Introduction
Saint Bernards are majestic giants, originally trained by monks in the 1600s to brave the snowy Swiss Alps in search of travelers trapped by avalanches. While many still serve heroically in search and rescue missions today, most Saint Bernards now bring warmth and devotion to families as gentle, loving companions.
Known for their calm and friendly nature, Saint Bernards typically thrive around young children, making them exceptional family pets. Their charm captivated audiences worldwide after the release of the beloved 1992 family film Beethoven, which showcased their affectionate spirit.
Caring for a Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards deeply enjoy playful interaction and the company of their human family members. They possess a moderate energy level, requiring at least one invigorating 30-minute walk daily, though they readily embrace longer walks or hikes if given the chance.
Before welcoming a Saint Bernard into your home, ensure you have ample space to accommodate their massive size. These gentle giants typically weigh between 120 and 180 pounds and stand as tall as 30 inches at the shoulder, demanding room to move freely and comfortably.
Saint Bernard Health Issues
The average lifespan of a Saint Bernard is 8–10 years, which aligns with expectations for a giant breed. Generally robust, Saint Bernards can be prone to certain health conditions unique to their size and genetics.
It is crucial to choose a trusted breeder who prioritizes health by only producing puppies certified through PennHIP hip evaluations and adhering to breed standards, ensuring your Saint Bernard begins life on a strong foundation.
Bloat and Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus
Deep-chested breeds like Saint Bernards are vulnerable to bloat, a dangerous condition where the stomach fills with gas, causing a sudden and painful abdominal distension.
Bloat can escalate into gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) if the stomach twists, disrupting blood flow to vital organs—a critical emergency requiring immediate veterinary care.
Watch for warning signs of GDV after meals, including:
- Restlessness and pacing
- Excessive drooling
- Attempts to vomit without success
- Loss of appetite
To protect your Saint Bernard from bloat and GDV, consult your veterinarian about the possibility of gastropexy surgery. This preventative procedure secures the stomach to the abdominal wall, often performed during spay or neuter surgeries.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia—a genetic joint disorder—is marked by the improper fit of the thigh bone (femur) in the hip socket, leading to discomfort, inflammation, and arthritis over time.
This condition can affect one or both hips and may be present from birth or develop as Saint Bernards age.
PennHIP screening, available as early as 16 weeks, uses specialized pelvic X-rays to identify dogs at risk, enabling early intervention.
Depending on severity, treatments range from joint supplements, medications, weight control, and activity modification to corrective surgery for advanced cases.
Osteosarcoma
Saint Bernards face an increased risk of osteosarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer that often appears in the thigh bone (femur) or upper arm bone (humerus), though it can affect other bones.
Typical signs include limping, localized bone pain, and firm swelling near the tumor. Diagnosis involves X-rays, followed by needle aspiration or biopsy for confirmation.
Upon diagnosis, further testing assesses whether cancer has spread. Treatment varies, including pain relief, targeted radiation, surgical amputation, and chemotherapy, tailored to the tumor’s location and progression.
Lymphoma
Lymphoma, a cancer originating in the lymph nodes with potential to spread throughout the body, also affects Saint Bernards. Chemotherapy is the primary treatment to manage this condition.
Cervical Vertebral Instability (Wobbler Syndrome)
Wobbler syndrome is a neurological disorder caused by malformations in the neck vertebrae, leading to instability and spinal cord compression.
Affected Saint Bernards may experience neck pain, incoordination, weakness in all four limbs, and dragging of feet. Symptoms can appear suddenly in young dogs or progress slowly over time.
Diagnosis relies on physical exams and imaging techniques like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. Mild cases respond well to pain-relief medications, while severe instances may require surgery.
Managing exercise carefully and opting for harnesses over collars helps minimize neck strain. Early diagnosis and treatment greatly improve outcomes.
Entropion
Entropion occurs when an eyelid rolls inward, causing hairs and fur to irritate the eye’s surface—this painful condition can lead to corneal ulcers.
Surgical correction involves removing excess eyelid skin to prevent inward rolling, restoring comfort and eye health.
What To Feed a Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards require a premium-quality large or giant-breed dog food tailored to their specific life stage—puppy, adult, or senior.
Your veterinarian can assist in selecting the ideal diet that complies with the nutritional guidelines set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), ensuring complete and balanced nutrition.
How To Feed a Saint Bernard
Puppies should receive a specially formulated large or giant-breed puppy diet until they reach 18 to 24 months, after which a gradual transition to adult food is recommended.
