Saint Berdoodle

The Saint Berdoodle is a mix of two incredible breeds: the gentle giant Saint Bernard and the highly intelligent Poodle. With roots going back to the 1880s in the U.S., breeders aimed to combine the nurturing, protective traits of the Saint Bernard with the trainable, intelligent qualities of the Poodle, making the Saint Berdoodle a fantastic family companion.

1. Saint Bernard History- Source: AKC
2. Poodle- Source: AKC

Saint Bernards, known for their lifesaving history—rescuing over 2,000 people between 1700 and 1900—earned their title as “nanny dogs.” This hybrid reflects the best of both breeds, blending a loving nature with high intelligence and adaptability.

The Saint Berdoodle combines some of the best personality traits of both Saint Bernards and Poodles, resulting in a friendly, affectionate, and highly social dog who loves being involved in family activities. These dogs are happiest when surrounded by people and don’t enjoy being left alone for long. With the Saint Bernard’s curiosity and the Poodle’s intelligence, the Saint Berdoodle is clever and adaptable.

Thanks to the Poodle’s trainability, they’re easy to guide and socialize from a young age, which also helps manage any potential mischief. Known as “nanny dogs,” Saint Bernards bring a gentle and protective spirit to this mix, making the Saint Berdoodle a loving, loyal family companion.

• Potential Challenges

Due to their large size, Saint Berdoodles require supervision around very young children, as accidental bumps or steps can happen. The Poodle’s adventurous, higher-energy side and Saint Bernard’s inquisitiveness means these dogs need daily outdoor exercise and appreciate a good nap afterward. Overall, they’re eager to please and quite easygoing, but their social nature and energy levels mean they thrive with regular attention and activity.

Saint Berdoodles have a robust and sturdy build, combining the strong physique of Saint Bernard with the elegant features of the Poodle. They typically have warm, friendly expressions with medium-sized ears that may hang down or have a slight wave. Their dark, expressive eyes reflect intelligence and loving nature, giving them an inviting charm that makes them visually appealing companions.

• Size

Saint Berdoodles generally come in larger sizes, as breeding typically involves a Saint Bernard with a Standard Poodle rather than a Miniature or Toy Poodle. Saint Bernards are naturally large, while Standard Poodles range from medium to large.

In terms of weight, Saint Berdoodles usually start at around 40 pounds on the smaller end for females, with males beginning at 50 pounds. The upper limit can reach up to 180 pounds, similar to a large Saint Bernard.

Height for this breed ranges between 15 and 30 inches. While there have been efforts to create a Miniature Saint Berdoodle weighing 20 to 50 pounds and standing 14 to 18 inches tall, this version typically involves a third breed, often a Cocker Spaniel, to achieve a smaller size.

• Coat color

Saint Berdoodles can inherit a range of coat types from their parent breeds, with textures that may be wiry and curly like a Poodle’s or longer and smooth or rough like a Saint Bernard’s. They also exhibit a variety of colors, often influenced by their parentage. Common combinations include white-and-brown and white-and-black, as well as red with white accents or white with red accents.

1. Brown and White St Berdoodle- Source: puppypawsnkisses
2. Fawn St Berdoodle- Source: atx.doodlebros
3. Fawn and white St Berdoodle- Source: walkwith_elias
4. White and Grey St Berdoodle- Source: mateo_and_muffy

There are very few differences between male and female Saint Berdoodles aside from size. Males are generally larger than females, but both are still considered massive dogs, so the size difference isn't significant. Most experts advise spaying females and neutering males, as this helps reduce any hormonal differences between the sexes.

An ideal diet for a Saint Berdoodle should be tailored for a large breed with medium energy levels, typically requiring about 3.5 cups of food per day. You'll need to assess your dog's energy level based on which parent it resembles more—the higher-energy Poodle or the lower-energy Saint Bernard.

Like all dogs, a Saint Berdoodle’s dietary needs will evolve from puppyhood to adulthood and into their senior years. It's important to consult your veterinarian for personalized dietary recommendations, as individual factors such as weight, energy, and health can vary significantly.

