Given its continuous growth in popularity, many people are curious to know how much a Saint Bernard costs. Popularly known as the gentle giant, the Saint Bernard is one of the most sought-after dog breeds by pet lovers worldwide.
There are several factors that may affect the price of a Saint Bernard pup. These may include its pedigree, health condition, the selected breeder, and the breeder’s location.
If you’re a fan of the breed and would like to know the Saint Bernard price, this article has everything you need to know. Puppy costs, first-year expenses, and the best places to find Saint Bernards are featured in this guide.
How Much Does a Saint Bernard Puppy Cost?
The average cost of a pet-quality Saint Bernard puppy ranges from $1,000 to $2,000. Meanwhile, Saint Bernard dogs from champion lines may have prices ranging from $2,000 to $3,000. Saint Bernard puppy prices may also vary depending on the dog’s quality, pedigree, and color rarity.
When deciding to purchase a Saint Bernard puppy, make sure to look for reputable breeders. Responsible breeders put the utmost priority on a dog’s health, safety, and overall well-being.
The breeder’s location may also affect the Saint Bernard price. Purchasing from breeders located in far or remote areas may add to the total cost of purchase. Additional costs may include travel and lodging.
Although purchasing from reputable and well-known breeders may result in higher costs, it is often worth the price to ensure your dog is healthy and free of any genetic health issues.
Avoid purchasing from breeders or online listings that feature an incredibly low Saint Bernard price. These could potentially be backyard breeders, puppy mills, or scams.
How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Saint Bernard From a Shelter?
Generally, the adoption fee for Saint Bernard dogs can range from $150 to $600. Prices may also vary depending on the location of your selected shelter or rescue organization.
Adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue organization is always a great option when deciding to get a dog. Not only will you save money, but you will also contribute to a good cause and help save some rescue dogs.
Some shelters and rescue organizations include vaccination, registration, and microchip fees in the adoption fees. Although it may increase the overall price, this helps ensure the health and safety of each dog.
First-Time Expenses of Saint Bernard Ownership
Aside from the upfront cost of purchasing or adopting a Saint Bernard, there are other expenses you should consider. These expenses typically include food, beds, collars and leashes, vet fees, and more.
Below are some initial expenses associated with owning a Saint Bernard:
- Food and Treats: Pet owners are encouraged to select a high-quality dog food that is rich in vitamins and nutrients. Treats are also a good tool to use to reward your Saint Bernard during obedience training. The average price for food and treats ranges from $80 to $150.
- Bowls: It is recommended to invest in high-quality food and water bowls for your Saint Bernard. It is best to purchase stainless bowls that are durable and easy to clean and will last a long time. The cost range for these items is around $15 to $40.
- Toys: Saint Bernard puppies usually have high energy levels, which is why purchasing toys is encouraged to keep their bodies active and their minds sharp. It is best to select sturdy, durable, and high-quality chew toys that can last a long time. These items typically cost around $30 to $100.
- Beds: Since Saint Bernard dogs are also known as gentle giants, they require a large bed where they can sleep and relax. The cost range is around $50 to $300. Only select durable and high-quality beds since Saint Bernards are one of the many dog breeds that are at a high risk of hip dysplasia.
- Collars and Leashes: Like many other breeds, Saint Bernard dogs need to go on regular walks to keep them active and maintain a healthy weight. Durable collars and leashes that can handle the size, weight, and strength of a Saint Bernard are required. The cost range for these items is around $15 to $50.
- Crates and Carriers: A crate and carrier are typical needs of Saint Bernard puppies. These are helpful for when you need to take your Saint Bernard puppies to the vet or other places that are too far to travel to on foot. The cost range for high-quality crates and carriers is around $60 to $500.
- Grooming Essentials: Since Saint Bernards shed with their fluffy medium or long coats, investing in high-quality grooming essentials for proper coat care is recommended. These dogs can either have constant or seasonal shedding, where they can shed every day or only shed heavily during spring and fall. These essentials may cost around $50 to $250.
- Initial Vet Visits: Prioritizing the health of your Saint Bernard puppies is a must. It is highly recommended to go on regular vet visits or check-ups to ensure the health of your pooch. Medical expenses may cost around $100 to $500.
- Initial Vaccine Shots: Vaccine shots are one of the most important things to get for Saint Bernard puppies. They help boost their immune systems and help prevent several life-threatening health issues. These usually cost around $50 to $300.
- Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications: Several dogs, including Saint Bernards, are prone to catching parasites. It is the obligation of pet owners to keep their dogs free from these harmful parasites through medications. These usually cost around $40 to $300.
- Neutering or Spaying: It is typically advised by veterinarians and breeders to have your Saint Bernards neutered or spayed at a very young age. This is especially recommended if you have no plans of breeding your dog. These procedures may cost around $50 to $500, depending on how much your vet charges.