To reduce the risk of bloat and GDV during feeding times, consider these strategies:
- Divide meals into two or three smaller servings instead of one large meal
- Place food bowls on the floor, avoiding elevated feeders
- Feed multiple dogs separately to decrease mealtime stress
- Avoid exercise for at least one hour before and after eating
- Refrain from adding water to dry kibble, especially if it contains citric acid
- Do not overfeed your Saint Bernard
- Use slow-feed bowls if your dog eats rapidly
How Much Should You Feed a Saint Bernard?
Refer to feeding guidelines on your dog food packaging and consult your veterinarian to determine the precise portion size based on your Saint Bernard’s ideal weight and life stage.
Accurate measurement at each meal helps prevent overfeeding and supports healthy weight management.
Nutritional Tips for Saint Bernards
While a balanced, AAFCO-approved diet typically covers all nutritional needs, Saint Bernards’ large size often benefits from supplementary joint support and omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation and maintain joint health.
Saint Bernard Personality and Temperament
Saint Bernards possess a calm, patient temperament that makes them excellent family companions. Their gentle nature shines through especially around children familiar with respectful interactions.
Highly social and devoted, they can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
Saint Bernard Behavior
Puppies display playful energy that mellows as they mature. With generally low prey drive and well-socialized backgrounds, Saint Bernards coexist peacefully with other pets.
Though not frequent barkers, Saint Bernards are known to dig—a trait stemming from their heritage as search and rescue dogs. To protect your yard, supervise outdoor playtime.
Saint Bernard Training
Due to their considerable size and strength, early training and socialization are essential for Saint Bernards.
Highly intelligent and eager to please, they excel in puppy socialization, obedience, and advanced training classes. Teaching commands helps manage behaviors such as jumping, begging, and excitability, ensuring safety around children and guests.
With consistent positive reinforcement, Saint Bernards are responsive and make rewarding companions. Special training is required when considering them for search and rescue purposes.
Fun Activities for Saint Bernards
Saint Bernards thrive in a variety of enjoyable activities, such as:
- Carting and drafting competitions
- Nose work and scent games
- Playing in the snow
- Protecting and watching over children
- Hiking adventures
- Camping and backpacking trips
- Playing fetch
- Swimming sessions
Saint Bernard Grooming Guide
Saint Bernards sport either medium-length or shorter coats, both thick and shedding moderately year-round, with heavier molts during spring and fall, according to Petscarelab experts.
Grooming needs are similar regardless of coat length, requiring regular brushing, occasional baths, and routine nail trimming.
Skin Care
Saint Bernards have minimal skin care demands, needing baths only as necessary to maintain cleanliness. Your vet can advise on appropriate bathing frequency and dog-friendly shampoos.
Due to their broad heads and drooling tendency, it’s important to keep the mouth area clean to prevent irritation.
Coat Care
The short coat is easier to maintain, being less prone to tangles and mats, but all Saint Bernards benefit from brushing once or twice weekly.
During heavy shedding phases, daily brushing with tools like metal combs and slicker brushes helps keep their thick coat healthy and comfortable.
Eye Care
Common tear stains can occur and should be gently wiped away using a warm cloth or dog-safe wipes.
Monitor your dog’s eyes for redness, squinting, or excessive pawing, which may signal issues such as entropion. Consult your veterinarian promptly if you notice concerning symptoms.
Ear Care
With their floppy ears, large ear canals, and love of water, Saint Bernards are predisposed to ear infections.
Regular ear cleaning—every two to three weeks and after bathing or swimming—with vet-recommended solutions is vital to prevent infections.
Considerations for Pet Parents
Saint Bernards are among the most loving and gentle dog breeds, ideally suited for affectionate families who enjoy spending time at home, especially those with young children.
They crave constant companionship and can develop separation anxiety and destructive behaviors like digging if left alone too long. Therefore, people who are away from home extensively may not be the best match for this breed.
Their colossal size demands plenty of living space; while not ideal for apartment life, a spacious apartment can work if daily exercise needs are met.
Because of their strength and size, early, consistent training is critical. All Saint Bernard puppies benefit greatly from socialization, puppy classes, and obedience training to ensure well-mannered behavior around people and other animals.
Is a Saint Bernard a good family dog?
Absolutely! Saint Bernards are affectionate, gentle, and particularly great around young children, making them outstanding family pets.
Are Saint Bernards lazy or active?
Saint Bernards have moderate energy levels—not overly active but requiring regular daily exercise to stay healthy and happy.
Are Saint Bernards smart dogs?
Yes, they are highly intelligent and quick learners who respond well to praise and treats, eager to please their families.
Are Saint Bernards expensive?
Prices typically range between $1,000 and $2,500, with dogs from champion bloodlines on the higher end. Rescue and shelter adoptions are also great options.
What is the lifespan of a Saint Bernard dog?
On average, Saint Bernards live between 8 and 10 years.
