# The Complete Guide to St\. Bernard Health Issues: A Veterinarian‘s Perspective - Canonical: https://33rdsquare.com/the-complete-guide-to-st-bernard-health-issues-a-veterinarians-perspective/ - Published: 2024-04-05 - Author: Savanna Read - Categories: [Dog](https://33rdsquare.com/category/dog/) --- As a veterinarian and lifelong dog lover, I‘m always eager to educate prospective owners about the breeds they‘re interested in. And when it comes to St. Bernards, there‘s a lot to cover in the health department. These gentle giants are undeniably charming with their big, goofy smiles and calm demeanors, but they also come with some breed-specific health concerns that everyone needs to be aware of before bringing one home. ## Understanding the Stats According to a [survey by the St. Bernard Club of America](http://saintbernardclub.org/health-survey/), the most common health issues reported in the breed are hip dysplasia (19% of dogs), entropion (18%), elbow dysplasia (11%), and epilepsy (10%). Other orthopedic problems like cruciate ligament rupture and osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) were also frequently reported. While these numbers might seem scary, it‘s important to remember that many St. Bernards live full, healthy lives without any major medical issues. However, I always advise prospective owners to be prepared, both financially and emotionally, to deal with potential health problems down the line. ## Joint Health Concerns St. Bernards are a giant breed, and with that large frame comes an increased risk of orthopedic issues. Hip and elbow dysplasia, which occur when the joints fail to develop properly, are two of the most common culprits. These conditions can lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis, often requiring lifelong management or even expensive surgery to correct. As a vet, one of the most heartbreaking things to see is a dog struggling to walk or play due to joint problems. That‘s why I can‘t emphasize enough how important it is to get your St. Bernard from a responsible breeder who performs health testing on their breeding stock. Look for hip and elbow scores from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), and avoid any breeders who can‘t provide this information. Even with health testing, some St. Bernards may still develop joint issues. Keeping your dog lean, providing joint supplements, and utilizing physical therapy can all help manage symptoms and slow the progression of arthritis. In severe cases, surgery may be recommended. A total hip replacement can cost upwards of $7,000 per hip, so it‘s crucial to have a financial plan in place. > "I‘ve owned St. Bernards for over 20 years, and I‘ve seen firsthand how debilitating hip dysplasia can be. It‘s so important to do your research and choose a breeder who prioritizes health testing. Even then, be prepared for the possibility of managing joint issues down the line. But I can tell you, these dogs are worth every penny and every bit of effort." – Mary R., St. Bernard owner and enthusiast ## Eye Problems Abound With their droopy faces and saggy skin, it‘s no surprise St. Bernards are prone to a number of eye issues. Entropion, where the eyelid rolls inward and rubs against the cornea, and ectropion, where the eyelid droops outward and exposes the eye, are both common problems. Cherry eye, or a prolapsed third eyelid gland, is also frequently seen in the breed. Most of these conditions require surgical correction to prevent long-term damage to the eye. Entropion surgery can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500 per eye, while cherry eye repair averages around $800. It‘s important to catch and treat these issues early to avoid complications like corneal ulcers or vision loss. As a St. Bernard owner, checking your dog‘s eyes daily for any signs of redness, discharge, or discomfort is crucial. Keep the skin around the eyes clean and dry, and don‘t hesitate to consult with your vet at the first sign of a problem. Trust me, your dog will thank you for it! ## The Looming Threat of Bloat Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV), commonly known as bloat, is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. Giant breeds like St. Bernards are at a significantly higher risk of developing GDV, with a [reported incidence of 7.5% in the breed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24299544/). Symptoms of bloat come on suddenly and include a distended abdomen, retching without producing vomit, restlessness, and rapid, shallow breathing. If you suspect your St. Bernard is suffering from GDV, immediate veterinary care is crucial. Even with prompt treatment, up to 50% of affected dogs will not survive. Prevention is key when it comes to bloat. