Saint Bernard Dog Breed: Temperament, Size, History & Care

Saint Bernards are known as gentle giants and have a heroic past. The Saint Bernard dog breed is a massive, kind-hearted dog that was originally bred for alpine rescue work. They are now loved for their calm temperament, striking looks, and deep devotion to their people.

Read on to learn more about these gentle giants!

Jump to:

• History of the Saint Bernard Dog
• Saint Bernard Size, Weight, and Appearance
• Saint Bernard Coat Types and Colors
• Saint Bernard Temperament and Personality Traits
• Common Saint Bernard Health Problems
• Saint Bernard Exercise and Activity Needs
• Grooming and Shedding
• Living With a Saint Bernard Dog
• Is a Saint Bernard the Right Dog for You?

History of the Saint Bernard Dog

Saint Bernards are well known for their cask of brandy (a modern myth, by the way), their drooling, and their distinctive brown/black and white coloring.

They were developed over a thousand years ago as search-and-rescue dogs, probably descended from the Tibetan Mastiff.

They worked in teams, searching for stranded travelers, one staying to keep the victim warm, and the other going back to get a rescue team.

It is also said they are more sensitive to storms and avalanches.

Today, they are still used as search-and-rescue dogs, but they are also used to pull carts and as watchdogs.

Saint Bernard Size, Weight, and Appearance

Saint Bernards are big dogs, most average 27 inches tall and 100 to 200 pounds.

They are solid boned, with strong, muscular bodies, large, heavy heads, and large feet.

Saint Bernard Coat Types and Colors

There are two types of coat - rough and smooth. Both types of coats are white with darker markings of tan, red, black, and reddish brown.

There is generally a white strip down the nose and either side of the muzzle. The tip of the nose is usually dark.

They generally have a rather solemn, almost quizzical expression.

Their white fur, when clean, is ethereal. A clean Saint Bernard does look very saintly indeed!

Saint Bernard Temperament and Personality Traits

Like most of the giant breeds, they are gentle, steady, and kind.

They are good with children, even very small children, and can be great watchdogs.

Although these gentle giant breed dogs are willing learners, because of their size, you need to start training early, while you can still out-muscle them if necessary. They may show a bit of stubborn independence.

Common Saint Bernard Health Problems

Saints are generally of good health, but as with many large dogs, they are prone to bloat and twisted stomachs, heart problems, and hip dysplasia.

They also suffer from "wobblers" syndrome (a problem of the spine) and problems with the lower eyelid folding inward, called extropion.

Saint Bernard Exercise and Activity Needs

Most large breeds don't need an excessive amount of exercise - a good walk and a romp, and they are ready for a nice, long nap.

Large-breed puppies should not have too much stressful exercise until their bones and joints are developed, and Saints are no exception.

Puppyhood will last until your Saint is almost two years old.

Grooming and Shedding

Keeping that white coat white isn't easy if your dog loves to play in the dirt.

Saint Bernard dogs do shed, however, so regular brushing is a requirement.

Living With a Saint Bernard Dog

One thing a Saint Bernard will not like is being too warm, so be prepared to move north or install air conditioning to ensure your Saint is happy in the summer.

They don't need a lot of exercise, but they do need a lot of room.

They also will want to be with their humans!

And yes, they do drool, but not as badly as many other 'wet' breeds.

Is a Saint Bernard the Right Dog for You?

Saint Bernards are loyal, gentle companions with an impressive history and a calm, loving nature.

They are also considered one of the most popular gentle giant dog breeds for families.

While their size, grooming needs, and health considerations require commitment, the reward is a devoted family dog that thrives on closeness, comfort, and companionship.