The St. Bernard. The national dog of Switzerland and a breed that has become popular around the world due to their affectionate and placid nature. But how long do these gentle giants live and do they make good pets?

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As with many giant breeds, the life of a St. Bernard is typically shorter than that of smaller dogs, with an average of 8-10 years in most cases. Their size and appearance may make them more prone to certain health issues. But when it comes to their nature, the St Bernard can be hard to fault as a family pet. 

Health considerations

Many of the health considerations for a St Bernards relate to their size and relatively loose skin, particularly around the face. 

Entropion 

This is a condition where excessive skin around the eye causes the eyelids to roll inwards, allowing hairs to rub on the surface of the eye itself. This causes intense pain and may lead to ulceration of the cornea (surface of the eye). While this ulceration may be treated medically if caught early, the condition will likely recur unless surgery is carried out to correct the entropion and prevent further rolling in of the eyelids. This condition is usually bilateral i.e. affecting both eyes.

Like many other large breeds, St Bernards may be affected by bloat and GDV 

GDV (Gastric Dilatation Volvulus) is a condition where the stomach fills with gas, food or fluid and twists around on itself. This condition can quickly be fatal. So as an owner it is important to know the signs to watch out for. Feeding two small meals a day rather than one large one, and not exercising close to feeding time will also reduce the risk of this condition developing. 

Hip and Elbow dysplasia are common conditions in the St Bernard breed

Fortunately screening of the parent dogs before breeding can significantly reduce the likelihood of this condition occurring. And all responsible breeders will be doing this before planning a litter of puppies. 

Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD) and cruciate ligament disease 

Primarily affecting the elbow and stifle (knee) joints respectively, these may be seen more frequently in St Bernards than in many other breeds. Careful attention to diet and exercise will help to reduce the risks and manage these conditions more effectively. But the large breed size does make treatment more of a challenge, and potentially more costly.

Heart disease

Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is seen relatively more frequently in St. Bernards than most other breeds. Causing the heart muscle to pump insufficiently, if detected early this condition can often be well managed medically but this may be costly especially in such large dogs. And DCM can ultimately lead to heart failure.

Sadly St. Bernards may be predisposed to developing Osteosarcoma

This aggressive bone cancer usually affects the leg bones. And it can prove difficult to treat as it may well have spread to other areas of the body before being detected. 

Heat problems

And finally, while their thick warm coat may be perfectly suited to the snowy Swiss Alps, on a hot (or even warm) day in the UK, St Bernards are very susceptible to heat stress. Careful thought must be given to providing a cool environment, access to fresh water and well-timed and appropriate levels of exercise when the weather is warmer. 

So, always make sure you are registered with a vet in case of problems!

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Personality

Described by the Kennel Club as “Steady, kindly, intelligent, courageous, trustworthy and benevolent”, the St Bernard really is a gentle giant. Never happier than when fully involved in family life, these dogs are people pleasers; generally calm but intelligent. And as such need sufficient exercise, mental challenge and social interaction to avoid boredom.

Care

So gentle for sure but also giant. Growing to around 65-75cm (about 2.4 ft) in height and between 55kg and 85kg in weight, consideration must be given to accommodating these giants at home, in terms of transport, around small children or those not used to large dogs, and in terms of ongoing costs such as feed, healthcare, insurance, equipment etc. 

Good socialisation from an early age along with consistent, positive and ongoing training will pay off with this breed; who aim to please but may not always be aware of their own size and enthusiasm relative to those around them.

Rough or smooth coated, the St. Bernard is a breed which sheds hair. And due to the excessive skin around their face and a tendency to drool. Owners should expect to commit to a grooming routine in order to keep their dogs coat healthy and to prevent any infection forming in skin folds. 

As they are not fully grown until between 2 and 3 years of age, a well-formulated diet and appropriate exercise routine is important in young dogs. This is in order to support healthy growth and particularly bone development. Ensuring adults are also kept slim and fit will help to prevent or best manage any health issues, particularly those relating to joint disease.

Taking on a St Bernard

So, if your household has the space for a gentle giant who is friendly, kind and loyal, how would you go about finding a St Bernard to fit the bill? I would suggest starting with the Kennel Club website to help you consider all that taking on any new dog involves. 

If you think a puppy is for you then check the Kennel Club register. Or with the breed society to find a reputable breeder who will have health screened the parent dogs and should be happy for you to visit and ask questions before you make a final decision. And please don’t forget that dogs of all ages, shapes and sizes can find themselves looking for new homes through circumstance rather than any fault of their own or of their previous owners. Breed specific rescue and rehoming charities exist such as the St. Bernard Trust, and these organisations can often provide some background information on dogs looking for new homes. As well as help to answer breed related questions. And match you with the best individual for your family to love.

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