News and Events

Spring Is Here! Take home one of our available saints today and share this beautiful time of the year with the new l... Read Full Story

Need a trainer in northern Virginia? We recommend Sassafras K9
in Stafford!

Common Medical Problems

If you are thinking about adopting a Saint, or already own one, here are some medical problems common in the breed that you should be aware of.

• BLOAT

  Bloat or Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) is the second leading killer of dogs after cancer, and it is frequently reported in deep-chested dogs such as Saint Bernards and German Shepards. It involves the swelling of the stomach with gas and/or food or water. Stress can be a significant contributing factor as well, and bloat can occur with or without the twisting of the stomach. This is an extremely dangerous syndrome, as bloat can kill in less than hour! Common symptoms are a bloated abdomen, repeated unsuccessful attempts by the dog to vomit, the appearance of distress, and/or very pale gums. Without immediate veterinary intervention, the dog will die. If your dog is experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your regular vet or a 24-emergency vet service immediately!

  For more information on bloat, here are some good links:

  • Bloat in Dogs
  • A Dog Owner's Guide to Bloat
  • About Canine Bloat
  
  

• HIP DYSPLASIA

  Saint Bernards have one of the highest incidences of hip dysplasia, although it is common in all large breed dogs. Abnormal joints may lead to arthritis and pain in the dog. Symptoms do not normally appear to the middle or later years of the dog's life.

  For more information on hip dysplasia, here are some good links:

  • Pet Education - Hip Dysplasia
  • Orthopedic Foundation for Animals - Hip Dysplasia
  • Orthopedic Foundation for Animals - Elbow Dysplasia
  
  

• GROWING BONE DISEASES

  Due to the rapid growth rate of this breed, Saint Bernards are susceptible to a several diseases during growth, including osteochondritis, panosteitis, elbow dysplasia, genu valgum, and abnormal calcification. Any limping during the first 18 months of the Saint's life should be evaluated closely by a veterinarian specializing in orthopedics.

  
  

• OSTEOSARCOMA (BONE CANCER)

  Saint Bernards have a high incidence of bone cancer and tumors near the ends of the long bones. Adult dogs who develop a limp should have x-rays taken to rule out this disease.

  • Canine Osteosarcoma
  • Web MD - Canine Bone Tumors
  
  

• EYE DISORDERS (ENTROPION OR ECTROPION)

  Saint Bernards are susceptible to entropian (an inward rolling of the eyelids that causes irritation of the surface of the eye) and ectropion (an outward rolling of the eyelids). If left untreated, these diseases often cause corneal ulcers and can lead to a loss of vision. Surgery is the only treatment.

  • Entropian
  • Ectropion
  
  

• EPILEPSY

  No one knows exactly how common seizure disorders are, or exactly what causes them. Seizures may result from such things as head injury, high fevor, brain lesions, metabolic disorders, ingestion of cleaning chemicals, or irresponsible breeding. Epilepsy of an unknown origin, or idiopathic epilepsy, usually manifests itself at about 2-4 years of age. It is a manageable disease, and the most common course of treatment is phenobarbital. You should talk with your veterinarian if your Saint starts to have seizures.

  • The Canine Epilepsy Network
  
  

• CARDIAC DISORDERS

  The two most common cardiac disorders in Saint Bernards and other large breeds are cardiomyopathy (deterioration of the heart muscle) and congestive heart failure. Common warning signs are coughing, loss of stamina, unusually labored breathing, and fluid build-up in the abdomen. If your Saint experiences any of these symptoms, you should seek veterinary treatement immediately.

  
  

• SKIN CONDITIONS

  Saint Bernards have thick coats, which makes them prone to infections of the skin such as "hot spots" (localized areas of skin inflammation and infection). Hot spots can be caused by tangled or matted hair, so regular grooming is essential for prevention. Saint Bernards are also prone to eczema and pyoderma. Keeping the Saint's skin clean and dry will help to prevent most of these diseases.

  
  

• DIABETES MELLITUS

  Saints have very high growth hormone levels, so they are more prone to developing diabetes than some smaller dogs. Common symptoms are excessive urination, excessive water consumption, weight loss, cataracts, increased appetite, exercise intolerance, and recurrent infections.

  • Canine Diabetes