1. Grooming & Coat Care

Saint Bernards come in short-haired and long-haired varieties, both of which require regular grooming.

Brushing

• Long-haired Saint Bernards need brushing 3–4 times per week to prevent tangles and matting.
• Short-haired Saint Bernards should be brushed 1–2 times per week to remove loose fur.
• Use a de-shedding brush during shedding seasons (spring and fall) to minimize excessive hair around your home.

Bathing

• Bathe your Saint Bernard once every 6–8 weeks or when they get dirty.
• Use a mild dog shampoo to protect their skin and coat.
• Always dry them thoroughly, as their thick fur can trap moisture and lead to skin infections.

Ear & Eye Care

• Check ears weekly for dirt buildup and signs of infection; clean them with a vet-approved ear cleaner.
• Their droopy eyes may collect dirt, so wipe them with a damp cloth as needed to prevent irritation.

Nail Trimming

• Trim nails every 3–4 weeks to prevent discomfort and mobility issues.

2. Exercise & Activity Needs

Saint Bernards are not high-energy dogs but still require regular activity to stay fit and healthy.

Daily Exercise

• A 30–45 minute walk each day is ideal.
• Avoid excessive running or intense activity, especially while they are growing, to protect their joints.
• Playtime in a fenced yard or open space helps them stay active and happy.

Weather Considerations

• Saint Bernards are sensitive to hot weather; avoid exercise during peak heat hours and ensure they always have shade and fresh water.
• In winter, they thrive but still need moderate exercise to prevent obesity.

3. Feeding & Nutrition

Due to their large size, Saint Bernards have specific dietary needs to support their growth and health.

Diet Recommendations

• High-quality large-breed dog food with a balance of proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.
• Puppies (up to 2 years old) should eat large-breed puppy food to support their slow and steady growth.
• Adults should have 2–3 meals per day to prevent bloating and digestive issues.

Common Feeding Concerns

• Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus, GDV): A serious condition that can occur in deep-chested breeds. To minimize the risk:
  • Feed smaller meals instead of one large meal.
  • Avoid exercise right after eating.
  • Use a slow feeder bowl if they eat too quickly.

4. Training & Socialization

Saint Bernards are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with patience and consistency.

Early Socialization

• Expose them to new people, pets, and environments at a young age.
• Positive experiences help prevent shyness or fearfulness as they grow.

Basic Training

• Start with basic commands like sit, stay, come, and heel early on.
• Use positive reinforcement (treats, praise) to encourage good behavior.
• Leash training is important due to their large size—teach them to walk calmly without pulling.

House Training

• Due to their intelligence, Saint Bernards learn quickly but require patience.
• Crate training can be effective for potty training and creating a safe space.

5. Health & Vet Care

Saint Bernards are generally healthy dogs but are prone to some breed-specific health concerns.

Common Health Issues

• Hip & Elbow Dysplasia: Common in large breeds; keep them at a healthy weight and provide joint supplements if needed.
• Bloat (GDV): As mentioned earlier, avoid large meals and excessive activity after eating.
• Heart Conditions: Regular vet check-ups help detect any early signs.
• Eye Issues: Saint Bernards may develop entropion (inward-rolling eyelids) or ectropion (outward-rolling eyelids).

Regular Vet Visits

• Schedule annual check-ups for vaccinations and overall health assessments.
• Maintain a proper deworming and flea/tick prevention schedule.

6. Living Environment

Saint Bernards are best suited for homes with ample space due to their size.

Best Home Setups

✔ Large homes with a fenced yard
✔ Families who can provide attention and companionship
✔ Homes with cool, shaded areas during hot months

Apartment Living?

Saint Bernards can adapt to apartment living if given regular walks and space to stretch out. However, they are not ideal for small spaces due to their size and potential drooling.