Gentle and Affectionate

Saint Bernards are known for their calm and loving nature, making them excellent family pets.

Good with Children

Often referred to as "nanny dogs," they are patient and protective of children.

Loyal and Devoted

They form strong bonds with their families and are incredibly loyal.

Adaptable Energy Levels

While they enjoy outdoor activities, they are also content lounging at home.

Large Size

Their giant size can be challenging in smaller homes or with inexperienced owners.

Heavy Shedding and Drooling

Saint Bernards shed heavily and are prone to drooling, which can require extra maintenance.

Short Lifespan

Like many giant breeds, Saint Bernards have a relatively short lifespan, typically around 8-10 years.

Prone to Health Issues

They can be susceptible to various health conditions, including joint problems and heart disease.

Exercise Needs

Saint Bernards require moderate exercise to stay healthy and prevent obesity. They enjoy walks and outdoor play but are not as high-energy as some other large breeds.

Walks

Saint Bernards benefit from one or two moderate walks per day, along with some playtime. Care should be taken not to over-exercise them, especially during their growth phase, to avoid stressing their joints.

Training

Saint Bernards are intelligent and eager to please but can be stubborn. Early obedience training is crucial, and positive reinforcement methods work best. Consistency and patience are key, as they may take time to learn commands due to their independent nature.

Purchase Price

$3,500 - $6,000 AUD depending on breeder and lineage.

Initial Setup

Around $400 - $600 AUD. (crate, bed, toys, etc.)

Food

Approximately $600 - $1,000 AUD per year, depending on dietary needs.

Grooming

Professional grooming every few months can cost around $400 - $800 AUD per year. Regular at-home brushing is essential to manage shedding.

Vet Bills

Initial vaccinations, microchipping, and desexing can cost around $600 - $1,200 AUD. Ongoing annual check-ups and preventive care could cost $1,000 - $1,500 AUD per year, with additional expenses for managing joint or heart issues.

Total Lifetime Cost

Over an 8-10 year lifespan, the total cost of ownership can range from $30,000 - $50,000 AUD, depending on health and lifestyle factors.

Size and Weight

Saint Bernards are one of the largest dog breeds, typically standing 65-90 cm (25-35 inches) tall and weighing between 50-90 kg (110-200 lbs), with males being larger than females.

Coat

They have a dense double coat that can be short or long. Both coat types shed heavily, especially during seasonal changes. Regular brushing helps manage shedding and keeps their coat healthy.

Colour Options

 Saint Bernards are usually white with red, orange, or brindle markings. Their coats often feature distinct facial masks.

Temperament

Saint Bernards are known for their gentle, calm, and affectionate temperament. They are loyal and devoted to their families and are especially good with children. Despite their large size, they are not aggressive and are usually friendly with strangers. Saint Bernards are intelligent but can be a bit stubborn, requiring consistent training and leadership.

Good with Children

Saint Bernards are excellent with children due to their patient and protective nature. They are gentle and tolerant, though supervision is recommended around very young children due to their large size.

Socialization

Early socialization is essential to ensure Saint Bernards are well-adjusted and comfortable around new people, pets, and environments. Proper socialization helps reduce the risk of shyness or over-protectiveness.

Indoors vs. Outdoors

Saint Bernards prefer to live indoors with their families but need regular outdoor time for exercise. They are not suited for full-time outdoor living due to their need for companionship and sensitivity to extreme weather.

Apartment Living

Due to their size, Saint Bernards are not ideal for apartment living. They are better suited to homes with large yards or access to outdoor spaces.

Time Alone

Saint Bernards do not like being left alone for long periods. They are social dogs that thrive on companionship and may become bored or anxious if isolated for extended periods. They are best suited for homes where someone is present for most of the day.

Climate Adaptability

Saint Bernards are more comfortable in cooler climates due to their thick coat. In warmer regions, it’s important to provide plenty of water, shade, and avoid exercising them during the hottest parts of the day. Air conditioning or cooling mats can help them stay comfortable in hot weather.

Common Health Issues

Saint Bernards are prone to certain health conditions, including Hip and elbow dysplasia, Bloat (gastric torsion), heart disease and Osteosarcoma (bone cancer). Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and controlled exercise are essential for maintaining their health.

Ethical Breeding Considerations

Due to their predisposition to certain genetic conditions, it is important to purchase from a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings. Ethical breeding practices help reduce the risk of hereditary health problems and ensure the well-being of the puppies.

Guarding Ability

Saint Bernards are not aggressive but may bark to alert their owners of strangers. Their size alone can act as a deterrent to intruders.

Affectionate Nature

Saint Bernards are loving and enjoy spending time with their families. They are known for their calm and patient demeanor, making them excellent companions.

Suitability for Dog Parks

Saint Bernards are generally social with other dogs but may need supervision in dog parks due to their size and potential to unintentionally overwhelm smaller dogs. Early socialization ensures positive interactions.