Cost of a St. Bernard Puppy by US Region [2023]

St. Bernards, with their endearing nature and considerable size, make for delightful family companions. While their initial purchase or adoption cost is a significant investment, the ongoing expenses associated with their care are equally essential to consider. Here’s a breakdown of the costs you can expect when owning a St. Bernard throughout their lifetime:

1. Food and Nutrition: Given their large size, St. Bernards consume a substantial amount of food. A monthly budget of $80 to $120 for high-quality dog food is reasonable. Over a lifespan of 8-10 years, this amounts to $7,680 to $14,400.
2. Veterinary Care: Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive treatments can average $200 to $500 annually. Considering potential health issues common to the breed, such as hip dysplasia and heart conditions, you may occasionally face higher medical bills. Over their lifetime, vet costs can sum up to $1,600 to $5,000.
3. Grooming: St. Bernards have dense coats that require regular grooming, especially during shedding seasons. With grooming sessions at $50 to $100, and occurring 6-8 times a year, lifetime grooming expenses can range from $2,400 to $8,000.
4. Training: While St. Bernards are gentle, their size makes proper training essential. Group training sessions or puppy classes might cost $100 to $300 in total during their early years.
5. Accessories and Miscellaneous: Items such as large beds, toys, leashes, and crates can initially sum up to $200 to $500. As items wear out, you might incur an annual expense of around $50 to $150, resulting in a total of $400 to $1,500 over their lifetime.
6. Boarding and Pet-sitting: Should you need to travel or require temporary care, boarding or pet-sitting can cost $40 to $70 per day. Assuming two weeks of boarding annually, the lifetime cost can range from $2,240 to $7,000.
7. Health Insurance: Given their susceptibility to certain health issues, insurance might be a wise choice. Monthly premiums can range from $40 to $80, leading to an annual cost of $480 to $960, or $3,840 to $9,600 over 8-10 years.
8. End-of-life costs: Euthanasia, cremation, or burial expenses can be between $150 to $400.

In total, excluding the initial cost of obtaining a St. Bernard puppy or rescue, the lifetime expenses can range from $18,260 to $45,800. These figures offer a broad estimate and can vary based on individual choices, the dog’s health, and regional price differences. Proper financial planning ensures a comfortable life for your gentle giant and helps in preparing for any unexpected expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions about The Cost of a St. Bernard Puppy

1. How much food will a St. Bernard typically consume, and what’s the monthly cost?

St. Bernards are large dogs and thus have considerable appetites. On average, they require 5-8 cups of high-quality dog food daily. Depending on the brand and quality, expect to spend between $80 to $120 per month on their diet.

2. Are St. Bernards prone to any specific health issues that may affect my budget?

Yes, St. Bernards are susceptible to certain conditions like hip dysplasia, heart conditions, and eye disorders. It’s wise to budget for potential veterinary expenses or consider pet insurance to mitigate the cost of unforeseen medical treatments.

3. How often does a St. Bernard need grooming, and what’s the typical expense?

With their dense coats, St. Bernards should be groomed every 6-8 weeks, especially during shedding seasons. Professional grooming sessions can range from $50 to $100 each, depending on the services offered and your location.

4. Is obedience training recommended for a St. Bernard?

Absolutely. Due to their size, even though St. Bernards are generally gentle, it’s crucial to ensure they have proper manners. A basic obedience class might cost between $100 to $300, and it’s a valuable investment for a well-behaved dog.

5. How much should I budget for initial setup items like beds, crates, and toys?

Considering the size and needs of a St. Bernard, initial setup costs for items like large beds, sturdy toys, a crate, and other essentials can range from $200 to $500.

6. Is pet insurance a wise investment for a St. Bernard?

Given their predisposition to certain health issues, many St. Bernard owners find peace of mind with pet insurance. Monthly premiums can vary but expect to spend between $40 to $80, which can significantly reduce costs for significant medical treatments.

7. How much do boarding and pet-sitting services typically cost for St. Bernards?

Because of their size, boarding or pet-sitting services might be slightly higher than for smaller breeds. Rates can range from $40 to $70 per day, varying based on the facility’s quality and regional differences.

8. Are there any toys or accessories specially designed for St. Bernards?

While St. Bernards can enjoy toys like any dog, they benefit from sturdy and large-sized toys. Durable chew toys, large balls, and robust ropes are recommended, and investing in quality items means fewer replacements and costs in the long run.

9. Do St. Bernards require a specific kind of bed or resting area due to their size?

Yes, St. Bernard benefit from orthopedic or large-sized beds that support their weight and size. A quality bed can range from $50 to $200, ensuring they have a comfortable place to rest and reducing potential joint issues.

10. Are there any unexpected expenses I should prepare for with a St. Bernard?

While you can budget for regular expenses, unexpected ones can arise, like treatments for unforeseen health conditions or damage to household items. Setting aside a small emergency fund annually can help alleviate the strain of these unplanned costs.