Saint Bernewfie
The Saint Bernewfie is a cross between the Saint Bernard and the Newfoundland. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Saint Bernewfie. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is a giant breed that commands attention with its impressive size and powerful build. Males typically stand 28 to 30 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 140 and 180 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 26 to 28 inches and 120 to 140 pounds. Some exceptional individuals can exceed 200 pounds, placing them among the heaviest of all domestic dog breeds. The breed possesses a massive, muscular body with a broad chest and strong legs that reflect its heritage as a rescue dog in the treacherous Swiss Alps. Their heads are large and imposing with wide skulls that give a distinctive blocky appearance, complemented by a short muzzle set about an inch below expressive brown eyes. Saint Bernards come in two coat varieties: shorthaired and longhaired, with the shorthaired variety being preferred historically by the monks who developed the breed at the Saint Bernard Hospice. Both coat types feature a dense double coat that provides excellent insulation in cold weather, a necessary adaptation given their mountain origins. The coat is predominantly white with markings that can include red, mahogany, brindle, or various shades of brown. Most Saint Bernards display the characteristic dark mask around their eyes and ears, adding to their noble expression. The skin on their forehead is moderately wrinkled, particularly when the dog is alert or attentive, enhancing their thoughtful appearance. The breed's physical features include long, floppy ears that lie flat against the head, a wide and open nose with well-developed nostrils, and powerful jaws with droopy jowls that contribute to their tendency to drool significantly. Their deep-set, kindly eyes convey the gentle nature that lies beneath their imposing exterior. Saint Bernards carry their thick, long tail low, raising it level with the back when excited or in motion. Despite their enormous size, they move with surprising grace and dignity, demonstrating a smooth, easy gait that belies their massive frame. The breed is not built for speed or extended physical exertion and requires careful management to prevent overheating, particularly in warm weather conditions.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Saint Bernards are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them trainable despite occasional stubborn streaks. They require early socialization and consistent, positive training methods to develop into well-mannered adults. The breed has relatively low energy levels as adults, preferring leisurely activities over vigorous exercise, though they still need regular walks to maintain their health. They do not tolerate being left alone for extended periods and can develop separation anxiety if frequently isolated from their family. These sociable dogs are happiest when included in daily family activities and given opportunities to demonstrate their loyal, affectionate nature.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Cancer, particularly osteosarcoma, occurs at higher rates in Saint Bernards than in many other breeds, with genetic factors playing a significant role. Wobbler syndrome, also known as cervical spondylomyelopathy, is a neurological condition affecting the neck vertebrae and spinal cord that can cause an unsteady gait. Eye problems including entropion and ectropion, where the eyelids roll inward or outward respectively, may require surgical correction. The breed is also prone to epilepsy and can develop skin conditions in their facial folds if not kept clean and dry. Saint Bernards have a relatively short lifespan of 8 to 10 years and are particularly susceptible to overheating due to their size and thick coat.
Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a giant working breed renowned for its impressive size, tremendous strength, and distinctive water-ready build. Males typically stand approximately 28 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 130 and 150 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at around 26 inches and 100 to 120 pounds. However, many individuals exceed these standards considerably, with some males surpassing 200 pounds. The breed record holder reportedly weighed an astounding 260 pounds. Despite their massive size, Newfoundlands possess a well-balanced, muscular frame that moves with surprising grace and power, reflecting their heritage as water rescue dogs and fishing assistants. The Newfoundland's most remarkable physical adaptation for water work is its webbed feet, which function like paddles to provide efficient propulsion through water. Combined with a large lung capacity and powerful swimming stroke, these features make the breed one of the most capable water dogs in existence. The head is massive and broad, with a pronounced but not abrupt stop and a relatively short, clean-cut muzzle. Small, triangular ears are set well back on the head and lie close when relaxed. The eyes are relatively small, deep-set, and dark brown in color, conveying an expression of benevolence and intelligence that characterizes the breed. The Newfoundland's double coat is dense and water-resistant, providing essential protection during water rescues in frigid conditions. The outer coat is coarse, moderately long, and straight or slightly wavy, while the undercoat is soft and dense. The coat is particularly thick around the neck, forming a noticeable mane. Accepted colors include black, which is the most common, as well as brown, gray, and the distinctive Landseer pattern featuring a white base with black markings. The breed's thick tail hangs down when at rest but is carried out, never curled over the back, when the dog is in motion or alert. Regular grooming is essential to maintain the coat's health and manage the considerable shedding.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Despite their enormous size, Newfoundlands possess relatively low energy levels and are content with moderate daily exercise. They are intelligent dogs who are eager to please, making them generally easy to train through positive reinforcement methods. However, their response time may be somewhat slower than more quick-reacting breeds, reflecting their thoughtful rather than impulsive nature. Newfoundlands typically get along exceptionally well with other pets when properly introduced and rarely display aggression toward other animals. Their love of water is legendary, and many Newfoundlands will seek out any opportunity to swim. The breed is characteristically quiet, seldom barking without good reason, which makes them surprisingly good apartment dogs despite their size, provided they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Osteosarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer, occurs at elevated rates in Newfoundlands and other giant breeds. Cystinuria, a urinary condition that can cause stone formation, affects the breed and requires dietary management and monitoring. Hypothyroidism and Von Willebrand's disease, a bleeding disorder, should be screened for in breeding dogs. Various skin conditions including acral lick dermatitis, allergies, seborrhea, and ichthyosis can affect the breed's thick coat and skin. Newfoundlands have a life expectancy of 8 to 10 years, with studies indicating that approximately 62 percent die by age 10. Owners should also be prepared for the breed's considerable drooling and heavy seasonal shedding, which require regular management.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Saint Bernewfie may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Saint Bernard and Newfoundland to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.