Saint Berdoodle: The Ultimate Guide to This Designer Dog

The Saint Berdoodle is a crossbreed between a Saint Bernard and a Poodle. This mixed dog is known for its friendly and affectionate personality, as well as its large size and curly coat. Saint Berdoodles are becoming increasingly popular among dog lovers due to their unique appearance and lovable nature. But before you start searching for Saint Berdoodle puppies for sale in your area, make sure you know about the special needs this mixed breed may have.

One of the most notable characteristics of the Saint Berdoodle is its size. These dogs can weigh anywhere from 70 to 150 pounds and stand up to 30 inches tall at the shoulder. This calls for going the extra mile to preserve orthopedic health, like giving them quality joint supplements.

Despite their large stature, Saint Berdoodles are gentle giants known for their patience and affection towards children and other animals. We have consulted experts and sources such as Saint Berdoodle: Saint Berdoodle Complete Owners Manual for everything you want to know about these delightful giants.

Due to their size, Saint Berdoodles require plenty of exercise and space to move around. They are moderately active dogs that enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and swimming. They are also great with children and other pets, making them a great addition to any family.

It’s easy to confuse Saint Berdoodles with Bernedoodles, which are two entirely different mixes. The latter is a mix between the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle, which we cover in the linked article. 

What is a Mini Saint Berdoodle?

A Mini Saint Berdoodle is a smaller version of the Saint Berdoodle breed, which is a cross between a Saint Bernard and a Poodle. They are typically bred by crossing a Miniature Poodle with a Saint Bernard or a Saint Berdoodle. 

Mini Saint Berdoodles are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, as well as their intelligence and loyalty. Remember that to get a miniature Berpoo, breeders likely breed their dogs back a lot more to the Poodle. This means more allergy-friendly coats, but it also means a much more active and energetic dog with a temperament closer to Poodle than a Saint Bernard.

This means mini Saint Berdoodles are highly sensitive, energetic, and intelligent. They can also be more prone to anxiety issues.

History of the Saint Berdoodle

The Saint Berdoodle is a hybrid dog breed that originated in the United States. This breed is a mix between Saint Bernard and the Poodle, resulting in a large, fluffy, and friendly dog that is popular among families. The Saint Berdoodle has become increasingly popular over the years due to its friendly nature, intelligence, and adorable appearance.

Other names include:

• St. Berpoo;
• Saint Berpoo; and
• St. Berdoodle.

F1 vs. F1b St. Berdoodles: A Brief Look at the Doodle Generations

When it comes to Saint Berdoodle breeding, there are two main generations: F1 and F1b. An F1 Saint Berdoodle is the first generation of the breed and is produced by breeding a purebred Saint Bernard with a purebred Poodle. F1b Saint Berdoodles, on the other hand, are produced by breeding (back crossing) an F1 Saint Berdoodle with a purebred Poodle.

F1b Saint Berdoodles are often preferred over F1 Saint Berdoodles because they have a higher percentage of Poodle genetics, which makes them less prone to shedding and more hypoallergenic. In other orders, because they are 75% Poodle they tend to inherit a low-shedding Poodle coat. 

Remember that F1b St. Berdoodles can also mean that it was backcrossed to a Saint Bernard, which will lead to a much bigger dog with a Saint Bernard’s loving and laid back temperament. However, their coats will not be hypoallergenic, even if they do shed less than the Saint Bernard.

F1 Saint Berdoodles can have varying degrees of shedding, depending on which parent they take after.

F2 (multigenerational) St. Berdoodles refer to mixes of two F1 Saint Berdoodles. F3 mixes refer to breeding two F2 Saint Berpoos, and the list continues. We cover generations in our article on F1B Goldendoodles.

Physical Characteristics of the Saint Berdoodle

How Big Does a Full-Grown Saint Berdoodle Get?

The Saint Berdoodle is a large breed of dog that can grow to 28 to 30 inches( 71 to 76 cm) tall and weigh between 70 and 120 pounds (31 to 54 kg). Their size can vary depending on the size of their Poodle parent, and the mixes are mostly categorized as large or giant dogs.

How Big Does a Mini Saint Berdoodle Get?

Miniature Saint Berdoodles are a smaller version of the standard Saint Berdoodle. They are bred by crossing a Saint Bernard with a Miniature Poodle. Mini Saint Berdoodles can grow up to 18 inches tall and weigh between 30 and 60 pounds.

What does St. Berdoodle look like?

