Saint Bernard
Quick Summary
Gentle giants ideal for patient families with space. Key traits include rescue heritage and calm demeanor. Best for experienced owners who can manage size-related needs and expenses.
Contents
Weight Range
120-180 lbs
♂ Male: 140-180 lbs
♀ Female: 120-140 lbs
Height Range
66-76 inches
♂ Male: 28-30"
♀ Female: 28-30"
Life Expectancy
8-10 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #65
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Working Group
Originally bred for Mountain rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps during the 17th-19th centuries, saving countless lives at the Saint Bernard Pass hospice
Popularity
#48
Very popular breed choice
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 28"-30" |
| Female Height | 28"-30" |
| Male Weight | 140-180 lbs |
| Female Weight | 120-140 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 5/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
High initial purchase price ($1,500-$3,000). Monthly costs include significant food expenses ($100-150), grooming ($50-70), and preventive healthcare. Emergency vet care can be costly due to size.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Gentle giants with calm, patient dispositions. Moderate energy levels require regular but not excessive exercise. Excellent with children and other pets, though supervision needed due to size. Natural protective instincts without aggression.
Social Needs
Saint Bernards thrive on family interaction and shouldn't be left alone for extended periods. They generally get along well with other pets and need regular socialization. Can tolerate 4-6 hours alone if properly trained.
Breed Overview
Saint Bernards are majestic giants with powerful, muscular bodies and distinctive broad heads. Their thick double coat comes in white with red, brown, or brindle markings. Known for their gentle expression and patient demeanor, these dogs combine impressive strength with remarkable gentleness. Their deep chest, strong legs, and massive frame reflect their historical role as mountain rescue dogs.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Gentle and patient with children
- ✓ Loyal and protective
- ✓ Good-natured temperament
- ✓ Excellent cold weather tolerance
Cons
- ✗ Heavy drooling
- ✗ Expensive to feed and maintain
- ✗ Short lifespan
- ✗ Not suited for hot climates
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Playful, Charming, Inquisitive |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Agreeable |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Saint Bernards require 45-60 minutes of daily exercise split into two sessions. Moderate activities like walking and gentle play are ideal. Avoid strenuous exercise in warm weather due to their size and thick coat.
Diet & Nutrition
Adult Saint Bernards need 4-8 cups of high-quality food daily, divided into 2-3 meals. Special attention to portion control prevents obesity. Large breed-specific formula recommended to support joint health.
Large breed adult formula recommended, 4-8 cups daily divided into 2-3 meals. High-quality protein for muscle maintenance, controlled calcium for joint health. Monitor weight to prevent obesity-related issues.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
These giants need spacious homes with room to move freely. They thrive in cool climates and require access to air conditioning in warmer weather. Yards should be securely fenced.
Minimum space requirements include large rooms for comfortable movement. Ideal setting includes fenced yard and cool resting areas. Can adapt to suburban life with adequate space and exercise.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Developed by monks at the Saint Bernard Hospice in the Swiss Alps, these dogs became legendary for mountain rescues. Their powerful build and weather-resistant coat enabled them to track lost travelers and provide warmth in harsh conditions.
Historical Purpose
Mountain rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps during the 17th-19th centuries, saving countless lives at the Saint Bernard Pass hospice. Renowned for locating and reviving stranded travelers.
Fun Fact
The iconic barrel around their neck was never actually used in rescues - it's a popular myth from paintings!
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Heavy shedding requires regular grooming. Drooling management needed. Exercise moderation in warm weather essential. Joint health supplements often recommended.