15 Things to Know Before Getting a Saint Bernard
You love the gentle-giant vibe and those soulful eyes — we get it.
Before you bring home a Saint Bernard, there are a few real-world truths that make life easier for you and happier for them.
Here are the 15 things we wish every new Saint owner knew on day one.
1. They Are Truly Giant
Adult Saints commonly weigh 120–180 pounds, with some males topping that.
This is furniture-moving size; doorways, cars, and even vet scales have to accommodate them.
Think through stairs, narrow hallways, and whether you can physically help a sick or elderly Saint.
2. Drool Is a Daily Accessory
Those jowls are adorable — and they sling strings.
Expect daily drool on floors, walls, and sleeves, especially after drinking, eating, or getting excited.
3. Exercise Needs Are Moderate But Consistent
They are not marathoners, but they do need steady, low-impact movement.
Plan for two 20–30 minute walks plus casual play or sniffaris. Over-exercising growing pups risks joint issues.
4. Heat Sensitivity Is Real
Saints overheat faster than many breeds.
They thrive in cool weather but struggle in warm, humid climates. Walk at dawn/dusk, provide shade, and always carry water.
5. Grooming: More Fur Than You Think
Saints come in short and long coats; both shed and both need upkeep.
Brush a few times a week (daily during coat blows), clean the drool folds, and expect regular nail trims and ear checks.
Weekly
Brush, wipe facial folds, quick ear check.
Monthly
Bath as needed, thorough de-shed, trim feet feathers (long-coat).
6. Early Training Matters (Because They Get Huge)
A 20-pound puppy jumping up is cute; a 150-pound adult doing it is dangerous.
Focus on polite greetings, loose-leash walking, and reliable recall. Keep sessions short, positive, and consistent.
Foundations to teach early
- Four-on-the-floorReward sitting to greet; never reinforce jumping.
- Leash mannersHarness plus high-value treats; reward beside-you walking.
- Settle on a matGives your Saint an off-switch during guests and meals.
7. Temperament: Gentle, Social, and Sensitive
They’re famously sweet and people-oriented.
Saints read your tone closely — harsh methods backfire. Use gentle guidance and clear boundaries.
8. Space and Flooring Considerations
They sprawl. A Saint fits best in homes with room to stretch and turn.
Slick floors can be tough on joints. Consider runners or rugs where they walk and sleep.
9. Budget for Big-Dog Costs
Everything scales up: food, preventives, meds, crates, beds, even surgery and imaging.
Annual Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Quality large-breed food | $900–$1,500/yr |
| Preventives (flea/tick/heartworm) | $300–$600/yr |
| Grooming supplies/baths | $150–$400/yr |
| Routine vet care | $300–$600/yr |
| Insurance (optional) | $600–$1,200/yr |
| Est. Annual Total | $2,250–$4,300+/yr |
10. Big-Dog Health Watchouts
Common concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat (GDV), heart conditions, and eye/eyelid issues.
Feed a large-breed puppy formula, grow them slow, and talk to your vet about a prophylactic gastropexy to reduce GDV risk.
They are low-to-moderate energy, but big-dog orthopedic and gastric risks make proactive care essential.
Both coat types shed; maintenance differs but volume of fur is similar over a year.
11. Great With Kids, Supervision Still Required
They’re usually patient family dogs.
Because of size, teach kids to give space around bowls and beds, and train your Saint to move on cue to avoid accidental knockdowns.
12. Travel and Transport Are Logistical
They don’t fit in every vehicle or under every cafe table.
Measure your car’s cargo height and depth, invest in a strong ramp, and practice loading while they’re young.
13. Seasonal Shedding Is No Joke
Spring and fall coat blows can feel like a snow globe of fur.
A de-shedding tool, high-quality vacuum, and regular brushing keep tumbleweeds in check.
Two more realities that matter long-term
14. Lifespan and Heart Investment
Saints typically live around 8–10 years.
That can feel short, but their devotion is enormous. Make the middle years shine with smart weight management and joint care.
15. Is a Saint Bernard the Right Fit?
If you love a shadow who adores your family, don’t mind drool and fur, and can manage a giant’s needs, a Saint is joy.
If space, heat, or budget are tight, press pause — there are gentler fits.
Yes for committed owners with space and time for training and grooming. Their size raises the stakes, so take a class early and set routines.
Adult intake varies by size and activity, often 4–6 cups of quality kibble split into two meals; follow your vet’s guidance and keep them lean.
Generally moderate barkers. They have a big voice and may alert at visitors; training a quiet cue helps.
It’s possible with elevators, good flooring, and diligent exercise, but tight spaces and stairs are challenging.
They reach near adult height by 12–15 months but continue filling out until about 2 years.
