Saint Bernards are one of the largest dog breeds — males commonly reach 65–90 kg — and are among the gentlest. They were developed at the Great St Bernard Pass in the Alps as rescue dogs, and they retain that same calm, patient, measured temperament. They drool generously, shed substantially, and require significant health vigilance given their size.
Bloat: The Giant Breed Emergency
At this chest depth and size, Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus is a major risk. Feed twice daily in smaller portions. Slow feeder bowl. No exercise for 90 minutes before or after meals. Know the emergency signs: unproductive retching, visibly swollen abdomen, rapid deterioration. Prophylactic gastropexy at the time of neutering is worth a serious conversation with your vet. A Saint Bernard developing GDV in a rural area far from emergency care has a very poor prognosis — prevention matters here more than in smaller breeds.
Heat Sensitivity
Saint Bernards were bred for cold Alpine environments. They do not tolerate heat well at all. In summer: walks in early morning or late evening only. Fresh water available constantly. Never in a warm car for any duration. The combination of large body mass and (in long-coat varieties) heavy double coat means they overheat quickly and cannot dissipate heat efficiently. Know heatstroke signs: excessive panting, thick ropey saliva, disorientation, collapse.
Common Health Conditions
- Hip and elbow dysplasia: Extremely common at this size. OFA/BVA scores from both parents. Keep weight lean throughout life — every extra kilogram accelerates joint deterioration dramatically.
- Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM): Giant breeds have elevated risk. Annual cardiac auscultation from age 3.
- Osteosarcoma: Bone cancer incidence increases with body size. Unexplained lameness, swelling near a joint → prompt radiograph.
- Eye conditions: Ectropion and entropion are common in this breed. Annual eye checks.
Puppyhood: Slow Growth Is Non-Negotiable
Giant breed puppy food only — never standard puppy food. The growth rate of a Saint Bernard is extraordinary; incorrect calcium and phosphorus levels during growth cause skeletal problems that will affect the dog for life. No high-impact exercise before 18-24 months. No stairs repeatedly. No jumping from heights. Let the skeleton develop at the rate it should.
Saint Bernard Care Summary
- GDV prevention: twice-daily feeding, slow feeder, no exercise around meals.
- No exercise in heat — morning and evening only in summer.
- Giant breed puppy food; no high-impact before 18-24 months.
- OFA/BVA hip and elbow scores from both parents.
- Annual cardiac check from age 3.
Track your Saint Bernard's health calendar, vaccine reminders, and weight on the Woofio Saint Bernard care page.