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Saint Bernard

Saint Bernard

Origin

🇨🇭

Switzerland

Size

Giant Breed

Ideal Space

House with backyard

Ideal Weather

5º-25ºC

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹5,700

Basic Lifestyle

₹8,550

Premium Lifestyle

Top 5 Traits

Loyal

Protective

Intelligent

Fearless

Energetic

Saint Bernard

Quick Information

The Saint Bernard has an amazing backstory. They were trained by monks in the Swiss Alps in the 1600s. Their main job was to search and rescue those buried in avalanches. 

A Saint Bernard is a gentle giant with a heart as big as its size. It’s gaining popularity in India among families with large homes in cooler climates. The breed is known for its calm, affectionate and protective nature.  

They require regular grooming to manage their thick, dense coat and regular exercise to prevent obesity. 

According to the American Kennel Club, Saint Bernards are popular family pets as they are known to be loyal and patient. The best part? They are good with children. 

They are known for their strength, intelligence, and loving disposition. Despite their large size, they are gentle and thrive in spacious homes.

 

Characteristics

Barking

Quiet

Loud

Temperament with Kids

Aggressive

Friendly

Playfulness

Silent

Very Playful

Friendliness

Not Friendly

Super Friendly

Compatibility with other dogs

Aggressive

Friendly

Need for attention

Independent

Very Needy

Monthly Expenses

Featured

Saint Bernard PUPPIES FOR YOU

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Madhya Pradesh

Male4 Months old

Saint Bernard male puppy
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Tamil Nadu

Female5 Months old

Jv
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Tamil Nadu

Male5 Months old

Haze
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Nutrition

Monthly Food Expenses

₹ 3,000 - ₹ 4,500

Calories per day

Puppies2200 kcal

Adults2000 kcal

Essential Nutrients

Carbohydrates

Fats

Protein

Minerals

Vitamins

Fibre

List of foods

Chicken

Home made meals

Dry Dog Food

Fresh Meat

Fresh Fish

Fruits

Mutton

Vegetables

An AAFCO-approved diet is the best for a Saint Bernard. Given their large size and moderate energy levels, their food should include high-quality proteins like chicken, beef, or lamb to support muscle health.

As Saint Bernards are prone to joint issues, their diet should include glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support. Adding omega fatty acids helps maintain their dense coat and overall health.

For those opting for homecooked meals, ensure they are well-balanced and meet the breed’s specific nutritional requirements. Portion control is key, as Saint Bernards are susceptible to obesity.

 

Breakdown of Macro-nutrients

Selecting Good Quality Food

  • Choose a premium dry food curated for large breeds. Keep in mind that chicken, beef or lamb has to be the primary ingredient. 
  • Keep in mind that Saint Bernards require high-quality protein-heavy foods to support their muscle mass and overall health.
  • Incorporate healthy fats like fish oil to maintain their dense coat and support joint health.
  • Add small portions of dog-safe vegetables and fruits as they provide nutrients and antioxidants. Since Saint Bernards are prone to joint issues, look for food that includes glucosamine and chondroitin. 
  • Opt for kibble to promote dental health and reduce tartar buildup.
 

Never feed these foods to Saint Bernard

Avoid anything with these ingredients

Almonds

Alcohol

Dairy

Avocados

Salt

Onions

Mushrooms

Cherries

Cinnamon

Coffee / Tea

Garlic

Grapes

Certain foods with artificial additives like soy, corn, and preservatives can be harmful to Saint Bernards. Don't feed them products with artificial sweeteners, flavors and colors as the breed is prone to obesity. Some of those can also trigger allergies and digestive issues.

Toxic foods like chocolate, garlic, onions, raisins, grapes and xylitol should never be given. Saint Bernards require a balanced diet suited to their size and activity level. Saint Bernards weigh over a 100 pounds and it is very easy for them to become obese and develop joint problems. Overfeeding and excessive treats should be avoided. 


Important Note: This information is for general guidance only. Always consult a qualified veterinarian for personalized advice.

 
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Health

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹ 1,500 - ₹ 2,250

Common Health Issues

Bloat

Kennel Cough

Hip Dysplasia

Parasites

Heartworm

Well being

Exercise

Bonding

Games

Socialization

Hiking

Energy Level

Medium

Exercise routine

30 - 60 minutes

Recognising Stress

Changes in appetite

Excessive Barking

Pacing

Excessive Panting

Reluctance to move

Increased laziness

Medical Care

Some common health issues found in Saint Bernards, recognized by PetMD and breed experts, are:


  • Hip & Elbow Dysplasia: Abnormal joint development that causes pain, arthritis, and mobility issues.
  • Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat): A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists, requiring immediate medical attention.
  • Osteosarcoma: A type of bone cancer commonly seen in large breeds, leading to lameness and severe pain.
  • Lymphoma: A type of cancer that originates in the lymph nodes and typically spreads to other organs.
  • Entropion & Ectropion: Eyelid abnormalities that can cause irritation, infection or vision problems.
  • Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM): A heart condition that weakens the heart muscle leading to fatigue and difficulty in breathing.
  • Epilepsy: A neurological disorder causing recurring seizures.
  • Wobbler Syndrome: A spinal condition affecting the neck leading to unsteady movement and weakness.
  • Hypothyroidism: A hormonal disorder that can cause weight gain, lethargy and skin issues.
  • Ear Infections: Their large, floppy ears trap moisture, making them prone to infections.
  • Heat Sensitivity: Due to their thick coat, Saint Bernards struggle in hot weather and are at risk of heatstroke.
  • Arthritis: Joint inflammation is common in older Saint Bernards. It affects their mobility and comfort.
  • Cataracts: Clouding of the eye lens, leading to vision impairment or blindness.
  • Obesity: Excess weight puts additional strain on joints and increases the risk of other health problems.


