7 Things to Know Before Adopting a Saint Bernard: Essential Insights for Prospective Owners

Saint Bernards are big dogs with big hearts.

These gentle giants can make wonderful pets for the right families.

But before you bring one home, there are some important things to think about.

You need to be ready for a large, lovable dog that requires lots of care and attention. Saint Bernards weigh up to 180 pounds when fully grown.

They need space, exercise, grooming, and training.

With proper care, these dogs can be calm and friendly companions.

1) Large Size and Strength

Saint Bernards are known for their massive size.

These dogs can weigh between 140 to 180 pounds and stand up to 30 inches tall at the shoulder.

Their large size means they need plenty of space to move around comfortably.

You’ll need to consider if your home and yard can accommodate such a big dog.

Saint Bernards may not be suitable for small apartments or homes with limited space.

Their strength matches their size.

These dogs are incredibly powerful, which can be challenging if they’re not well-trained.

You’ll need to teach your Saint Bernard not to pull on the leash or jump on people.

Saint Bernards don’t always know their own strength.

This can be a concern if you have small children or elderly family members.

Accidental bumps or knocks from these gentle giants could cause injuries.

You’ll need to be physically capable of handling such a large dog.

This includes being able to control them on walks and during vet visits.

Their size also impacts practical considerations.

You’ll need a large vehicle to transport them and bigger supplies like beds and crates.

Food and medical costs will be higher for these big dogs compared to smaller breeds.

2) High Grooming Needs

Saint Bernards need a lot of grooming.

Their thick coats require regular brushing to stay healthy and tangle-free.

You’ll need to brush your Saint Bernard at least 2-3 times a week.

This helps remove loose fur and prevents matting.

During shedding seasons, daily brushing may be necessary.

These dogs shed excessively twice a year.

Be prepared for extra fur around your home during these times.

A good vacuum cleaner will be your best friend.

Bathing is important too, but don’t overdo it.

Washing your Saint Bernard every 6-8 weeks is usually enough.

Use dog-specific shampoo to keep their coat and skin healthy.

Don’t forget about other grooming tasks.

Trim their nails regularly and clean their ears to prevent infections.

Brushing their teeth is also crucial for good oral health.

Saint Bernards can drool a lot.

Keep a cloth handy to wipe their mouths and protect your furniture.

Regular face cleaning will help keep your dog fresh and comfortable.

Remember, grooming isn’t just about looks.

It’s a chance to check for any skin issues, lumps, or other health concerns.

Regular grooming sessions can help you spot problems early.

3) Plentiful Shedding

Saint Bernards are known for their thick, beautiful coats.

But with that coat comes a lot of shedding.

These gentle giants shed excessively twice a year.

You’ll need to be prepared for regular grooming sessions.

Brushing your Saint Bernard a few times a week can help manage the shedding.

During peak shedding seasons, daily brushing may be necessary.

Saint Bernards have a dense double coat.

This means they have a thick outer coat and a soft undercoat.

Both layers shed, contributing to the amount of fur you’ll find around your home.

Investing in a good vacuum cleaner is a smart move.

You’ll likely be using it often to keep your floors fur-free.

Lint rollers can also be helpful for quickly removing hair from clothes and furniture.

Regular bathing can help reduce shedding.

However, be careful not to bathe your Saint Bernard too often, as this can dry out their skin.

Aim for every 6-8 weeks or as needed.

A healthy diet can also impact shedding.

Feeding your Saint Bernard high-quality food with proper nutrients can help maintain a healthy coat and potentially reduce excessive shedding.

Remember, shedding is a natural process for dogs.

While you can’t stop it completely, with proper care and grooming, you can manage it effectively.

4) Gentle Giants with Kids

Saint Bernards are known for their patience and gentleness with children.

These gentle giants have a reputation for being great family dogs.

Their calm demeanor and protective nature make them excellent companions for kids of all ages.

Saint Bernards often form strong bonds with children in their families.

You’ll be amazed at how carefully these large dogs move around small children.

They seem to understand their size and adjust their behavior accordingly.

Despite their huge size, Saint Bernards are rarely aggressive.

They tend to be very tolerant of children’s antics and rough play.

Keep in mind that supervision is still important.

A Saint Bernard might accidentally knock over a small child simply due to its size and weight.

Early socialization and training are key.

This helps ensure your Saint Bernard learns how to interact safely with kids.

You should teach your children how to properly approach and handle such a large dog.

Mutual respect between the dog and kids is essential for a harmonious household.

Remember that Saint Bernards can be protective.

They may try to intervene if they think a child is in danger, even during innocent play.

With proper training and socialization, your Saint Bernard can become a loving, patient, and protective companion for your children.

5) Health Concerns

Saint Bernards are prone to certain health issues.

Before adopting one, you should be aware of these potential problems.

Hip dysplasia is common in large breeds like Saint Bernards.

This condition can cause pain and mobility issues.

Regular vet check-ups can help catch it early.

Eye problems are another concern.

Saint Bernards can develop eye conditions like cherry eye or entropion.

These may require surgery to correct.

Bloat is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.

It occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists.

You need to know the signs and act quickly if you suspect bloat.

Heart problems can affect Saint Bernards.

Regular heart check-ups are important to catch any issues early.

Joint problems like elbow dysplasia can also occur.

These can lead to arthritis and pain as your dog ages.

Skin issues are common in Saint Bernards.

Their thick coats can trap moisture, leading to hot spots or infections.

Being aware of these health concerns can help you provide better care for your Saint Bernard.

