Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd Mix: Info, Pictures & Facts

Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd mix side profile
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The Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd mix is a gentle and loving dog produced from two magnificent parent breeds. Their unique appearance and traits make them an excellent choice for families.

With the strong herding background of Australian Shepherds and the characteristic of Saint Bernards as rescue dogs, this mix makes for a very intelligent and trainable companion.

Do you want to know more about this mix? Keep on reading to learn more about Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd dogs.

Breed Overview

Height:20 – 30 inches
Weight:50 – 65 pounds
Lifespan:8 – 10 years
Coat Colors:Black, brown, sable, pied, black and tan, red and black
Temperament:Friendly, loyal, energetic, obedient, playful
Suitable for:Families with children; being a watchdog

What Is a Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd Mix?

Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd mix tongue out
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The Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd mix is the result of crossing an Australian Shepherd and a Saint Bernard. St. Bernard Aussie mixes are clever, agile, and affectionate dogs. They are quite large and active, making them excellent companions for people with fenced backyards or active lifestyles. 

You might get intimidated by this mix because they are large dogs that are full of energy. However, once you get to know them, you’ll realize that they are as trainable as they are adorable.

Saint Bernard Aussie dogs are less popular than other purebred Shepherd dogs, but breeders see great potential in this hybrid due to their unique appearance and great personality traits.

This crossbreed is a fluffy bundle of energy that can match the energies of individuals and families who love going out and about.

Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd Mix Origin and History

It is always challenging to understand the history of crossbreed dogs like the Saint Bernard Aussie Shepherd mix. That’s why it is important to know about their parents’ roots to understand this hybrid better.

For starters, Australian Shepherds were first developed in California in the 19th century by breeding Collies imported from Australia. However, their roots are traced back to Spain, where similar herding dogs existed.

On the other hand, St. Bernard dogs are old breeds that descended from the French Alps. They usually belonged to farmers and dairymen who referred to them as Alpine Mountain Dog or Alpine Cattle Dog.

The earliest written record of this dog breed came from monks that lived at the Great St. Bernard Pass in 1707. However, paintings that suggest this breed dates back earlier than that.

Both Saint Bernard and Australian Shepherd dogs have a strong herding history. With this, it can easily be speculated that early breeders crossed them together to create stronger herding dogs.

Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd Mix Appearance

Australian Shepherd Saint Bernard mix with bandana
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Both St. Bernard and Australian Shepherds have furry coats, but they have quite a wide size and height difference. With this, you might be curious about their appearance.

Due to their Saint Bernard ancestry, this crossbreed tends to be big and muscular canines. They occasionally exhibit traits similar to Australian Shepherds despite being slimmer.

Most people imagine this hybrid to be noticeably smaller and a bit more athletic than a Saint Bernard. However, it usually depends on how genetics plays out.

Most of them have red and white streaks in differing quantities and places throughout their thick coats. 

Meanwhile, some St. Bernard Aussie Shepherd mixes have light brown markings on a scruffy white coat, just like some St. Bernard dogs.

Some of the possible coat colors of this mix include tri-color, red merle, and blue merle. Other dogs can even sport a short coat.

Each dog in the litter will definitely have unique traits, which make them more special and uniquely diverse!

Watch this video to get a glimpse of what a Saint Bernard Aussie Shepherd mix looks like:

Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd Mix Size and Weight

Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd mix dogs are usually large dogs that weigh between 50 and 65 pounds and measure around 20 to 30 inches tall once fully grown.

However, these measurements may still vary based on how genetics play out. Simply, if their Australian Shepherd parent’s gene is dominant, they are expected to be smaller.

In general, though, these dogs are smaller than their St. Bernard parent, making them easier to care for and carry around.

Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd Mix Temperament and Personality

Australian Shepherd Saint Bernard mix attending an event
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Unlike other ferocious guard dogs, this crossbreed dog is incredibly sweet and affectionate towards children and even other dogs.

