¶Table of Contents
¶Quick Facts
- The Saint Bernard is a Swiss giant breed now kept mainly as a companion, watchdog and farm dog. The breed is also used for tracking and search work.
- Under the breed standard, males should stand 70–90 cm at the withers and females 65–80 cm. The Swedish Kennel Club gives approximately 60–100 kg as a rough guide, but weight is not specified in the breed standard itself.
- The breed comes in short-haired and long-haired varieties. Both have a plentiful undercoat.
- The breed standard describes the temperament as friendly, vigilant and calm to lively. That is an ideal, not a guarantee for every individual.
- Its sheer size affects every part of daily life: space, transport, training, food and veterinary care all require more planning than they would for a smaller dog.
¶Appearance & Coat
The Saint Bernard should be large and powerful, yet harmonious and capable of sound movement. The standard sets an upper height of 90 cm for males and 80 cm for females, although a taller dog may be tolerated if it remains proportionate and moves correctly. This does not remove the upper heights from the standard or make the largest possible dog the ideal. When meeting adult dogs, look at whether they carry their weight without difficulty and move with stability and ease.
The short-haired variety has dense, glossy, close-lying outer hair and a plentiful undercoat. The long-haired variety has a straight, medium-length outer coat, also with a plentiful undercoat; it may be slightly wavy over the croup and hips and forms feathering on the legs. The base colour is white with red patches or a red mantle over the back and flanks. Shades range from clear red to dark red, and a dark mask is desirable.
Coat care should follow the coat type and its actual condition. The long-haired variety needs a thorough brush at least once a week to prevent tangles, and more often when undercoat is coming loose or the coat has become wet and dirty. The short coat should also be checked so that loose undercoat, skin changes and sore areas are noticed. Pay particular attention to dense areas and places where a collar or harness rests. Bathe the dog when it is genuinely dirty rather than following a fixed timetable.
Some Saint Bernards drool heavily, while others drool far less. Meet adult relatives if the amount of drool could affect your choice of breed. Keeping a towel near the water bowl is generally more realistic than expecting a dry-mouthed dog.
¶Temperament & Personality
A typical Saint Bernard should be friendly and vigilant, with a temperament that may range from calm to fairly lively. The Swedish Kennel Club describes the breed as harmonious and family-oriented, but the label “nanny dog” is misleading. No dog should be expected to tolerate climbing, tight hugs or being disturbed while eating or resting.
Around children, the dog's size matters just as much as its temperament. A responsible adult must always manage the interaction, teach the child to let the dog move away and prevent boisterous play in which someone could be knocked over. A calm individual may fit a family with children very well, but assess the actual dog rather than relying on the breed's reputation.
The same care is needed around other dogs and cats. The breed standard makes no promise about compatibility with other species. Make introductions in a controlled way, provide separate resting areas and interrupt play that becomes too physical. Even friendly play can be risky for a small dog or cat because of the difference in size. Ask the breeder how the parents behave around unfamiliar dogs, visitors, handling and unexpected noises. That tells you more than broad claims that the breed is always sociable, quiet or protective.
¶Training & Exercise
Training should begin while the Saint Bernard is still physically manageable. Prioritise walking on a loose lead, greeting people calmly with all four paws on the ground, returning when called and waiting when asked. Also teach the puppy to be comfortable while you inspect its mouth, handle its paws and check its body. Early socialisation, lead training and puppy classes are particularly valuable for a dog that will grow so large. Work in small steps and reward the calm behaviour you want to see again.
The breed needs physical and mental activity every day, but a universal number of minutes would be misleading. The appropriate length and intensity of walks, search games and tracking sessions depend on the dog's age, health and fitness as well as the weather. A relaxed pace does not mean that the dog can do without movement; good muscle condition and safe everyday habits matter for such a heavy body.
Puppies grow rapidly. The Swedish Kennel Club recommends avoiding long walks during the first year. Instead, let the puppy move in shorter sessions, explore different environments and rest between activities. Increase distance and difficulty gradually, according to the individual dog's development rather than a fixed age that is supposed to suit every dog.