Saint Berdoodles have a sturdy and muscular build, with a broad head and a solid, well-muscled neck. Most of them look like they have the face of a Poodle with their rounded skulls and furry faces but on the heavier body of a Saint Bernard. 

They have large heads with floppy ears and friendly expressions. Their eyes are usually dark and almond-shaped. They can have Bernard’s droopy flews, but those with more Poodle in them have normal-sized lips. 

The Saint Berdoodle has a soft and fluffy coat that can be curly or wavy. Their coat can come in a variety of colors, such as black, white, brown, and gray. 

St. Berpoo Coat Types & Colors

The Saint Berdoodle can have different types of coats depending on their Poodle parent. They can have curly, wavy, or straight cats. Their coat can be solid, although most are tri-colored like the Bernard parent. 

Common colors include:

• Black;
• Apricot;
• Brown;
• Black and white;
• Brown and white; and
• Gray and white.

They are known for their hypoallergenic coat, which makes them a great option for people with allergies.

Saint Berdoodle Temperament, Personality, & Intelligence

Saint Berdoodles are known for their friendly, gentle, and affectionate temperament. They are social dogs that love to be around people and other animals, making them great family pets. They are also known for their intelligence, which makes them easy to train.

If they take after their Saint Bernard parent, they are more laid back and less active than most doodle. This means they are calm dogs that are fairly easy to manage when they are mature. However, they can be quite rambunctious as puppies.

Due to their Saint Bernard and Poodle heritage, Saint Berdoodles have a mix of personality traits. They are loyal and protective like their Saint Bernard parent but also playful and energetic like their Poodle parent. They are also known to be good with children and other pets, making them great family dogs.

In terms of intelligence, Saint Berdoodles are considered to be highly intelligent dogs. They are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. They are also known for their problem-solving abilities, which makes them great at tasks like finding hidden treats or toys.

These are large-to-giant dogs, so early training is essential. Once these dogs are adults, problems like pulling on the leash or jumping on people could become dangerous. So make sure they grow up and they don’t learn any behaviors as puppies that could be a problem in a 150 pound adult dog.

Health and Lifespan of the St. Berdoodle

The Saint Berdoodle is a relatively healthy breed with a lifespan of 8 to 12 years. However, like all breeds, they are prone to certain health issues that owners should be aware of.

The most common health problem in Saint Berdoodles is hip dysplasia, where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly. This can cause pain and mobility issues and may require surgery to correct. 

Studies have shown that the Saint Bernard parents are among the most affected breed by dysplasia. The issue is common in larger breeds and mixes like Aussie Mountain Doodles. 

 Other potential health issues include:

• Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) – Also known as bloat, this is a potentially life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists, leading to rapid swelling, pain, and potential blockage of blood flow. Immediate veterinary attention is necessary if bloat is suspected.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) – PRA is a group of genetic eye disorders that cause progressive degeneration of the retina, leading to vision loss and eventual blindness.
• Addison’s Disease: This is a hormonal disorder where the adrenal glands don’t produce enough cortisol and aldosterone, resulting in symptoms like fatigue, weakness, weight loss, and gastrointestinal issues.
• Von Willebrand’s Disease (vWD) – vWD is an inherited blood clotting disorder that affects the platelets, potentially leading to excessive bleeding or difficulty with blood clotting.
• Epilepsy – Epilepsy in dogs can cause recurring seizures, which can range in severity and frequency.
• Heart conditions like arrhythmia, where there’s a problem in the heart’s rhythm. Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM refers to an enlarged heart.
• Neurological conditions like vestibular disease, which affects the dog’s balance.
• Moderate issues like allergies, obesity, skin issues, and dental and ear infections. 

How to Groom a Saint Berdoodle

Grooming a Saint Berdoodle is an important part of their care routine. Their thick, curly coat requires regular maintenance to keep them healthy and free of mats and tangles. Here are some tips on how to groom your Saint Berdoodle:

Brushing

Saint Berdoodles have a thick, curly coat that requires daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles and to keep their coat glossy and in good condition. A slicker brush and a metal comb are recommended for grooming. 

Start by using the slicker brush to remove any loose hair and tangles. Then, use the metal comb to work through any remaining mats. Remember, many Doodle dogs don’t have properly managed coats and Doodle owners are not always informed about proper coat care. Make sure you are ready for plenty of intensive grooming if you want a giant Doodle like the Saint Berdoodle.