Regular vet visits and a healthy lifestyle can help prevent or manage many of these issues.

6) Feeding Costs

Saint Bernards are big eaters, and their food expenses can be substantial.

You’ll need to budget for high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs.

Adult Saint Bernards typically eat 6 to 8 cups of dry food per day.

This amount can vary based on their age, size, and activity level.

Puppies require 1.5 to 7.5 cups of food daily, depending on their age and growth stage.

As they grow, their food intake will increase.

You can expect to spend $100 to $150 per month on food for an adult Saint Bernard.

This cost may be higher if you choose premium or specialized diets.

Consider buying food in bulk to save money.

Many pet stores offer discounts on large bags of dog food.

Don’t forget to factor in treats and supplements.

These can add up, especially if you use them for training or to support joint health.

Water costs will also increase.

Saint Bernards drink a lot, so be prepared for higher water bills.

Remember to budget for food bowls and storage containers.

Large, sturdy bowls are best for these big dogs.

By planning for these feeding costs, you can ensure your Saint Bernard gets the nutrition they need without breaking the bank.

7) Exercise Requirements

Saint Bernards need daily exercise, but not as much as some other breeds.

They do well with moderate activity levels.

You should aim for about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day for your Saint Bernard.

This can be split into shorter sessions if needed.

A long daily walk at a brisk pace is usually enough to keep your Saint Bernard healthy and happy.

Remember to match their longer stride when walking.

Swimming can be a great low-impact exercise for Saint Bernards.

It helps them stay cool and is easier on their joints.

Avoid high-impact activities like running or jumping.

These can be hard on your Saint Bernard’s hips and joints due to their large size.

Shorter walks spread throughout the day can work well.

For example, you might do three 20-minute walks instead of one longer session.

Remember that Saint Bernards can overheat easily.

Exercise them during cooler parts of the day and always provide plenty of water.

Mental stimulation is also important.

Puzzle toys and training sessions can help keep your Saint Bernard’s mind active.

As your Saint Bernard ages, you may need to adjust their exercise routine.

Always watch for signs of fatigue or discomfort.

Understanding the Saint Bernard Breed

Saint Bernards are large, gentle dogs known for their friendly nature and impressive size.

These mountain dogs have a rich history and unique physical traits that make them stand out.

History and Origin

Saint Bernards originated in the Swiss Alps.

They were bred by monks at the Great St. Bernard Hospice in Switzerland.

The dogs helped rescue travelers lost in the snowy mountains.

These brave dogs saved many lives over the centuries.

They used their keen sense of smell to find people buried in avalanches.

Their large size allowed them to dig through snow and guide lost travelers to safety.

Today, Saint Bernards are no longer used for mountain rescues.

But they remain beloved family pets known for their gentle and protective nature.

Physical Characteristics

Saint Bernards are giant dogs with muscular bodies.

Males can reach heights of 28-30 inches, while females are typically 26-28 inches tall.

These dogs are heavy, with males weighing 140-180 pounds and females 120-140 pounds.

They have large heads, droopy jowls, and deep-set eyes.

Saint Bernards come in two coat types:

• Short-haired
• Long-haired

Their coats are usually white with red, brown, or brindle markings.

They shed a lot, especially during seasonal changes.

Temperament and Personality

Saint Bernards are known for their calm and friendly nature.

They’re patient with children and get along well with other pets.

These dogs are intelligent but can be stubborn.

Early training and socialization are important.

Despite their size, they don’t need excessive exercise.

Saint Bernards are loyal and protective of their families.

They may bark at strangers but are not typically aggressive.

These dogs crave human companionship and don’t like being left alone for long periods.

Keep in mind that young Saint Bernards can be playful and energetic.

They need guidance to learn not to jump or bump into things with their large bodies.

Preparing for a Saint Bernard

Saint Bernards are large, gentle dogs that need special care.

Getting ready for one means thinking about training, grooming, and health.

These big pups have unique needs in each area.

Training and Socialization

Training a Saint Bernard starts early.

These large dogs need firm but kind guidance.

Start with basic commands like sit, stay, and come.

Use positive rewards like treats and praise.

Socialize your Saint Bernard puppy from a young age.

Expose them to different people, animals, and situations.

This helps prevent fear or aggression later on.

Set rules about jumping or leaning on people.

Saint Bernards are big and can knock people over by accident.

Teach them to greet people calmly.

Be patient.

Saint Bernards can be stubborn at times.

Stay consistent with training and don’t give up.

Grooming Needs

Saint Bernards have thick coats that need regular care.

Brush your dog at least 2-3 times a week to remove loose fur and prevent mats.

During shedding seasons, you’ll need to brush daily.

Be ready for lots of fur around your home.

Bathe your Saint Bernard every 6-8 weeks or when they get dirty.

Use dog-specific shampoo to protect their skin.

Clean their ears weekly to prevent infections.

Trim nails regularly, about every 2-3 weeks.

Don’t forget to brush their teeth several times a week.

This helps prevent dental problems.

Health Considerations

Saint Bernards are prone to certain health issues. Regular vet check-ups are crucial to catch problems early.

Watch for signs of hip dysplasia, a common issue in large breeds.

Keep your dog at a healthy weight to reduce strain on their joints.

Eye problems can occur in Saint Bernards.

Look out for redness, squinting, or discharge.

Bloat is a serious risk.

Feed your dog smaller meals throughout the day instead of one large meal.

In hot weather, provide plenty of water and shade.

Saint Bernards can overheat easily due to their size and thick coat.