Saint Bernard

About

The Saint Bernard is a gentle, loyal, and patient breed that makes a wonderful companion for families who have the space and time to care for a large dog. Their affectionate nature, combined with their history as dedicated rescue dogs, highlights their deep bond with humans. With proper training, socialization, and care, Saint Bernards thrive as loving and protective members of any household.

Breed Size
  • Weight (Male)

    54-90 kg

  • Weight (Female)

    54-90 kg

  • Height (Male)

    66-76 sm

  • Height (Female)

    66-76 sm

Coat
  • Fur Type

    Smooth/Rough/Double

  • Color

    One color

Care
  • Walk

    >30 minutes/day

  • Breed group

    Working Group

  • Breed Size

    XL

  • Demeanor category

    Friendly

Breed Traits
  • Barking
  • Good with young children
  • Drooling
  • Energy level value
  • Grooming frequency value
  • Good with other dogs
  • Trainability
Breeds Club Recognition
  • Trainability Category

    >Agreeable

  • Temperament

    >Playful, Charming, Inquisitive

Description

The Saint Bernard is a large and powerful breed known for its gentle, patient nature and history as a rescue dog. Originating from the Swiss Alps, the breed was developed by monks at the Great St. Bernard Hospice to help locate and rescue travelers stranded in the snow. Their impressive size, strength, and keen sense of smell made them highly effective in saving lives, further solidifying their legendary status as devoted helpers. Saint Bernards typically stand 26 to 30 inches tall at the shoulder and can weigh between 120 to 180 pounds, with males usually being larger. They have a dense, water-resistant coat that comes in two varieties: short-haired and long-haired. Common coat colors include white with red, brindle, or various shades of brown markings. Their large, expressive eyes and gentle facial expression convey a calm and friendly demeanor. The breed is known for its loyal, affectionate, and gentle temperament, making them excellent companions for families. Despite their size, Saint Bernards are known for being great with children due to their protective and nurturing nature. They are typically friendly with other pets and strangers, which makes them more companion animals than guard dogs. Early socialization and training are essential for this large breed to ensure they grow into well-mannered adults. They respond well to positive reinforcement and consistent, gentle guidance. Saint Bernards require regular exercise to stay healthy, but their energy levels are moderate. Daily walks and playtime are usually sufficient, and they do well in homes with space to move around. However, they should not be overexerted in hot weather due to their heavy coats and susceptibility to heat. Grooming a Saint Bernard depends on the coat type, but both short-haired and long-haired varieties need regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Bathing should be done as needed, with more frequent grooming during seasonal shedding periods. Routine ear cleaning, dental care, and nail trimming are also important for maintaining overall health and hygiene. Saint Bernards have a lifespan of around 8 to 10 years and can be prone to certain health issues, including hip and elbow dysplasia, heart conditions, and bloat (gastric torsion). Regular veterinary checkups, a balanced diet, and weight management are essential for promoting their long-term health and well-being.