Important Note: This information is for general guidance only. Always consult a qualified veterinarian for personalized advice.

 

Vaccination details

Growth Stage

Core Vaccines

6 - 8 weeks

DHLPP, Bordetella

10 - 12 weeks

DHLPP, Bordetella, Rabies

14 - 16 weeks

DHLPP, Bordetella, Rabies

18-20 weeks

DHLPP, Bordetella, Rabies

1 year

DHLPP, Bordetella, Rabies

Recommendations to care for senior Saint Bernard dogs

A Saint Bernard is considered a senior around 7 years of age. Routine veterinary checkups like blood tests and mobility assessments are needed to monitor health issues.


Speak to your vet to understand the best diet to feed your senior Saint Bernards. Gentle exercise like short walks and light play helps maintain mobility without straining their joints. Avoid strenuous running or jumping. Use orthopedic beds and ramps to provide extra support for aging joints.

Regular grooming is essential including frequent brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Routine dental care, daily brushing and professional cleanings help in keeping periodontal disease at bay.


The RSPCA provides helpful guidelines to ensure optimal care for senior dogs.


Important Note: This information is for general guidance only. Always consult a qualified veterinarian for personalized advice.

 
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Grooming

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹ 1,200 - ₹ 1,800

Shedding Level

High Shedding

Hygienic Checklist

Bathing

Brushing

Ear Cleaning

Eye Care

Teeth Care

Nail Trimming

Benefits of Grooming

Cleanliness

Prevents infections

Odourless

Quality of life

Low Shedding

Prevents Bad Breath

  • Saint Bernards have a thick, double coat that requires regular brushing 3–4 times a week to minimize shedding and prevent matting. More frequent grooming is needed during shedding seasons, according to the Saint Bernard Club of America.
  • Bathing every 6–8 weeks helps keep their coat clean but don’t over-bathe as it can strip natural oils. Use mild, breed-appropriate shampoos to protect their skin.
  • Due to their floppy ears, Saint Bernards are prone to ear infections. Regular ear cleaning with a vet-approved solution is a must.
  • Nail trimming every 2–3 weeks is essential to maintain proper paw health and prevent discomfort while walking. 
  • They are often affectionately called drool machines as they drool a lot. Keeping the area around their mouth clean is a must.
 
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Adopt or Shop: The choice is yours!

Cost of buying

₹ 25,000 - ₹ 50,000

If You Want a Saint Bernard for Your Home, You Have Two Basic Options: Buying or Adopting


Buying:

When buying a Saint Bernard, it’s crucial to select a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. 

Ensure the breeder follows ethical breeding practices, provides proper health screenings, and offers documentation like health certificates and lineage papers.


Check the living conditions and avoid breeders with signs of neglect or unethical breeding. The cost of a Saint Bernard puppy varies based on factors like pedigree, coat type, and breeder reputation.


Adopt:

Adopting a Saint Bernard is a great choice. Many breed-specific rescues, shelters, and animal welfare groups have Saint Bernards in need of loving homes.


Adoption fees generally include vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and basic medical care, making it a more affordable option than buying from a breeder.


Here are Some Breeds Similar to Saint Bernard:


Newfoundland | Great Pyrenees | Bernese Mountain Dog | Pyrenean Mastiff

 

Prerequisites to pet a Saint Bernard

Access to Groomer

Space and Environment

Financial Capability

Access to Veterinary

Appropriate Climate

Lifestyle Compatibility

Saint Bernard breeders in India

Nivesh Gowda

Nivesh Gowda

Southdale Pet Hub

Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu

2 Puppies
Ranjith Ganeshmurthy

Ranjith Ganeshmurthy

Gentlegiants

Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu

Listing Soon

Gowtham D

Gowtham D

Sparkle kennel

Bengaluru, Karnataka

Listing Soon

Now that you know what it takes to raise a Saint Bernard, are you ready to take the next step to pet one?

Research: Do thorough research about the Saint Bernard breed, including its size, exercise needs, temperament, health concerns, and compatibility with your lifestyle. Ensure a Saint Bernard is the right fit for your home considering their large size and care requirements.


Find Reputable Sources: Before buying a Saint Bernard puppy, choose a responsible breeder who follows ethical breeding practices. If you’re considering adoption, check local shelters or breed-specific rescues for available dogs.


Visit Breeder/Adoption Centers: Plan a visit to the kennel or adoption center to assess the Saint Bernard’s health, behavior and living conditions. Ask about their vaccination history, medical background, and temperament.


Ask for Documentation: Request health certificates, vaccination records and pedigree documents if buying from a breeder. For adoption, inquire about past medical history and behavioral assessments.


Prepare Your Home: Saint Bernards need ample space due to their large size. Ensure you have the necessary supplies, such as a comfortable bed, large food and water bowls, grooming tools, and sturdy toys. Be prepared for the time, space, and commitment needed to care for this gentle giant.

 

Compare with similar breeds

Bully Kutta_breed

Bully Kutta

Great Dane_breed

Great Dane

Tibetan Mastiff_breed

Tibetan Mastiff

French Mastiff_breed

French Mastiff

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the place of origin of the Saint Bernard breed?

The Saint Bernard breed originates in the Swiss Alps, where they were historically utilized as rescue dogs to find stranded tourists in the snow.

How do I deal with their drooling?

Due to their jowly nature, Saint Bernards are infamous for drooling. Drool can be controlled by keeping a towel nearby and regularly cleaning their mouth. Make sure they have access to clean water in order to stay hydrated.

Can Saint Bernards be left alone for extended periods of time?

Saint Bernards rely on interaction with humans and might develop separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods of time. Avoid leaving them alone for long periods of time, and provide interactive toys to keep their minds engaged.

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