Even if you groom your Saint religiously, be prepared for a significant amount of shedding. If you’re a stickler for domestic cleanliness and order, a Saint is probably not the best breed for you, as they’re naturally seasonal shedders that can slough whole bags of fur in a single day. There are short-haired Saints as well as the more famous long-haired ones, but even the short-haired Saints will shed and require regular grooming. [2] X Research source
Be sure to rinse and dry your Saint thoroughly after your bath, as leaving any shampoo or damp spots can cause matting and irritation on the skin. You can towel dry as well as use a blow dryer.
There have been some recent developments in canine plastic surgery which make it possible to surgically reduce your dog’s salivation, but you probably shouldn’t consider this to be viable option for this innate slobberer. [3] X Research source
You can mix some wet food into your dog’s kibble if they like it, but don’t rely on this moist variety too much. Compared to dry food, it contains little nutrition, especially when you consider its relatively high price.
When your Saint Bernard is still a puppy (up to 18 months), you should feed it three times a day, but in adulthood you can cut down to two meals a day. Always let your Saint Bernard rest after eating, ideally for several hours. Exercise on a full stomach may increase the risk of bloat (GDV), a potentially lethal condition.
You should also start socializing at a very young age. Take your new pup to the dog park and introduce it to all your friends and family in order to make them easygoing and friendly. [6] X Research source
Keeping your voice calm and measured will help you communicate clearly with your Saint Bernard, rather than confusing and frightening it with your fluctuating verbal cues. Just because you keep a level head and avoid punishing your dog, doesn’t mean that you should be a pushover. Your Saint wants to obey you, but you have to show that you’re the leader of the pack. Stand erect with your shoulders back and speak in a firm voice in order to establish your status. [7] X Research source
When your Saint does something naughty, think about your response as a correction and not as a punitive measure. A quick collar shake and calm “no” should stop the behavior in its tracks without spooking your dog and disrupting the trust developing between you. [9] X Research source Consider registering for obedience classes if you feel overwhelmed at the prospect of training your Saint Bernard. You won’t walk away with a K-9 unit pro or a circus dog, but you should notice a pronounced improvement in your dog’s behavior after a six- to eight-week course.
If you’re unfamiliar with these activities, you can get involved in them through a local club, such as the Saint Bernard Club of America, the American Kennel Club, or a training school.
Unlike other large breeds, Saint Bernards don’t require lots of outdoor space in which to run around and play. They’ll enjoy a stroll and a sniff around, but they’re more likely to use your backyard real estate for a nap in the sun than a jog round the perimeter. [12] X Research source Saint Bernards are prone to heatstroke and exhaustion, so make sure you don’t overexert them. If you’re wanting a running buddy to train for your next 5k, you should look to another breed. [13] X Research source
When you absolutely must leave your dog alone, supply it with plenty of rubber chew toys. Otherwise, they’ll improvise and find something like a sock, shoe, or couch cushion to distract themselves. [15] X Research source
Most dogs can be assessed visually by checking for a waistline and slightly visible ribs, but a Saint Bernard’s heavy coat can make this difficult. Rely instead on your scale and the vet’s evaluation. Even if you’re feeding your Saint the appropriate portions, your dog can put on weight if you give it too many treats. Remember that treats can be quite calorific, especially when they add up. [17] X Research source
Entropion and ectropion—a condition where the dog’s eyelids roll inward or outward—are the most common eye problems for Saint Bernards. It’s a treatable condition, but make sure to nip it in the bud as, left untreated, it can cause eventual blindness.
Don’t let your dog eat or drink large amounts in one sitting. Divide its daily food into two or three meals. Never add water to dry food. Avoid foods that list fat or oil as one of the first four ingredients. Place the food bowl directly on the floor, not raised above ground level. If your dog eats quickly, force it to slow down with a specially designed bowl or by placing a large rock in the center of the food. Avoid exercising the dog for several hours after eating. Watch for a bloated stomach and other symptoms of GDV. If they occur, bring the dog to emergency vet care. GDV can be fatal, so do not delay.
Hip dysplasia treatments can be pricey, particularly if you opt for a surgical resolution, so you might want to consider purchasing health insurance for your Saint. Ask your vet if they have any recommendations for insurance and explore your options online.