Saint Berdoodles are generally healthy dogs, but like any breed, they can inherit health issues from their parent breeds. Regular care and annual veterinary check-ups are essential for maintaining optimal health. Some common health problems associated with Saint Berdoodles include:

• Hip Dysplasia: This is a common skeletal condition where the hip joint does not develop correctly, leading to instability and an increased risk of arthritis. Preventive measures include maintaining a healthy weight, providing appropriate exercise, and using joint supplements as recommended by your veterinarian.
• Ear Infections: Inflammation or infection can occur in the outer, middle, or inner ear, often due to bacteria or yeast, causing discomfort and potentially hearing loss. Regular ear cleaning and routine veterinary check-ups can help prevent infections and maintain ear health.
• Wobbler Syndrome: This neurological condition affects large-breed dogs, leading to instability in the cervical spine, which can cause wobbling or weakness in the hind limbs. Preventive care includes avoiding excessive jumping or rough play and ensuring a balanced diet to support overall health.
• Bloat: Also known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), this life-threatening condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood flow and leading to shock. To reduce the risk of bloat, it's advised to feed smaller, more frequent meals and avoid vigorous exercise immediately after eating.
• Skin Problems: Saint Berdoodles may experience various dermatological issues, including allergies, infections, or parasites, leading to itching, redness, hair loss, or skin lesions. Regular grooming, maintaining a clean living environment, and consulting with a veterinarian for any persistent skin issues can help prevent these problems.
• Von Willebrand’s Disease: This hereditary bleeding disorder is characterized by a deficiency in von Willebrand factor, a protein necessary for blood clotting, which can lead to excessive bleeding and bruising. Screening for this condition and monitoring for any signs of abnormal bleeding can help manage the risk effectively.

Saint Berdoodles have varied energy levels; they may be high-energy like a Poodle or lower-energy like a Saint Bernard. Daily exercise, including multiple shorter walks, is essential, as they also benefit from naps throughout the day.

While Saint Berdoodles have long ears, they are not particularly prone to ear infections. Regularly check their ears for debris, and your vet may recommend cleaning with a vet-approved solution. Additionally, inspect their eyes to ensure they remain free of infection or debris.

Nail trims should occur about once a month. A good indicator that it's time for a trim is the sound of clicking nails on the floor. You can do this yourself with special trimmers or have a groomer assist. It's also important to brush your dog’s teeth two to three times a week.

Saint Berdoodles are generally low-maintenance. If they have the Poodle's curly coat, they will need regular trims, while those with the Saint Bernard's shaggier coat should be brushed weekly, particularly during "shedding season." They are not heavy shedders.

Bathing should happen once a month or as needed. They are typically well-suited for cold weather, but caution is needed in high heat—avoid prolonged outdoor exposure when temperatures exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

For exercise, aim for at least 30 to 60 minutes daily of activities like walks and playtime to keep them physically fit and mentally stimulated.

While Saint Berdoodles can sometimes be found in shelters, it's essential to remember that being a hybrid breed means they are more commonly located through breed-specific rescues for their parent breeds, St Bernard and Poodle. Many rescue organizations dedicated to these breeds may occasionally take in Saint Berdoodles and help find them loving homes. If you’re considering adopting a Saint Berdoodle, check with these rescues to increase your chances of finding one in need of a family.

Colorado Saint Bernard Rescue

Carolina Poodle Rescue

You can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 for a Saint Berdoodle.When looking to purchase a St Berdoodle, it’s crucial to seek reputable breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs. As a hybrid breed, prices can vary significantly based on factors such as lineage, location, and breeder reputation.  Ensure you do thorough research, ask for health clearances, and visit the breeder’s facilities to meet the puppies and their parents before making a decision.

Poodle Puppies For Sale - AKC Marketplace

Saint Bernard Puppies For Sale - AKC Marketplace

• Saint Berdoodles typically weigh between 110 and 200 pounds. Even at four months old, they can weigh around 60 pounds! Despite their size, they often don’t realize how big they are and might attempt to curl up on small beds or snuggle like lap dogs.
• The Mini Saint Berdoodle is a blend of three different breeds, typically incorporating a Cocker Spaniel into the mix.

Saint Berdoodles are best suited for families and individuals who can provide plenty of love and attention. Their friendly and affectionate nature makes them ideal companions for those looking for a loyal and gentle pet. Additionally, they thrive in homes with ample space for exercise and play, making them great for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities.