Are you looking for a pious, defensive, and tender family breed? The Saint Bernard German Shepherd mix might be the perfect strain for you! This unique mongrel combines the gentle giant nature of the St. Bernard with the intelligence and versatility of the German Shepherd.
In this complete companion, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this mixed strain, including.
Physical Characteristics Of Saint Bernard German Shepherd Mix
Disposition and Personality
Training and Exercise Needs
Health and Lifetime
Grooming Conditions
Is this the right breed for you?
Let’s dive in!
1. What Is a St Bernard German Shepherd Mix?
The St. Bernard German Shepherd Mix (Shepherd Bernard or German Saint) is a cross between a St. Bernard and a German Shepherd. This mongrel is known for its large size, intelligence, and fidelity, making it an excellent companion for active families.
Parent Types Overview
St. Bernard
Size: Giant (120-180 lbs.)
Temper: Gentle, Friendly and Calm
Lifespan: 8-10 Years
Best For: Families, Cold Climates
German Shepherd
Size: Large (50-90 lbs.)
Temper: Intelligent, Defensive and Energetic
Lifespan: 9-13 Years
Best For: Active families, Guard breeds
The mix inherits traits from both parents, performing in a strong, pious and largely trainable breed.
2. Physical Characteristics of a St Bernard German Shepherd Mix
Since this is a mixed strain, their appearance can vary. Still, most Shepherd Bernard partake in these common traits.
Size & Weight
Height: 24-30 elevation (at the shoulder)
Weight: 90-140 lbs. (some may be lower or larger).
Coat & Colors
Coat Type: Medium to long, thick and double coated (inherited from both parents).
Common Colors
> Black and Tan
> Brown and White
> Sable
> Tricolor (Black, Brown, White)
Facial Features
> May have the St Bernard’s droopy eyes or the German Shepherd’s alert expression.
> Ears can be droopy or erect.
3. Disposition & Personality
This blend is known for being
Pious & Defensive: Great guard types, devoted to their family.
Gentle & Friendly: Good with kiddies and other pets if mingled beforehand.
Intelligent & Trainable: Learns commands snappily but needs harmonious training.
Can Be Stubborn: May inherit the St. Bernard’s relaxed station or the German Shepherd’s strong will.
Are They Good Family Dogs?
Yes! They’re great with children due to their calm and gentle nature. Still, their large size means they should be supervised around small kiddies.
4. Training & Exercise Needs
Training Tips
> Start early socialization to help prevent overprotectiveness.
> Use positive underpinning (treats, praise).
> Be patient; St. Bernard’s can be slow learners.
Exercise Conditions:
> Daily walks (45-60 minutes), playtime.
> They enjoy hiking, cost, and dexterity training.
> Without enough exercise, they may become destructive.
5. Health & Lifespan
Lifespan: 8 to 12 years (varies based on genetics).
Common Health Issues:
Hip & Elbow Dysplasia: It is common in large breeds
Bloat (GDV): Feed lower reflections and avoid exercise after eating.
Heart Conditions: Regular warhorse checks are essential.
Skin Disinfections: Proper grooming helps.
How to Keep Them Healthy?
> High Quality diet
> warhorse visits
> Weight operation (rotundity is a threat)
6. Grooming Needs
> Brushing 2 to 3 times a week (further during the slipping season).
> Bathing once every 6 to 8 weeks.
> Nail Trimming Yearly.
> Ears should be cleaned weekly to help prevent infections.
7. Is a St Bernard German Shepherd Mix Right for You?
Ideal For
> Active families
> Endured breed possessors
> Homes with space (not ideal for apartments)
Not Ideal For
> First-time breed possessors (can be stubborn)
> Small living spaces
> Possessors who want a low-conservation breed
Conclusion
The St. Bernard German Shepherd Mix is a pious, intelligent, and loving companion for the right family. With proper training, exercise, and care, this mongrel can be an amazing addition to your home.
Thinking of Adopting one?
> Check the original harbors for mixed types.
> Exploration estimable breeders.
> Prepare for a large, energetic, and tender breed!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What’s a St. Bernard German Shepherd blend called?
This mixed strain is generally referred to as a Shepherd Bernard or German Saint.
2. How big does a St. Bernard German Shepherd blend get?
They’re large to giant-sized tykes, generally weighing 90-140 lbs and standing 24-30 inches tall.
3. Are St. Bernard German Shepherd mixes good family types?
Yes! They’re pious, gentle, and defensive, making them great for families. Still, their large size means supervision is required around small children.
4. Are they aggressive?
No, they aren’t naturally aggressive. Still, they can be defensive (inherited from the German Cowgirl side) and need early socialization to help with over-guardedness.
5. How important is exercise? Do they need it?
They bear 45-60 minutes of daily exercise, including walks, playtime, and internal stimulation.
6. Do they exfoliate a lot?
Yes! They’ve a double fleece and exfoliate relatively quickly, with heavier slipping during seasonal changes.
7. What’s their lifetime?
On average, they live 8-12 times longer, depending on genetics and health care.
8. Are they easy to train?
They’re intelligent but can be stubborn (especially from the St. Bernard side). Positive underpinning training works best.
9. What are the common health problems in this blend?
> Hip dysplasia & Elbow dysplasia
> Bloat (GDV)
> Heart conditions
> Skin Disinclinations
10. Can they live in an apartment?
Not ideal. They thrive in homes with a yard due to their large size and energy needs.