Bathing

Bathing should be done as needed, but not too frequently, as it can strip the coat of its natural oils. Use a dog-specific shampoo and conditioner to keep the coat clean and healthy. Make sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid any residue left behind. After bathing, use a towel to dry the coat and a blow dryer on a low setting to finish drying.

Trimming

Trimming may be necessary to keep the coat at a manageable length and to prevent matting. A professional groomer can help with this task, but it can also be done at home with proper tools and techniques. Use scissors to trim any areas that are too long or tangled, but be careful not to cut too close to the skin.

Nails, Teeth and Ears

Regular nail trimming and ear cleaning with a recommended canine ear cleanser are also important parts of grooming. Nails should be trimmed every 4-6 weeks, and ears should be cleaned weekly to prevent infections. Use a dog-specific nail trimmer and ear-cleaning solution to care for these areas properly.

Dental care is just as vital for life-long health, so don’t forget to keep up with their oral hygiene with products like a canine mouth rinse.

What Should a Saint Berdoodle Eat?

Saint Berdoodles are a large breed of dog, which means they require a lot of food for large to giant dogs to fuel their bodies.

 However, it is important not to overfeed them as obesity can cause health problems as well as GDV. A Saint Berdoodle’s diet should consist of a protein-dense (25 to 30%) dog food that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Saint Berdoodles are prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and bloat, so it is important to choose a dog food formulated to promote joint health and prevent digestive problems with canine probiotics. 

Monitoring their calorie intake and adjusting their diet to maintain a healthy weight is also important. It’s especially important that St. Berdoodles are not lean while they are growing up because excessive weight gain and growing too fast can make joint problems worse when they are too big. In fact, medical research shows that calorie restricted diet for growing large and giant breed pups can really help reduce joint problems later in life.

St. Berdoodle as a Family Pet

Saint Berdoodle is a breed that makes an excellent family pet due to its friendly and gentle nature. They are known for their loyalty and love towards their family members, making them a great addition to any household.

One of the key benefits of owning a Saint Berdoodle is their adaptability to different living situations. They can thrive in both large homes and small spaces as long as they receive the necessary exercise and attention. Saint Berdoodles are also great with children and other pets, making them a perfect choice for families with multiple pets.

While Saint Berdoodles are generally low-maintenance dogs, they do require daily grooming to properly maintain their thick, curly coat. This breed sheds minimally, which is great for families with allergies or who prefer a cleaner home. However, remember that Saint Berdoodles can be prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and bloat, so regular vet checkups are recommended.

Is the Saint Berpoo Right for Me?

A suitable home for Saint Berdoodles:

1. People who prefer larger dogs;
2. Moderately active homes (Berdoodles need lots of low-impact activity like swimming and long walks);
3. A home with a yard;
4. Adult supervision where there are children; 
5. Allergic households because they’re more allergy-friendly than other breeds; and
6. Home where there’s someone around most times. 

Are Saint Berdoodles Good with Children?

Saint Berdoodles are generally great with children. They are known for being gentle and patient, making them an excellent choice for families with young kids. However, it’s important to note that Saint Berdoodles are large dogs and may accidentally knock over small children. As with any dog, it’s important to supervise interactions between children and Saint Berdoodles.

Finding a Saint Berdoodle Breeder

Finding a reputable Saint Berdoodle breeder can be challenging. It’s important to do research and find a breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. Look for breeders who perform health screenings on their breeding dogs and who are willing to answer any questions you may have about the breed. Additionally, it’s important to visit the breeder in person and see the dogs’ living conditions.

Adopting a Saint Berdoodle from a Rescue

Adopting a Saint Berdoodle from a rescue can be a great option for those who want to give a dog a second chance. If you’re looking for a Doodle to add to your family, we highly recommend that you adopt one that needs a home. Contacting rescue organizations like IDOG Rescue, Inc. A rescue group that specializes in Poodle crossbreeds, can put you on the right path to finding the perfect Saint Berdoodle for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

The Saint Berdoodle is a wonderful companion for those looking for a loyal, intelligent, and playful dog. This breed is a great choice for families with children, as they are known for being gentle and patient with kids. They are also excellent watchdogs, thanks to their protective nature and size.

One thing to remember is that Saint Berdoodles require a fair amount exercises and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They thrive on interactive playtime and long walks, so prospective owners should be prepared for an active lifestyle. Additionally, grooming can be challenging, as their long, curly coats require regular brushing and trimming.

Meet Your Experts

Tamsin De La Harpe

Author

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.