat or GDV, consider these feeding strategies:
- Divide daily food into two or three smaller meals instead of one big portion
- Keep food bowls on the ground rather than elevated
- Feed multiple dogs separately to minimize stress
- Avoid vigorous exercise one hour before and after eating
- Do not add water to dry food, especially if it contains citric acid
- Prevent overfeeding to maintain healthy weight
- Use slow-feeder bowls if your Saint Bernard eats rapidly
How Much Should You Feed a Saint Bernard?
Rely on feeding recommendations on dog food packaging and personalize portion sizes with your vet’s advice, considering your dog’s ideal weight and age.
Measure food precisely for each meal to avoid overfeeding.
Nutritional Tips for Saint Bernards
While a complete, balanced diet formulated by AAFCO standards will cover essential nutrients, your adult Saint Bernard’s large frame may benefit from additional joint support supplements and omega-3 fatty acids recommended by your veterinarian to minimize inflammation.
Saint Bernard Personality and Temperament
With their calm and gentle disposition, Saint Bernards are renowned for being wonderful family companions. They are especially known for their patience with children who understand how to interact respectfully with dogs.
As loyal and people-oriented dogs, Saint Bernards can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
Saint Bernard Behavior
Puppies are lively and playful, but as they mature, they tend to mellow out. Most Saint Bernards exhibit low prey drives and coexist well with other pets when socialized early.
Though not known for excessive barking, they do enjoy digging—a trait harking back to their heritage as search and rescue dogs. To protect your garden or yard, supervise your dog when outdoors.
Saint Bernard Training
Given their substantial size and strength, early training and socialization for Saint Bernards are essential for safe handling.
Their intelligence and eagerness to please mean they excel in socialization, puppy classes, and obedience training. Such training teaches manners like being calm around children, refraining from jumping on people, and resisting the temptation to scavenge food from counters.
Gentle positive reinforcement methods work best with this affectionate breed. If you plan to train a Saint Bernard for search and rescue roles, specialized training programs will be necessary.
Fun Activities for Saint Bernards
- Participating in carting and drafting competitions
- Engaging in nose work games
- Playing enthusiastically in the snow
- Watching over and playing with young children
- Enjoying hiking adventures
- Going camping or backpacking
- Playing fetch
- Swimming and water games
Saint Bernard Grooming Guide
Saint Bernards come with either medium-length or shorter coats, both thick and resilient. This breed sheds moderately throughout the year, with increased shedding during spring and fall seasons.
Grooming requirements are similar regardless of coat length, involving regular brushing, occasional baths, and steady nail care.
Skin Care
Saint Bernards do not need extensive skin maintenance, requiring only periodic baths to stay clean and fresh. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on optimal bathing frequency and pet-safe shampoos.
One notable feature is their large, drooling mouth, so be sure to keep the skin around the mouth clean and dry.
Coat Care
Medium and short coats both benefit from brushing once or twice weekly to keep hair healthy and untangled.
During heavy shedding seasons, daily brushing will help manage loose hair and maintain skin health. Use a slicker brush combined with a metal comb to give the best results.
Eye Care
Saint Bernards can experience tear staining, which you can gently clean with a warm washcloth or dog-safe eye wipes as needed.
Monitor for signs of eye problems like redness, squinting, or pawing at the face, as these could indicate issues such as entropion requiring veterinary attention.
Ear Care
Their large, floppy ears and love of swimming make Saint Bernards prone to ear infections.
Prevent problems by cleaning their ears every two to three weeks with a vet-approved ear cleaner, as well as after baths and swimming sessions.
Considerations for Pet Parents
Saint Bernards are among the most affectionate and gentle dog breeds, ideal for families that enjoy spending quality time indoors with young children.
They thrive on companionship and can develop separation anxiety, often exhibiting destructive behaviors like digging when left alone too long. Hence, owners who work long hours away from home may not be the best match for this breed.
Due to their imposing size, Saint Bernards require spacious environments. While not ideally suited for apartment living, they can adapt to a large enough apartment if daily exercise needs are met.
Because of their strength and size, early, thorough training is indispensable. All puppies should enroll in socialization, puppy, and obedience classes to cultivate well-mannered adult dogs.
Is a Saint Bernard a good family dog?
Absolutely! Saint Bernards are incredibly affectionate and typically gentle with young children, making them excellent family pets.
Are Saint Bernards lazy or active?
While less energetic than many breeds, Saint Bernards require moderate daily exercise to stay healthy and content.
Are Saint Bernards smart dogs?
Yes, Saint Bernards are intelligent and eager to learn, responding well to positive reinforcement training techniques.
Are Saint Bernards expensive?
Prices for Saint Bernards generally range from $1,000 to $2,500, with champion lineage dogs commanding higher prices. Additionally, rescue and shelter organizations often have Saint Bernards available for adoption.
What is the lifespan of a Saint Bernard dog?
The average Saint Bernard lives between 8 and 10 years, consistent with the lifespan of other giant breeds.
