Dog Breed Guide – Saint Bernard

The Saint Bernard is one of the most recognizable and beloved giant dog breeds in the world. Originally bred for rescue missions in the Swiss Alps, at the Great Bernard pass hospice built by the Italian monk Bernard of Menthon, these “gentle giants” are famous for their massive size, calm temperament, and unwavering loyalty to their families.

Saint Bernards are also known as Alpine Mountain Dogs or Alpine Cattle Dogs. They are thought to be descendants of molosser-type dogs brought into the Alps by the ancient Romans. Originally, Saint Bernards were the size of German Shepherd dogs but have grown in size as kennel clubs and dog shows placed more emphasis on appearance over the dog’s working ability.

Today, the Saint Bernard remains a popular family companion, known for being patient with children and easy-going in the home. In 2024, they ranked 62 out of 201 in popularity according to the American Kennel Club.

Physical Characteristics

The Saint Bernard is a giant breed dog characterized by a block-shaped body, a fluffy tail, and distinctive droopy skin and ears.

• Size & Weight: Male Saint Bernards typically weigh between 140–180 lbs (63.5–81.6 kg) and stand 28–30 inches tall. Females are slightly smaller, weighing 120–140 lbs (54.4–63.5 kg) and standing 26–28 inches at the withers.
• Coat Types: They come in both long and short-haired varieties. The long coat is dense and may be curly or wavy.
• Coloring: Most commonly brown/red with white markings, or a mahogany brindle with white. You will usually see black shading on the face and ears.
• Eyes: Usually brown, though “icy blue” eyes occur occasionally. They have tight eyelids with a slightly visible nictitating membrane.
• Lifespan: Like most giant breeds, they have a shorter life expectancy of 8 to 10 years.

Temperament and Personality

The Saint Bernard is the definition of a “family dog.” They are calm, patient, and highly affectionate, flourishing when they are around their human companions.

Separation Anxiety: Because they thrive on companionship, they are prone to separation anxiety. They should not be left alone for long periods.

Training Needs: They can be naturally dominant and stubborn, making training a bit of a challenge. It is vital to use firm, consistent leadership to establish who the “leader of the pack” is.

Socialization: While friendly, they can be overprotective of their property and aggressive toward other males of the same breed. Early socialization is mandatory to ensure they coexist peacefully with strangers and other animals.

Space Requirements: Their large frame makes apartment living difficult. They require a roomy yard and plenty of exercise to maintain their health.

Living Conditions and Care

As housemates, Saint Bernards are kind and easy-going. While they are gentle with children, their sheer size means playtime should always be supervised to prevent them from accidentally toppling toddlers.

Grooming: These dogs are heavy shedders. You should brush them at least once a week, increasing the frequency during the spring and fall shedding seasons.

• Pro Tip: Always keep their ears clean and dry to prevent infections, and keep a cloth handy to wipe their mouths after they shake; they are notorious slobberers!

Common Health Conditions

While generally healthy, the Saint Bernard’s large size predisposes them to structural and joint issues. It is crucial to maintain a lean physique to prevent obesity, which can devastate their joints.

• Hip dysplasia: This is a  genetic deformity in which the head of the thigh bone doesn’t fit properly into the hip socket. Over time the constant rubbing on the joint may lead to cases of arthritis which often cause joint stiffness and lameness. Elbow dysplasia is also common. It occurs similarly though affecting the elbow.
• Osteochondrosis : This is a defect in the formation of growing cartilage that causes it to fragment. It usually appears in dogs younger than 1 year.
• Heatstroke
• Cardiomyopathy: These are conditions that affect the heart muscle.
• Cancers such as osteosarcoma (bone cancer)
• Ectropion refers to when the lower eyelids droop or roll out. It can affect one or both eyes. It is often inherited and has a strong tendency to occur in dogs with loose droopy skin.
• Entropion is an abnormality of the eyelids in which the eyelid rolls inward. This inward rolling often causes the hair on the surface of the eyelid to rub against the cornea resulting in pain, corneal ulcers, perforations, or pigment developing on the cornea which can interfere with vision.
• Hypothyroidism occurs when your dog is not secreting enough of the thyroid hormones, causing your dog’s metabolism to slow down.
• Gastric torsion (bloat)  gastric dilation, twisted stomach, or gastric torsion occurs when the stomach becomes overstretched and rotated by excessive gas content. GDV is a life-threatening condition in dogs and requires prompt treatment. It is common in deep-chested breeds such as the Saint Bernard.
• Bloat occurs when there is gas distension without stomach torsion.

Before acquiring a puppy, research reputable breeders with certifications from organizations like Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF), ensuring the parents are screened for genetic defects.  PennHip certification of hips is also accepted.

Conclusion

The Saint Bernard is a loving, easygoing companion perfect for families with plenty of space and time to give. While they require significant grooming and are prone to certain health issues, their loyalty and gentle nature make them one of the most rewarding breeds to own.