Take particular care in warm weather. Thick-coated dogs are among those that can be more heat-sensitive. Exercise during cooler parts of the day, provide water and stop if the dog pants persistently, drools unusually heavily, develops dry red mucous membranes, seems confused or becomes weak. Suspected heatstroke calls for cooling with cool, not ice-cold, water and prompt contact with a vet.
¶Health
In Sweden, the main points to check are joint results, sound construction and whether you can recognise gastric dilatation-volvulus. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, usually shortened to HD and ED, occur in the breed. For a litter to be registered with the Swedish Kennel Club, both parents must have official HD and ED status before mating, and official hip radiographs for a Saint Bernard are not taken before 18 months of age. Known status means that a result has been recorded; it does not automatically mean that the dog is free from dysplasia. Ask to see the actual grades rather than accepting only that the parents have been “tested”. Dogs with ED grade 2 or 3, clinical ED or previous ED surgery are excluded from breeding under current Swedish Kennel Club rules.
The breed is also included in the Swedish Kennel Club's Breed Specific Instructions, or BSI. These flag an oversized and excessively heavy head, too much facial skin, loose lip pockets and eyelids that are loose, oversized or turned inwards. This gives a buyer concrete points to observe: the eyes should look healthy, the skin should not be irritated, the mouth and teeth should function properly, and the dog should move powerfully without difficulty. An impressive appearance must never take priority over function.
A veterinary study found an increased risk of gastric dilatation-volvulus in Saint Bernards. This is an acute, life-threatening emergency in which time matters. Unproductive retching, a rapidly swelling abdomen, restlessness, panting, abdominal pain and difficulty lying down all require immediate contact with a vet. Do not wait to see whether the signs pass. No simple home routine can reduce the risk to zero; discuss the individual dog's risk and any preventive options with your vet.
The rapidly growing puppy needs suitable food in quantities matched to its growth. Follow advice from the breeder and vet, and monitor body condition and movement over time rather than trying to make the puppy grow as quickly as possible.
¶History & Origins
The documented history of the Saint Bernard begins at the Great St Bernard Pass between Switzerland and Italy. A hospice was founded there in the 11th century. Large mountain dogs were kept at the hospice from the mid-17th century for protection and guarding; they appear in pictures from 1695 and in the hospice records from 1707. The dogs later accompanied and searched for travellers who had become lost in snow and fog.
Barry, who lived from 1800 to 1814, became the breed's most famous rescue dog and is credited with more than 40 rescues in Swiss historical accounts. This is a historical attribution, not modern documentation of every individual rescue. The small cask of spirits around the neck is chiefly part of the breed's popular image. Its origin is disputed, and sources within the Swedish Kennel Club describe the cask as a myth rather than equipment used in real rescue work.
In 1867, Heinrich Schumacher began keeping pedigree records for his dogs. When the Swiss stud book opened in 1884, a Saint Bernard named Leon was its first entry, and the Swiss breed club was founded that same year. In 1887 the breed standard was adopted and the Saint Bernard was officially declared a Swiss breed. Today's dogs live mainly as companions and farm dogs, although tracking and search work still connect them to their history.
¶Living with the Breed
Living with a Saint Bernard means planning around the dog's size. A flat is not automatically unsuitable, but the dog must be able to turn, rest and pass through the home without the space becoming cramped. Consider stairs, a lift being out of service, how the dog will get into a car and how you would assist a sick or older dog. Food, sturdy equipment, transport and veterinary care also often cost more than they do for a smaller dog, although no fixed amount can be predicted.
Do not expect a Saint Bernard to stay alone throughout a working day. A young puppy cannot be left alone, and an adult must first be taught gradually to cope on its own. Begin with very brief separations when the dog feels secure and has settled, increasing the time only while it remains calm. A trained adult may cope for a few hours, but no single time limit suits every individual.
Before buying, check three things:
- Ask for the parents' exact official HD and ED results and whether close relatives have had joint or movement problems.
- Ideally, meet adult dogs and observe temperament, eyes, skin, mouth, movement and handling — not only size and head type.
- Make a realistic plan for space, the car, warm weather, time alone, everyday training and assistance if the dog is one day unable to walk unaided.
The breed is best suited to someone who appreciates a very large dog but puts function, calm habits and sharing everyday life ahead of maximum mass or romantic rescue-dog myths.
