Saint Bernard
Working Group (AKC) · Switzerland — originally bred by monks at the Great St. Bernard Hospice in the Western Alps in the 17th century for rescue work. · Giant
Also known as: St. Bernard, Alpine Mastiff, Barry Dog, Saint
Breed Group
Working Group (AKC)
Size
Giant
Height
Males: 28-30 inches, Females: 26-28 inches at the shoulder
Weight
Males: 140-180 lbs, Females: 120-140 lbs
Life Expectancy
8-10 years
Origin
Switzerland — originally bred by monks at the Great St. Bernard Hospice in the Western Alps in the 17th century for rescue work.
Energy Level
Moderate — happy with daily walks and casual play, but quite lazy indoors as adults.
Trainability
Trainable — responds well to consistent, positive reinforcement training, though their stubborn streak and massive size require early socialization.
Description
The Saint Bernard is a majestic giant known worldwide for its heroic history in the Swiss Alps, intelligent and gentle expression, and massive, muscular build. Despite their imposing size, they are loving, affectionate family companions.
Key Features
Massive head with wrinkled brow, drooping ears, soulful dark eyes, a powerful muscular body, and a distinctive white and red/brown coat pattern.
Coat Type
Comes in shorthaired and longhaired varieties. Dense, weather-resistant double coat with heavy shedding, especially during seasonal changes.
Coat Colors
White with patches of red, brown, or brindle. Typically features a dark mask around the eyes and a white chest, feet, and tail tip.
Temperament
Gentle, friendly, patient, and deeply loyal. Known as a 'gentle giant' with a calm disposition, though they can be protective when necessary.
Good with Children
Excellent — famously patient and tolerant with children, though supervision is always required due to their massive size.
Good with Other Dogs
Good — generally friendly and sociable with other dogs when properly socialized.
Grooming Needs
Moderate to High — regular brushing weekly (daily during shedding seasons), routine ear cleaning, and frequent wiping of drool.
Exercise Requirements
Moderate — daily walks and free play in a securely fenced yard are sufficient, avoiding intense exercise in hot weather.
Health Considerations
Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, gastric torsion (bloat), heart conditions, and entropion. Regular veterinary check-ups and health screenings are essential.
Living Conditions
Best suited for homes with plenty of space and a fenced yard. They struggle in hot, humid climates due to their thick coats and are prone to overheating.
History & Origin
Descended from the ancient Molosser dogs brought by the Romans, they were bred by monks at the Great St. Bernard Hospice to locate and rescue lost travelers in treacherous Alpine snowstorms.
Interesting Facts
The most famous Saint Bernard was Barry, who reportedly saved over 40 people in the 19th century. They never actually carried small barrels of brandy around their necks; that myth originated from a painting.
Similar Breeds
Mastiff, Newfoundland, and Leonberger. Distinguished by their specific red-and-white coloration and distinct facial mask.