St. Bernards 101

Working group

From the hero of the Swiss Alps to the star of several movies, the Saint Bernard is an easily recognizable dog. While the breed is loving and even cuddly with family members, they truly are massive dogs, and they still love the cold. Fans of the breed can be identified by the towels they carry – this is one of the heaviest droolers around.

What we love about St. Bernards

A loving lug of a dog

Energy level
Bark level
  • As needed
Size
26 to 30 inches tall
Lifespan
8 to 10 years
Weight
120 to 180 lbs

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My pet’s health plannerSM

Mature adult St. Bernard

4 years to 5 years

Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions

Hip dysplasia

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

Senior St. Bernard

6+ years

Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Hip dysplasia

Arthritis

St. Bernard puppy

0 to 15 months

Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions

Urinary tract infection

Ear infection

Foreign body ingestion

Young adult St. Bernard

16 months to 3 years

Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Hip dysplasia

Seizures

Mature adult St. Bernard

4 years to 5 years

Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions

Hip dysplasia

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

Senior St. Bernard

6+ years

Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Hip dysplasia

Arthritis

St. Bernard puppy

0 to 15 months

Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions

Urinary tract infection

Ear infection

Foreign body ingestion

Young adult St. Bernard

16 months to 3 years

Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Hip dysplasia

Seizures

Saint Bernard image

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Saint Bernard image

Eight "Beethoven" films starring a Saint Bernard gave the breed a burst of popularity in the later part of the last century -- even though the dog was presented as amusingly and lovingly out of control.

Saint Bernard coat care and colors

Saint Bernards come in both long- and short-haired coat types, but both types are double-coated, making them heavy seasonal shedders. To minimize shedding, comb and bush down to the skin to get as much loose fur as you can. Because of the breed's massive size, acclimate young dogs to nail trims early with praise and treats.

St. Bernard exercise & training

Loves walks

Exercise level

The Saint Bernard doesn't require a huge amount of exercise, but they do enjoy a good long ramble, especially in the winter.

Class clown

Trainability

As with many breeds developed to make decisions on their own, the Saint Bernard may not be especially interested in your guidance. They are, however, devoted dogs and will be willing to listen if you make it worth their while with praise and treats.

St. Bernard fun facts

Top girl names for St. Bernards

100%

of St. Bernards are female

0%

of St. Bernards are male

Top boy names for St. Bernards

Nationwide loves Saint Bernards of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

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