¶Characteristics
| Characteristic | Value |
|---|---|
| Breed Type | Purebred |
| Aggressiveness | 2/5 |
| Child Friendly | 5/5 |
| Energy | 3/5 |
| Hair Shedding | 5/5 |
| Health | 3/5 |
| Intelligence | 3/5 |
| Grooming Needs | 4/5 |
| Learning Ability | 3/5 |
| Barking Level | 3/5 |
| Height | 65 – 90 cm |
| Weight | 60 – 100 kg |
| Life Expectancy | 8 – 10 years |
¶Frequently Asked Questions
Are Saint Bernards good family dogs and how do they behave with children?
They are typically gentle, patient, and tolerant, which makes them well suited to families with respectful children. Their size is the main concern, since an enthusiastic dog can accidentally knock over a small child. Early training and supervision around young kids are important. When properly socialized, they are usually affectionate and protective without being aggressive.
How much exercise does a Saint Bernard really need?
Despite their size, they are not high endurance dogs and do not need intense exercise. Most do well with one or two moderate walks a day plus some gentle play, especially in cooler parts of the day. Overexercising a young dog can strain growing joints, so activity should be controlled in puppies and adolescents. Mental stimulation and companionship are just as important as physical activity.
Do Saint Bernards drool a lot and can anything be done about it?
Many do drool heavily, especially after drinking, eating, or when they are excited or hot. The loose lips and heavy jowls typical of the breed make drooling unavoidable in most dogs. Owners often keep absorbent cloths handy and may train the dog to be wiped after meals. Choosing individuals from lines with slightly tighter lips can sometimes reduce, but not eliminate, drool.
What are the most common health problems in Saint Bernards?
They are prone to orthopedic issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as cruciate ligament injuries due to their large size. Heart disease, certain cancers, bloat, and eye conditions like entropion are also of concern. Responsible breeders screen for these problems and avoid breeding affected dogs. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding rapid growth in puppies can help lower some risks.
Can a Saint Bernard live comfortably in a small house or apartment?
They can adapt to smaller spaces if they receive enough daily walks and are allowed to rest in a comfortable spot. Their calm indoor nature helps, but their size, shedding, and drool require owners who are realistic about the mess and space they take up. Access to elevators or manageable stairs is important as they age and their joints weaken. Adequate cooling and ventilation are also essential, particularly in warm climates.
How do Saint Bernards handle hot weather?
They are much better suited to cool or cold climates and can struggle in heat. Their heavy coat and large body mass make them prone to overheating, so they should be kept in air conditioning or shade with constant access to water in warm seasons. Exercise should be limited during hot parts of the day and watched carefully for signs of heat stress. A shorter summer trim can help, but the coat should never be shaved to the skin.
What kind of grooming does a Saint Bernard need and do they shed a lot?
They shed heavily, especially during seasonal coat blows in spring and fall. Both shorthaired and longhaired types require regular brushing several times a week to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Routine ear cleaning, nail trimming, and checking skin folds around the mouth and neck are important to prevent infections. Owners should be prepared for noticeable hair and drool on floors and furniture.
How much does it cost to feed a Saint Bernard and what should they eat?
Food costs are significant because of their size, often several times more than for a medium dog. They should be fed a high quality large or giant breed formula that supports joint health and helps prevent overly rapid growth in puppies. Meals are usually divided into two or more smaller feedings per day to reduce the risk of bloat. Keeping them lean is more important than aiming for maximum size.
Are Saint Bernards easy to train and how intelligent are they?
They are intelligent and generally eager to please, but can be slow maturing and a bit stubborn. Short, consistent training sessions that use reward based methods work best. Because of their size, basic obedience and good leash manners are essential starting at a young age. They usually enjoy working closely with their people rather than intense, repetitive drills.
What was the original purpose of Saint Bernards and does it affect their behavior today?
They were developed as rescue and companion dogs in the Swiss Alps, where they helped locate and assist travelers lost in snow. This history contributes to their strong bond with people, watchful nature, and willingness to endure harsh conditions for their family. Many retain an instinct to stay close and check on household members. They are generally more nurturing and protective than high prey driven or independent.¶Comparisons with other breeds
Compare Saint Bernard with other breeds and see the differences in temperament, activity level, and care to make a confident choice. Show all comparisons
