The Saint Berdoodle is a mix between the Saint Bernard and the Poodle, usually the Standard variety. This designer dog blends the massive, mellow nature of the Saint Bernard with the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle. The result is a sweet, loyal, and surprisingly intelligent dog that thrives in loving, spacious homes.
They’re affectionate, calm, and excellent with kids—often described as cuddly giants who want nothing more than to be close to their people.
Breed Overview
| Trait | Details |
| Breed Purpose | Companion dog |
| Size | Large to giant |
| Height | 24 to 30 inches (61 to 76 cm) |
| Weight | 70 to 160+ pounds (32 to 73 kg) |
| Lifespan | 10–12 years |
| Coat Type | Wavy or curly, dense and thick |
| Colors | White, cream, black, brown, apricot, red, or a mix |
| Temperament | Gentle, affectionate, protective |
| Energy Level | Moderate |
| Exercise Needs | Daily walks, short hikes or playtime |
| Shedding | Low to moderate |
| Trainability | High, especially with patience |
| Average Price | $1,000 to $3,000 |
| Best For | Families, large homes, allergy-sensitive households |
Where the Mix Came From
Saint Berdoodles are part of the newer wave of Doodle hybrids designed to combine the hypoallergenic benefits of the Poodle with the loving personality of other popular breeds. In this case, breeders aimed to create a low-shedding version of the massive but mellow Saint Bernard.
While not officially recognized by major kennel clubs, Saint Berdoodles are becoming more popular with families who want a large dog that’s good-natured, low-maintenance, and fun to train.
Physical Appearance
These dogs are big—really big. They have a strong, solid frame, a broad head, and expressive eyes that usually scream “gentle giant.” Their ears hang low, and they often have long, fluffy tails.
Most Saint Berdoodles have soft, wavy to curly coats that come in a wide range of colors, often with white or cream base tones mixed with brown, black, or red markings.
Despite their size, they tend to be surprisingly graceful in the home—though you’ll still need space for them to stretch out.
Temperament and Behavior
The Saint Berdoodle is often described as mellow, easygoing, and very affectionate. They’re known for being great with children and gentle with other pets. These dogs don’t have much of a prey drive and are more likely to snuggle than chase.
What you can expect:
- Calm and easy to live with indoors
- Affectionate and bonded closely to their people
- Friendly but protective if they sense a threat
- Not overly vocal, but alert
They thrive on companionship and can get lonely if left alone for long periods. This is not a backyard-only dog—they want to be part of the family.
Family Life and Compatibility
These dogs are excellent family pets. They’re gentle with children, patient with strangers, and often tolerant of other dogs and cats.
Because of their large size, they should always be supervised around small kids, especially when young and still learning boundaries.
They do best in homes with space to move around—large houses with yards or access to outdoor play areas are ideal. If you’re looking for the perfect name for your big dog, explore a list of ideas in the Big Dog Names guide.
Training and Activity
Saint Berdoodles are smart and eager to please, though they may have a stubborn streak on occasion. Early socialization and obedience training are important to help them become well-mannered companions.
Best training methods:
- Use gentle, positive reinforcement
- Be patient—they can be a bit slow to mature
- Keep sessions short and upbeat
They don’t need intense exercise, but regular activity keeps them happy and healthy. Most enjoy:
- Daily walks
- Short hikes or playtime in the yard
- Light training sessions or interactive games
Too much rough activity can be hard on their joints, especially while they’re still growing.
Grooming and Coat Care
Depending on their coat type, grooming needs may range from moderate to high. Curly coats (more Poodle-like) require more frequent brushing and trimming, while wavy or straight coats shed more but may be easier to maintain.
Grooming tips:
- Brush 3–4 times a week
- Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks if curly
- Bathe occasionally or when dirty
- Clean ears regularly to prevent infections
- Trim nails and brush teeth consistently
They’re considered low to moderate shedders and may be suitable for people with mild allergies, though results vary by individual dog.
Health Considerations
Saint Berdoodles are generally healthy but can inherit conditions from both parent breeds. Their large size also brings specific risks. Common concerns include:
- Elbow and hip dysplasia
- Bloat (gastric torsion)
- Eye issues like entropion
- Heart problems
- Joint and mobility concerns in older age
Choose a breeder who performs health screenings and be mindful of keeping your dog at a healthy weight to protect their joints.
Feeding and Nutrition
Due to their size, these dogs need a balanced, large-breed diet with attention to joint health and portion control.
Feeding advice:
- 4 to 6 cups of food per day (based on age, size, and activity)
- Split meals into two to reduce the risk of bloat
- Include glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support
- Avoid overfeeding—these dogs love to eat
Talk with your vet to make sure you’re feeding the right amount for your dog’s specific needs.
Cost and Adoption
Saint Berdoodle puppies from breeders usually cost between $1,000 and $3,000, depending on coat, size, and breeder reputation. Adoption is less common but may be possible through Doodle or large-breed rescues.
Monthly care costs can be higher due to their size, especially when it comes to food and grooming.
Is the Saint Berdoodle Right for You?
This mix is best for people or families who want a calm, affectionate, and easygoing dog—one that’s large in both size and heart.
Good match for:
- Families with space and time for training
- First-time dog owners looking for a gentle companion
- Households with children and other pets
- Anyone who enjoys low-key outdoor activities
Not ideal for:
- People who are away most of the day
- Apartment dwellers
- Those who don’t want regular grooming
If you’re ready for a loving, patient, and people-oriented dog who just so happens to take up half the couch, the Saint Berdoodle could be exactly what you’re looking for. For more guidance on welcoming a new dog into your home, check out the Getting a Dog resource.