10 Things to Know About Saint Bernard Dogs Before Buying

The Saint Bernard dog breed is one many of us remember fondly from classic television advertisements, known as gentle giants with a calm and friendly personality. Loved particularly by families with children, they are large dogs that require thoughtful care and suitable space.

If your home and lifestyle can accommodate this majestic breed, the Saint Bernard has much to offer. However, they are a significant commitment and understanding their needs is vital before deciding to bring one into your family.

Here are ten key things you should know about Saint Bernard dogs to make an informed, responsible choice.

1. Saint Bernards Are Very Large

Saint Bernards are truly giant dogs. Males typically stand between 66-76 cm tall at the withers and can weigh between 63-82 kg, with females slightly smaller but still very substantial. Seeing one for the first time can be surprising due to their sheer size.

This means you will need a spacious home with room for them to move comfortably, plus larger accessories like beds and bowls. Their size also contributes to higher feeding and care costs.

2. Buying and Owning a Saint Bernard Is Quite Expensive

Obtaining a Saint Bernard puppy from a reputable breeder typically costs several hundred to over a thousand pounds in the UK, depending on pedigree and breeder reputation. It’s essential to avoid puppies from puppy farms to ensure health and ethical breeding practices.

Owning a Saint Bernard involves ongoing expenses: they can cost around £105 monthly for food, grooming, and health care. Over a lifetime, costs may reach up to £17,000, reflecting their size and veterinary needs.

3. Saint Bernards Have a Shorter Lifespan Compared to Smaller Dogs

As a giant breed, Saint Bernards generally live between 8 and 10 years, which is shorter than smaller breeds. Lifespan can vary based on genetics, health care, diet, and overall living conditions.

4. They Are Not Among the Most Intelligent Dog Breeds

Saint Bernards rank lower in canine intelligence studies, often placing around 123rd out of 138 breeds in obedience and working intelligence tests. While not the quickest learners, their gentle temperament and loyalty make them wonderful pets.

5. High Shedding and Coat Maintenance

These dogs have thick, dense double coats that shed heavily year-round, with intensified seasonal shedding twice a year. They require daily grooming and brushing to maintain coat health and reduce fur around your home.

Regular baths and nail trims are also necessary. Their size often means professional grooming can be a helpful part of care.

6. Saint Bernards Are Messy Housemates

Alongside fur shedding, they are known for slobbering significantly, with drool commonly deposited on their owners and surroundings. They are also messy eaters. If a tidy home is a priority, this breed may require patience and acceptance of a bit of mess.

7. Moderate Exercise Needs

Unlike many large breeds, Saint Bernards have moderate exercise requirements. Two daily walks of around 45 minutes each, with some off-lead socialisation, generally meet their physical and mental needs. They enjoy calm activity rather than vigorous exercise.

8. Health Concerns: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Are Common

Saint Bernards are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, painful joint conditions that can impact mobility. Responsible breeders will conduct health screenings such as BVA/Kennel Club Hip Dysplasia scoring and only breed from dogs with good results to minimise these issues.

Other health concerns can include bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), heart conditions, skin infections, and eye problems. Regular veterinary care and preventive measures are essential.

9. Require Spacious Homes and Understanding Owners

This breed is best suited to owners who have ample living space and a calm, patient temperament. They thrive in family environments where they are treated as gentle companions and are not expected to perform extensive training or tricks.

10. Choose Reputable Breeders or Consider Adoption

If you decide on adding a Saint Bernard to your family, look for reputable breeders who perform health testing and have a history of ethical breeding practices. Adoption is another responsible option, often providing a loving home to an adult dog in need.

Careful consideration and commitment are necessary to provide the best life for this magnificent breed.

When Can Puppies Leave Their Mother?

Quick Answer: Saint Bernard puppies should typically remain with their mother until at least 8 weeks old, with many breeders recommending waiting until 10 to 12 weeks.

Keeping puppies with their mother and littermates until this age supports social development, weaning, and essential learning behaviours. Early separation can affect temperament and future training ability, so wait for the breeder's guidance on the best time for rehoming.

How to Find a Reputable Saint Bernard Breeder

Finding a trustworthy breeder is crucial for the health and wellbeing of your Saint Bernard puppy. Ask for references, visit the breeding premises if possible, and ensure the breeder conducts health checks like hip and elbow scoring. The Saint Bernard puppies section on pets4homes is a good starting point to find registered and trusted breeders in the UK.

Avoid buying puppies from pet shops, online ads without verification, or sellers who cannot provide veterinary records.

Conclusion

The Saint Bernard is a loving, gentle giant that can make a fantastic family dog if their unique needs and traits are well understood. From their large size and substantial care requirements to their health predispositions and temperament, prospective owners must be prepared for a long-term commitment.

By choosing reputable breeders or adoption routes and preparing your home accordingly, you can enjoy many years of companionship with one of the most iconic and endearing giant dog breeds in the UK.