How much does a St. Bernard cost per year?

After the first year, a St. Bernard costs approximately $3,850 per year on average, covering food ($1,335), vet care ($790), grooming ($575), and insurance ($920).

largedog8 yr lifespan

How Much Does a St. Bernard Cost?

Q: Is a St. Bernard expensive to own?

St. Bernards have a lifetime ownership cost of approximately $32,980 over 8 years. The US national average for dog ownership is around $2,600/yr, so St. Bernards are above average in annual running costs.

The St. Bernard's typical 8-year lifespan and large size both factor into its long-term cost of ownership. As a giant breed, they're more prone to joint and heart issues, and their size means medications and procedures cost more too. Everything from food to crates to medication tends to cost more simply because of this breed's size. Initial costs cover adoption or purchase, a first vet visit, and the basic supplies every new pet needs.

Get My Personalised Estimate

$6,030

First Year Total

inc. one-time setup

$3,850

Annual Ongoing

per year from year 2

$32,980

Lifetime Estimate

over 8 years

First Year Costs (inc. setup)

Purchase / Adoption Fee

Varies by breeder vs rescue

$340

Initial Vet Visit & Vaccinations

Spay/neuter, microchip, health check

$725

Starter Supplies

Bed, crate, collar, bowls, toys

$925

Training Classes

Basic obedience recommended

$420

First Year Food

$1,335

First Year Vet Care

$790

First Year Grooming

$575

First Year Insurance

$920

Total$6,030

Annual Ongoing Costs (Year 2+)

Food

$1,335

Vet Care

$790

Grooming

$575

Pet Insurance

$920

Supplies & Toys

$230

Total$3,850

Budget for emergencies

We recommend keeping $3,000 in a dedicated emergency fund for unexpected vet bills.

About the St. Bernard

The St. Bernard is a large-sized dog breed with an average lifespan of 8 years. First-year ownership costs typically run around $6,030, which includes the purchase or adoption fee, initial vet visits, vaccinations, starter supplies, and the first year of food, grooming, and insurance.

From year two onwards, ongoing costs average $3,850 per year. The largest recurring expense is food at $1,335/year, followed by vet care at $790/year. Grooming is a significant cost for this breed at $575/year, reflecting their coat maintenance requirements.

Over a 8-year lifespan, the total estimated cost of owning a St. Bernard is approximately $32,980. These figures are US national averages — your actual costs will vary based on your city, lifestyle, and whether you use a breeder or rescue organisation. Use our calculator above to get a personalised estimate.

How to save on St. Bernard costs

→Adopt, don't shop. Rescue organisations typically charge $150–$400 compared to $340+ from breeders. Adult dogs from shelters are often already vaccinated and desexed.
→Get pet insurance early. St. Bernards insured as puppies or kittens typically see lower premiums and fewer exclusions. At $920/year, insurance can save thousands on a single emergency.
→Buy food in bulk. Premium food for a large dog costs $1,335/year on average. Buying 15–20kg bags and comparing brands can cut this by 20–30%.
→Learn basic grooming. Professional grooming costs $575/year for this breed. Learning to brush and bathe at home between professional appointments can halve this cost.
→Build an emergency fund. We recommend $3,000 in a dedicated pet savings account. A single emergency surgery can cost $3,000–$8,000 without insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a St. Bernard cost?

A St. Bernard typically costs $6,030 in the first year, including the purchase or adoption fee ($340), initial vet visits ($725), supplies ($925), and the first year of food, grooming, and insurance. Annual ongoing costs from year two are approximately $3,850/year.

How much does a St. Bernard cost per month?

After the first year, a St. Bernard costs approximately $321/month on average. This covers food ($111/month), vet care ($66/month), grooming ($48/month), and insurance ($77/month).

Is a St. Bernard expensive to own?

St. Bernards cost approximately $3,850/year to maintain — above the US national average of around $2,600/year for dog ownership. Over their 8-year lifespan, total costs come to around $32,980.

How much does a puppy St. Bernard cost?

A St. Bernard puppy from a reputable breeder typically costs $340. Rescue or shelter adoption fees are usually $150–$400 and often include initial vaccinations and desexing. Remember the purchase price is just one part of the first-year cost of $6,030.