- Microchipping: A microchip is a tiny device that is implanted in a dog’s skin. This microchip contains all the relevant information about your Saint Bernard pup and you as the owner. This is typically registered at your local or national pet recovery database and is extremely useful in the instance that your Saint Bernard ever gets lost. This would cost around $40 to $60.
- Dog License: A dog license contains a unique identification number that can easily be traced. The registration fee and license usually cost around $10 to $20.
- Other Essentials: Maintenance materials and cleaning tools such as odor neutralizers, poop scoopers, carpet cleaners, and poop bags are some supplies you would need when owning a Saint Bernard. These expenses would usually range from around $30 to $80.
Below is a table summarizing all the initial expenses that come with owning a Saint Bernard dog:
| Type of Expense | Cost |
| 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 |
Although the list of expenses may seem quite long and pricey, don’t be dismayed. The majority of these expenses are only one-time purchases. These may include bowls, grooming essentials, and a dog microchip.
When purchasing items for your Saint Bernard puppies, be sure to only invest in high-quality items that would last a long time. Avoid purchasing cheap, low-quality items that easily break.
To help save money, you may try looking for Saint Bernard breeders that offer discounts or freebies.
Annual Cost of Owning a Saint Bernard
Aside from the initial cost of owning a Saint Bernard, there are other annual expenses that you will incur as your Saint Bernard grows. As this dog ages and develops throughout the years, so do its needs and expenses.
The usual recurring expenses associated with owning a full-grown Saint Bernard include food and treats, vet visits, and grooming.
To give you a summary, below are the usual expenses you must expect when owning a Saint Bernard:
| Type of Expense | Yearly Estimate |
| Food and Treats | $900 – $1,500 |
| Routine Veterinary Care | $200 – $600 |
| Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications | $150 – $500 |
| Vaccinations | $100 – $250 |
| Grooming Essentials | $200 – $600 |
| Leashes and Collars | $50 – $100 |
| Beds and Crates | $300 – $800 |
| Toys | $100 – $300 |
| Pet Insurance | $800 – $1,500 |
| Other Essentials | $50 – $100 |
| Yearly Total | $2,850 – $6,250 |
| Average Monthly Cost | $237 – $520 |
The highest-priced expenses listed on the table are food and treats, routine veterinary care, and pet insurance, all of which are very important. Providing the best care for your St. Bernard can help lengthen its lifespan.
Given the average life expectancy of the St. Bernard breed, which is 8 to 10 years old, you can multiply the estimated annual expenses to give you an overview of the lifetime expenses of owning this breed.
Other Potential Expenses to Consider
Aside from the expected first-time expenses and annual costs associated with owning a St. Bernard, there are other potential expenses to consider.
That said, it is highly recommended to set aside an emergency fund for your St. Bernard. Given its size and weight in comparison to other dogs, the St. Bernard dog breed would require a slightly larger emergency fund.
Listed below are five other potential expenses you may encounter when owning Saint Bernard dogs:
- Emergency Medical Expenses: It is highly recommended to have a separate fund for your St. Bernard in case of medical emergencies. Since this large dog breed can be prone to health issues such as bone cancer and hip and elbow dysplasia, owners must be prepared to take on any unexpected situation. A budget of $1,000 to $5,000 is a good amount to set aside for emergency procedures and medications.
- Training: While most dogs learn quickly with basic home training, not all dogs are quite as easy to handle. Some owners prefer to have their Saint Bernard dogs professionally taught by dog trainers to achieve quicker results. Prepare to pay around $60 to $500 for training costs.
- Dog Sitting: An instance or event may arise where you are required to travel but won’t be able to bring your big dog along. This is where a dog sitter becomes extremely useful. Owners have the option of hiring dog sitters to take care of their Saint Bernards while they’re away. Their daily rate could range from around $15 to $30.
- Dog Walking: Similar to dog sitting, there may be instances where you won’t be able to personally take your dog out for a walk. If so, a dog walker can be hired to do the task for you. Dog walkers typically offer various time durations to choose from. Prepare to pay around $30 to $45 for a 30-minute walk, depending on the location.
- Travel: If you’re a dog lover who enjoys traveling with your pup or has a service dog that needs to be present at all times, prepare to pay extra fees for transportation and accommodation that entertain dogs. These travel costs could range from around $60 to $500.
Preparing a budget dedicated to unexpected or emergency expenses is extremely useful. Not only will you be financially prepared for any situation, but you will also be able to avoid spending outside of your means.
Best Places to Find Saint Bernard Puppies for Sale and Adoption
If you have decided that the Saint Bernard is the perfect dog breed for you, it is now time for you to select the best breeders, shelters, or rescue organizations which you can purchase or adopt St. Bernard dogs from.
