Cost of Owning a Saint Bernard in Illinois (2026)
Prices adjusted for Illinois cost of living — 3% above the national average
Illinois Cost of Living
Chicago-area dog owners pay premium prices for boarding, grooming, and daycare. Downstate Illinois is significantly more affordable.
Illinois vet costs vary significantly — Chicago runs 20–25% above national average while rural areas run below.
Monthly Cost
$346–$633
in Illinois
First Year
$5,699–$11,171
inc. setup costs
Lifespan
8-10 years
average
Monthly Costs in Illinois
| Category | Low Est. | High Est. |
|---|---|---|
| FoodMassive breed - 8-14 cups of quality large/giant breed kibble daily. Buy 40-50 lb bags in bulk. | $155 | $258 |
| Vet RoutineAnnual exam and preventive care. Orthopedic and cardiac monitoring important | $52 | $82 |
| GroomingSmooth coat: easier. Rough coat: brush 2-3x/week, professional grooming every 8-10 weeks ($80-$130) | $31 | $82 |
| Drool Management SuppliesDrool rags, floor cleaning supplies, and bandanas are a real ongoing cost for Saint owners | $15 | $31 |
| Pet InsuranceEssential - bloat, hip dysplasia, dilated cardiomyopathy, and eye conditions are significant risks | $93 | $180 |
| Total Monthly | $346 | $633 |
One-Time Setup Costs in Illinois
| Item | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Crate (XXL) | $155 | $309 |
| Extra-Large Orthopedic Dog Bed | $103 | $258 |
| Extra-Large Collar, Harness & Leash | $52 | $124 |
| Spay / Neuter | $361 | $721 |
| Prophylactic Gastropexy (strongly recommended) | $412 | $1,236 |
| Puppy & Obedience Classes (essential for giant breeds) | $258 | $515 |
| Initial Vet Visit & Vaccines | $206 | $412 |
| Total Setup | $1,547 | $3,575 |
About Saint Bernard Ownership in Illinois
Saint Bernards are gentle, patient, and famously drool-prone gentle giants. Their enormous size means feeding, medication, and equipment costs are among the highest of any breed. Here is the complete breakdown.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Saint Bernard eat per month?
A fully grown Saint Bernard eats 8-14 cups of food per day. A 50-lb bag of quality large-breed kibble ($80-$120) typically lasts 2-3 weeks. Monthly food costs range from $150-$250. Buying in bulk from warehouse stores can save significantly.
Are Saint Bernards expensive to own?
Yes - Saint Bernards are among the most expensive dog breeds to own on a monthly basis. Food alone costs $150-$250/month, insurance runs $90-$175/month, and their large size means every medication, procedure, and supply costs more. Budget $400-$700 per month, more in health-challenged years.
What are the main health problems in Saint Bernards?
Saint Bernards are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia ($3,500-$7,000/joint for surgery), bloat/GDV ($3,000-$7,000 emergency), dilated cardiomyopathy, entropion (eye condition), and various orthopedic issues related to their extreme size and rapid growth. Prophylactic gastropexy is strongly recommended.
Do Saint Bernards really drool that much?
Yes - Saint Bernards are one of the heaviest-drooling breeds in the world. Drool strings, flying drool during head-shaking, and drool-coated walls are a reality of Saint Bernard ownership. Many owners keep "drool rags" (damp towels) strategically placed around the home. This is simply a lifestyle consideration, not a medical issue.
Compare with national average
See base costs without state adjustment
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Cost estimates are adjusted using regional cost-of-living indices and veterinary cost surveys. Individual costs vary. This information is for budgeting guidance only.