However, although they may be easy to get along with people they usually see, they are still very aloof with strangers and may need to warm up to them first.

Since both their parents are lovely, kind, and friendly, these mixed-breed dogs exhibit these traits as well. They have a great attitude and are extremely motivated to act their best at all times.

They love playing games of fetch or tug of war, which makes them best suited for families who love playing outdoor games and other fun activities.

This mix is also highly intelligent, a characteristic that allows them to be excellent working dogs. They are also brave, loyal, and protective. 

They love following their favorite person around and protecting them when needed. Another great thing about this mix is that they are calm and very appreciative of attention but not as demanding as other designer breeds.

All in all, these dogs can grow to become highly devoted and loyal pets when trained properly.

Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd Mix Lifespan and Health Issues

Generally, a Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd mix usually lives between 8 and 10 years like their Saint Bernard parent. 

However, all dogs may potentially develop genetic health problems, and some designer dogs are more susceptible to these problems than others.

Before deciding to buy or adopt a puppy, it is important to know the health issues that may affect your dog in the future.

Listed below are some of the common health problems for Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd mixes:

  • Eye Degeneration and Other Eye Issues: As your St. Bernard Shepherd mix ages, it may have issues with its eyesight. Canine cataracts are one of the most common eye conditions in dogs. Drops may help your dog’s condition, but if it worsens, it can eventually lead to blindness.
  • Von Willebrand Disease: This refers to a blood disorder where the Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd mix’s blood does not properly clot. Von Willebrand Disease is usually an inherited abnormal gene that controls a protein that contributes to the clotting of blood, the Von Willebrand factor.
  • Hypothyroidism: Dogs may suffer from an underactive thyroid condition, an endocrine disorder more common in dogs than in other species. It causes the Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd mix’s bodily functions to slow down, and they may also experience lethargy, weight gain, and coat or skin changes.

Before buying a St. Bernard Australian Shepherd mix dog, it is important to choose a breeder that provides health screening certificates. This allows you to know about your dog’s breed-specific health issues.

Regular health screening is also important. This allows you to maintain your dog’s overall well-being and avoid risks of developing health issues over time.

Ultimately, one can never be too certain of a dog’s health, so you must get your pet health insurance just in case things do not go as planned. 

How to Take Care of Your Australian Shepherd Saint Bernard Mix

Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd mix lying on the grass
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Before adopting a designer breed, especially a St. Bernard Australian Shepherd mix, it is essential that you know how to meet their needs first.

Fortunately, this in-depth guide has everything you need to know about how to take care of a St. Bernard Australian Shepherd mix. Read along to find out more.

Food and Diet

A St. Bernard Australian Shepherd mix requires a diet rich in Omega-3, proteins, essential fats, and carbohydrates to help prevent joint issues. If you feed them commercial kibble, it may require 4 to 8 cups of food daily.

Like other large designer breeds, this mix also needs a diet that will help promote good eyesight, muscle growth, and excellent skin health.

Some vets may recommend food supplements, too. These dogs don’t usually need these when they’re young, but it will be very beneficial when they become seniors.

They also enjoy raw food, so it is also important to include this in their meals instead of giving them extra treats.

Cleaning and Grooming

This mix usually has long, shaggy coats like its Australian Shepherd parent, which means they shed more than short-coated dogs. This requires regular brushing at least three times a week.

However, they tend to have sensitive skin, so only give them baths when needed and be careful to avoid drying out their skin. Ideally, they should only be bathed once or twice a month.

If they get mud over their paws and tails, giving them a quick rinse from your garden hose should suffice.

You should trim your dog’s nails every two to three weeks with a sharp nail trimmer to prevent the nail from separating from the quick.

Generally, this crossbreed dog has healthy teeth due to its parent breed’s genetics. Thus, brushing their teeth at least thrice a week would be enough to keep them strong and healthy.