As an experienced breeder, I highly recommend getting Saint Bernard puppies from responsible breeders who do not hesitate to show the litter’s parents and their current environment or living conditions.
Usually, I can vouch for these breeders, who also do not hesitate to answer questions from the new fur parents and will partner with them in providing the right care for the puppies.
Listed below are a few credible websites featuring breeders who offer Saint Bernard dogs:
- AKC Marketplace – The AKC Marketplace is one of the most trusted and reputable online sources for purchasing purebred dogs. AKC currently has over a hundred Saint Bernard puppy listings that feature the dog’s age, location, and other important details.
- Saint Bernard Club of America Breeder Referrals – The Saint Bernard Club of America (SBCA) is a non-profit organization that encourages the ownership, selective breeding, showing, and training of the Saint Bernard breed. Their breeders have been SBCA members for at least five years, owned at least two champions, and abide by the SBCA’s guidelines in breeding.
- Good Dog – Good Dog is a network of reputable breeders who are committed to the health and welfare of dogs. They only accept responsible and ethical breeders who make conscientious decisions when breeding. They primarily select St. Bernard breeders who focus on the physical health and safety of their puppies.
If you would rather adopt from a shelter or rescue organization, check out these sources where you may find Saint Bernard puppies up for adoption:
- Saint Bernard Rescue Foundation (SBRF) – The mission of the Saint Bernard Rescue Foundation (SBRF) is to care for and find homes for abandoned and neglected Saint Bernard dogs. They provide medical services and assist in the rescue of those subjected to dangerous conditions.
- Petfinder – Petfinder is a platform that aims to connect aspiring pet owners to reputable rescue organizations. Petfinder’s website has hundreds of listings for available Saint Bernard dogs for adoption. Make sure to use their search filters to get results tailored to your needs.
- American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) – ASPCA is an advocate for rehabilitating abandoned pets from all over the country. Like other adoption platforms, they are connected to thousands of shelters and rescues in the United States. Check out their listings from time to time to see if they have Saint Bernard offerings.
When deciding to get a Saint Bernard, adopting from your local shelter or rescue organization is always a great first option. You would be able to save money, contribute to a worthwhile cause, and save the life of a rescue dog.
If you choose to purchase instead, be sure to conduct thorough research on your selected breeder beforehand. Only buy a St. Bernard from an ethical and responsible breeder who prioritizes the health and safety of dogs.
Before conducting any transactions online, it is highly encouraged to personally meet your selected breeder to learn more about their background and facility.
On a slightly different note, watch this heartwarming story of a Saint Bernard finding its first home:
Money-Saving Tips for Saint Bernard Owners
Now that you’ve learned about the Saint Bernard price as well as the monthly and annual costs of caring for this giant pup, it’s time to learn some money-saving techniques.
Below are some tips you can follow to save cost on Saint Bernard ownership:
- Invest in high-quality items. It is always encouraged to invest in high-quality items for your Saint Bernard dog. Although they tend to have a higher price range, the quality is well worth the difference. Cheap items typically break easily, which could result in several repeated purchases that cost more in the long run.
- Train your Saint Bernard at home. Although a dog trainer can be extremely useful, it is possible to train your Saint Bernard in the comfort of your home. Several online sources feature videos, photos, and articles on how to provide basic and proper obedience training. This could also serve as a bonding experience for you and your pup.
- Groom your Saint Bernard at home. One of the most expensive recurring costs of caring for a Saint Bernard is the grooming expense. Given its size and fluffy coat, grooming expenses could be quite costly. Investing in high-quality tools could help you save a lot of money. Several videos online can guide you on how to properly groom your St. Bernard.
- Make homemade treats. Dog food and treats are typically the largest expenses when owning a Saint Bernard. Making homemade organic options and treats is a good way of saving money and ensuring the quality of the food your pup eats. Be sure to have a list of the food dogs aren’t allowed to consume to avoid poisoning.
Although there are several more ways to save money when owning and caring for a Saint Bernard, its quality of life should never be compromised or sacrificed for the sake of saving money.
Final Thoughts
The Saint Bernard is a very charming, gentle, and affectionate family pet. Although they can be quite expensive dogs compared to others, their endearing personalities are definitely worth every penny.
Since owning a pup is a full-time responsibility, interested owners must first assess if they are physically, emotionally, and financially ready to own and care for a Saint Bernard.
Adopting a St. Bernard from a shelter or rescue is always a great first option. If you decide to purchase one instead, be sure to conduct thorough research on your selected reputable breeder beforehand.
If you own a Saint Bernard, we’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below. All questions regarding the Saint Bernard price are also welcome!
