St. Bernard
Also known as St.bernhardshund - Bernhardiner · Chien du Mont Saint-Bernard - Saint-Bernard · St. Bernhardshund (Bernhardiner) · San Bernardo
Switzerland, Molossian type
- Size
- Giant
- Height
- 65–90 cm
- Weight
- 54–82 kg
- Life expectancy
- 8–10 yrs
- Gentle
- Patient
- Friendly
- Calm
- Good with family
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the St. Bernard
The St. Bernard is a giant working dog from the Swiss Alps, associated with the hospice at the Great St Bernard Pass, where dogs helped travellers in snow. It is massive and powerful with a broad head, expressive face and loose skin. It has two coat types, short-haired and long-haired, usually red with white markings.
Temperament
Gentle, patient and friendly, usually good with children and other pets when well socialised. It can be slow to mature and needs consistent training from an early age because of its size.
Exercise
Moderate exercise is enough, such as daily walks at an easy pace. Avoid strenuous exercise in puppies and in hot weather.
Grooming
Brush a few times a week, daily in the moult, especially for the long coat. Wipe the face and jowls, which can drool, and keep skin folds clean.
Care & wellbeing
Large size means joint care and weight control are important. Heat is hard on a heavy-coated dog, so provide shade and cool spaces. Lifespan is shorter than many breeds.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 68 kg adult- Water
- 2.7 L–4.1 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 2,650 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 30–60 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a St. Bernard
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A giant mountain dog developed around the Great St Bernard Pass hospice in the Swiss Alps. Monks kept the dogs for guarding and for finding and rescuing travellers lost in snow. It is gentle and calm, but large and prone to drooling.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Bloat (gastric torsion)
- Heart disease
- Eyelid problems
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scores
- Eye tests
- Heart screening
Not every St. Bernard is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Highest than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 8–10 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a St. Bernard right for you?
Could suit
- Calmer households and owners who prefer gentle walks
Think twice if
- Space, food and vet costs are a concern — giant breeds need more of all three
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a St. Bernard get?
Adult St. Bernards typically stand about 65–90 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 54–82 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do St. Bernards live?
Typically 8–10 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a St. Bernard need?
As a guide, around 30–60 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a St. Bernard need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are St. Bernards easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do St. Bernards shed?
Quite a lot. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control — expect more around spring and autumn.
Are St. Bernards good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a St. Bernard live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do St. Bernards have?
The breed can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat (gastric torsion), heart disease. Not every St. Bernard is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Switzerland
- Type
- Molossian type
- Internationally recognised
- 1954