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding exercise before and after eating, and keeping your St. Bernard at a healthy weight can all help reduce the risk. Many owners also opt for a preventative gastropexy, a surgery that tacks the stomach to the abdominal wall to prevent twisting. This procedure can be done at the same time as spaying or neutering. > "I nearly lost my St. Bernard to bloat a few years ago. It was the scariest thing I‘ve ever been through. I wish I had known about gastropexy surgery sooner. Now, I recommend it to every giant breed owner I know. The peace of mind is worth the cost of the procedure, which can range from $500 to $2,000." – John D., St. Bernard owner ## Cardiac Concerns Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a condition where the heart muscle becomes thin and weak, is another health issue that St. Bernard owners need to be aware of. DCM can lead to congestive heart failure and premature death if not caught and treated early. Symptoms of DCM include coughing, difficulty breathing, weakness, and collapse. Annual heart screenings with your veterinarian can help catch the disease in its early stages, when treatment is most effective. Management usually involves medications to support heart function and reduce fluid buildup, as well as dietary changes and exercise restriction. While there is a genetic component to DCM, lifestyle factors also play a role. Keeping your St. Bernard at a healthy weight, feeding a high-quality diet, and providing regular moderate exercise can all support heart health. Some veterinarians may also recommend specific heart-healthy supplements like omega-3 fatty acids or taurine. ## The Importance of Health Testing One of the best ways to stack the odds in your favor when it comes to your St. Bernard‘s health is to purchase from a responsible breeder who performs extensive health testing on their breeding stock. Look for breeders who are members of the St. Bernard Club of America and follow the club‘s recommended health testing guidelines. At a minimum, breeding St. Bernards should have OFA hip and elbow scores, an eye examination by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist, and a cardiac evaluation. Some breeders may also test for other conditions like degenerative myelopathy or hypothyroidism. Remember, health testing is not a guarantee that your puppy will be free of genetic health problems, but it does significantly reduce the risk. Be wary of any breeder who claims their dogs are "100% healthy" or doesn‘t provide proof of health clearances. > "As a St. Bernard breeder, health testing is my top priority. I want to produce the healthiest, happiest puppies possible, and that means doing everything in my power to screen for potential issues. It‘s an investment, but it‘s worth it to know I‘m doing right by my dogs and the families who take them home." – Sarah T., responsible St. Bernard breeder ## Living with a St. Bernard Owning a giant breed dog like a St. Bernard comes with some unique challenges, especially as they age. Maintaining mobility is crucial for these big dogs, and that means staying on top of joint health with supplements, anti-inflammatories, and physical therapy as needed. As your St. Bernard enters their senior years (around age 6-7), they may start slowing down and require more accommodations. Ramps or stairs to help them get in and out of the car, orthopedic dog beds to cushion their joints, and raised food and water bowls to ease neck strain can all make a big difference in their comfort level. It‘s also important to keep a close eye on your senior St. Bernard‘s weight, as obesity puts extra strain on their already taxed joints. Switch to a senior dog food formula, monitor portion sizes, and don‘t overdo it on the treats. Regular low-impact exercise like swimming or short, slow walks can help maintain muscle tone without adding too much stress. > "Caring for a senior St. Bernard can be a lot of work, but it‘s also incredibly rewarding. Watching my old guy navigate the world with grace and dignity, even as his body starts to fail him, is a daily reminder of the unbreakable bond we share. Every extra day I get with him is a gift." – Emily L., owner of a 10-year-old St. Bernard ## The Bottom Line St. Bernards are a special breed with some special health considerations. From joint problems to eye issues to the risk of bloat, these gentle giants require informed, dedicated owners who are prepared to navigate potential medical challenges. But for those who are up to the task, the rewards of owning a St. Bernard are immeasurable. These big, lovable dogs have a way of stealing your heart and becoming an integral part of the family. And with proper care, nutrition, and a little bit of luck, they can enjoy a long, happy, and healthy life by your side. As a veterinarian and a lifelong dog lover, my advice to prospective St. Bernard owners is this: do your research, choose a responsible breeder, and be prepared for the financial and emotional responsibilities of caring for a giant breed dog. But most importantly, cherish every moment you have with your gentle giant. The love and loyalty they offer in return is truly priceless. --- Source: [The Complete Guide to St\. Bernard Health Issues: A Veterinarian‘s Perspective](https://33rdsquare.com/the-complete-guide-to-st-bernard-health-issues-a-veterinarians-perspective/)