Training and Exercise

Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd mixes are intelligent dogs. They are quick to learn but tend to reject new tricks. They can also be quite stubborn.

Luckily, St. Bernard Aussies respond well to positive reinforcement. So, remember to praise them and give them a treat whenever they learn a new trick.

It is also best to start training early because they grow into large dogs. Teaching them early during puppyhood would allow you to manage them with less effort.

These dogs also require proper socialization. They need to get used to interacting with people and other dogs to develop confidence. Taking them to the park or dog daycare centers would benefit them.

St. Bernard Australian Shepherd mix dogs need at least two hours of physical activity per day to stay healthy and energetic. The more activities they do, the less they act agitated and destructive.

Their exercise may include interactive play, solving puzzles, running around the park, playing with toys, and walking or hiking. The more stimulated their body and brain are, the healthier they will be.

How Much Does a Saint Bernard Aussie Mix Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses

The price for a St. Bernard Australian Shepherd mix puppy ranges between $1,500 and $2,500. The parent breed’s ancestry, coat color, unique markings, and the breeder’s reputation affect their final price.

However, these dogs can also be adopted from local rescue or adoption centers. This is cheaper because adoption fees usually only range from $50 to $350.

As expected, getting a new dog comes with other expenses. You need to plan your finances for dog food, beds, grooming supplies, vet visits, and other necessities.

The table below summarizes the initial expenses of a St. Bernard Australian Shepherd mix:

Type of ExpenseCost
Food and Treats$80 – $150
Bowls$15 – $40
Toys$30 – $100
Beds$50 – $300
Collars and Leashes$15 – $50
Crates and Carriers$60 – $500
Grooming Essentials$50 – $250
Initial Vet Visits$100 – $500
Initial Vaccine Shots$50 – $300
Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications$40 – $300
Neutering or Spaying$50 – $500
Microchipping$40 – $60
Dog License$10 – $20
Other Essentials$30 – $80
Total Initial Cost$620 – $3,150

The table contains the estimated initial cost of owning a St. Bernard Australian Shepherd mix, and knowing this can help you prepare your budget before getting one.

Places to Find Saint Bernard Aussie Mix Puppies for Sale and Adoption

Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd mix puppy on the grass
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Finding a reputable breeder should be your top priority when trying to find a puppy to buy. Before buying, it is essential to visit the kennel to see the living conditions of the dogs as well as their parents. 

Below is a list of websites that may help you find St. Bernard Australian Shepherd mix breeders:

  • AKC Marketplace – If you are looking for reliable breeders, the AKC Marketplace is one of the best places to check out. On this platform, you’ll see AKC-approved breeders that specialize in raising and selling all kinds of dogs. Make sure to visit the AKC Marketplace from time to time to see if they have St. Bernard Aussie Shepherd mixes for sale.
  • Greenfield Puppies – This website advertises many different mixed breeds, including the Saint Bernard Aussie mix. Most of their breeders are monitored by representatives of Greenfield Puppies, looking for any red flags on the puppies’ health and well-being. They also make an effort to educate their breeders on breeding standards.
  • Keystone Puppies – The main goal of this website is to advertise both purebred and mixed breed puppies like Australian Shepherd mixes. This website ensures the safety of the dog and its buyers by conducting random inspections on their breeders at least twice a year.

Meanwhile, if you’re looking to adopt, below are some rescue organizations where you might find a St. Bernard Australian Shepherd mix:

  • Aussie Rescue So Cal Inc. – This is a website that promotes the adoption of homeless Australian Shepherd dogs and their mixes, including the St. Bernard Australian Shepherd mix. They connect with different volunteers and organizations to help Aussies in the areas of Southern California.
  • Adopt-a-Pet – The main goal of this website is to help connect neglected animals, such as Australian Shepherd mixes, to dog lovers seeking a fur baby. Their website also has a feature that enables users to receive alerts when a new breed or crossbreed is available for adoption.
  • Colorado Saint Bernard Rescue – This website promotes the adoption of unwanted, abused, and rescued Saint Bernard dogs in Colorado. They are a non-profit, all-volunteer organization dedicated to helping homeless Saint Bernard dogs and their mixes to find a new home.

If none of these websites offer the Saint Bernard Aussie mix of your preference, you can try contacting a rescue organization or breeder from Facebook and Instagram.

Pros and Cons of Owning an Australian Shepherd Saint Bernard Mix

St. Bernard Aussie mixes are loving and kind all-around dogs, which makes them perfect pets for people or families who love to stay active. However, like any other dog, owning this mix also comes with disadvantages.

To help you determine if this crossbreed is the perfect dog for you, we’ve gathered a list of the known pros and cons of having a St. Bernard Aussie mix dog.

Some of the advantages of owning an Australian Shepherd St. Bernard mix dog are listed below:

  • Intelligent dogs: St. Bernard Aussies learn quickly, which makes them highly trainable and easy to manage. This makes them good guard dogs and will be very helpful in doing small tasks such as watching the house and picking up lightweight tools.
  • Having loving personalities: Australian Shepherd St. Bernard mix dogs are kind and playful towards children and even other dogs, making them perfect for big families who love caring for various pets.
  • Active and extremely energetic: They are good companions for active singles who love outdoor activities such as hiking, running, and even cycling. St. Bernard Aussies have lots of energy that needs to be released throughout the day.

You should also be aware of the following disadvantages of owning a St. Bernard Australian Shepherd mix:

  • Tend to be very stubborn: Due to their intelligence, St. Bernard Aussies may reject new tricks they are being taught. Sometimes, they may refuse to listen to their trainers, so they often need to be trained with firmness and consistency.
  • Not good for apartment living: These dogs may not be as big as a classic Saint Bernard, but they still need a lot of space. Hence, they may not be comfortable in small houses. St. Bernard Aussies need to live somewhere with a big backyard so they can play and burn their energies off whenever they want.
  • Prone to hereditary health problems: Australian Shepherd St. Bernard mixes have a high chance of having allergies, joint dysplasia, and eye problems that can potentially lead to permanent blindness.

Doing research on both the advantages and disadvantages of owning a St. Bernard Aussie dog is important in determining whether or not you should adopt them.

This is a step you should not skip so that you know what to expect from your dog, and you’ll know how to handle them better.

Frequently Asked Questions

Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd mix up close
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Are Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd Mixes Good Dogs?

Generally, Saint Bernard Aussie dogs are good dogs. They pose no threats to their owners or even the people around them. In fact, they can easily get along with children and other pets.

They are intelligent, energetic, and highly active, making them good companions for singles who enjoy physical activities like jogging and cycling.

Do Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd Mixes Shed?

Due to their thick coats, these dogs are considered moderate to heavy shedders. The length of their coats depends on the dominant gene from their parents, but most of them shed a lot, just like Saint Bernards.

Thus, it is essential to be familiar with a grooming brush if you want to adopt a Saint Bernard Aussie because it may need to be brushed every other day.

Are Saint Bernard Australian Shepherd Mixes Hypoallergenic?

This crossbreed dog is not hypoallergenic. They have thick coats, so they shed a lot which means they may leave a mess of their fur in every corner of the house that may trigger allergies in humans.

Final Thoughts

The Saint Bernard Aussie mix is a rare crossbreed because their parents are not usually bred together. They can be quite expensive and hard to find, but they have many positive traits that make them extra special.

They are loving, kind, and hard-working dogs, making them perfect for families. They are good playmates for children and are ideal companions for active singles because they have lots of energy to burn.

However, this crossbreed needs to be trained with a firm hand, although they are considered a good choice for inexperienced owners. Thus, training them might be a bit of a challenge.

Do you think you are ready to own this mixed-breed dog? Let us know in the comments below your thoughts about the St. Bernard Aussie mix!

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