Let's Meet the Saint Bernard Dog: A Gentle Giant
- Dec 9, 2025
- 15 min read
Updated: Jan 9
The History of the Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard, a working dog breed, hails from the stunning Western Alps, which stretch across Italy and Switzerland. Its history is closely tied to the Great St. Bernard Pass, a perilous Alpine route. This pass is home to a hospice named after the Alpine monk, Saint Bernard of Menthon. He helped establish the hospice and develop the Saint Bernard breed.
Monks at the hospice trained these dogs under harsh Alpine conditions. Their mission? To locate and rescue lost or injured travellers. And boy, did they do it with skill and dedication!
Barrels of Brandy
The Saint Bernard is famous for its heroic rescue efforts in the treacherous Alpine mountains. This has inspired admiration among dog lovers and potential owners alike.
Historical evidence of their use at the monastery dates back to two paintings by the Italian artist Salvator Rosa, created in 1690. These paintings depict dogs with barrels of brandy around their necks—a myth suggesting that avalanche victims drank brandy to keep warm. The monks deny that the dogs carried barrels, although they did keep barrels for tourists' photographs.
A Famous Saint Bernard
Now, let’s talk about Barry (also spelled Berry), a legendary St. Bernard known for rescuing people at the pass. His story inspires awe and admiration among dog lovers.
Barry is credited with saving between 40 and 100 lives! He bravely ventured into the fog and snow, barking and running without stopping. But he soon realised that he couldn't rescue people trapped in the snow by sheer strength alone. Instead, he would go to the hospital and alert the monks about those needing help. His actions saved many lives, and he became a beloved figure in his community.
Brave Barry Retired
As Barry aged and lost his strength, the Prior of the Convent rewarded him with a pension at Berney. After his passing, a sculpture of him with a rescued child was erected in his honour at the Cimetière des Chiens. Those who admired Barry's bravery wanted to commemorate him. His body was preserved and placed in the Natural History Museum in Bern. To this day, a small vial containing a revitalising elixir for distressed travellers remains suspended from his collar.
A Different Dog
The traditional Saint Bernard differs significantly from the breed we know today. The first Saint Bernards appeared between 1660 and 1670, and they were smaller than the show dogs we see now. Increased avalanches between 1816 and 1818 led to many Saint Bernards losing their lives during rescue missions. To preserve the breed, breeders crossbred the remaining dogs in the 1850s. The modern Saint Bernard is a result of this crossbreeding.
In March 1884, the St. Bernard Club was founded in Basel, officially listing the breed in the Swiss Stud Book as the first recognised breed. By 1888, they approved the breed standard, confirming the Saint Bernard as the National Dog of Switzerland.
War Dogs
During the tumultuous years of World War I, Saint Bernards once again demonstrated their courage by aiding the Red Cross.
Their responsibility was to transport crucial supplies to troops stationed in the treacherous mountains of Italy. They navigated terrains that were impassable to mules and horses. This further highlights their remarkable adaptability and unwavering resilience.
Redundancy and Preservation
Since 1955, there have been no recorded rescues involving the breed. Their legacy, however, reflects their courage and dedication. Once vital in rescue operations, the Saint Bernard is now primarily a beloved family pet known for its loyalty, courage, and gentle demeanour.
The Breed Still Carries On
Today, the Saint Bernard continues its legacy as a cherished family companion. Organisations like the BARRY FOUNDATION work tirelessly to preserve the breed's history and traits.
As of 2004, the Great Saint Bernard Hospice cared for 18 of these iconic dogs, maintaining their legacy for sentimental reasons. That same year, the Barry Foundation began its efforts to preserve the breed, opening breeding kennels in Martigny, just below the Great Saint Bernard Pass. They bought the remaining dogs from the hospice.
Today, the Barry Foundation employs a dedicated staff to care for 30 to 40 adult dogs. These dogs participate in various activities, including animal-assisted therapy. They interact with visitors at the Martigny Museum and take part in tourist activities, including summer stays at the hospice. This interaction helps preserve the breed's legacy.
The Personality of a Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is known for its calm, easygoing nature. Often seen as a low-energy breed, this dog isn't typically a fast mover but learns quickly and responds methodically. However, they can be a bit obstinate. Once a Saint Bernard understands what's required, its innate desire to please usually overrides any stubbornness.
These dogs are affectionate towards their families, showering them with love. They’re generally friendly with strangers too, making them delightful family pets.
Living with a Saint Bernard
Getting Along with Other Pets
When it comes to interactions with other household pets, Saint Bernards usually get along well. Socialisation from an early age is key. However, they may show less friendliness toward unfamiliar dogs.
Can Be a Deterrent
While the Saint Bernard may not be the perfect watchdog or guard dog, their sheer size and deep bark can deter most intruders. They’re not prone to barking without reason, so you can rest easy.
A Family Dog
Saint Bernards are renowned for their social disposition. With their gentle temperament, they make great companions. A Saint Bernard thrives on family interaction and actively participates in family activities. They can display noticeable discontent if excluded. However, as they mature, their playtime tends to be short and sweet.
Interactions with Children
Saint Bernards are generally known to be good with children. They’re typically gentle, friendly, and patient, making them fantastic family pets. Did you know the Saint Bernard is affectionately nicknamed the "Nanny Dog"? This nickname comes from their nurturing and patient nature with children of all ages. Just remember, they’re powerful, so keep an eye on them around babies, toddlers, and older adults to avoid any accidental bumps.
Not a Dog for an Active Family
Saint Bernards aren’t the best choice for activities like hiking or jogging due to their low energy levels and limited heat tolerance. They thrive in cold climates and love the snow, which is perfect for playtime. Keep in mind that these are general characteristics, and individual dogs may vary.
Escape Artists
Saint Bernards may seem docile, but they can escape surprisingly well. They can slip through gaps in fences, especially if they find an enticing opening. It’s essential to ensure your garden's boundary is sturdy and secure for your Saint Bernard's safety and freedom outdoors.
Drooling
Saint Bernards are also notorious for their drooling. When they shake their heads, drool goes flying everywhere! As an owner, you can expect to clean drool from their faces, floors, and other surfaces frequently.
Ideal Owners
A Saint Bernard may not be the right choice for first-time dog owners. They need firm, disciplined guidance. Novice owners might find managing a Saint Bernard's needs overwhelming, as the breed can be slow to respond to commands. Yet, they can be remarkably loyal and loving companions with patience, love, and consistent guidance. However, people who work most of the day may not be suited for a Saint Bernard.
Note: Thinking of Owning a Dog
If you’re considering becoming a dog owner, always remember to educate your children on how to interact with dogs appropriately. Teach them to avoid behaviours like pulling, smacking, poking, or disturbing dogs while they’re eating or sleeping. Ensuring respect and care in these interactions is crucial. Also, extra caution should be taken when introducing dogs to children, regardless of the dog's training level.
Appearance and Size
Saint Bernards are massive, powerful, muscular dogs. They may be long-haired or short-haired. The short-haired Saint Bernards have a smooth, dense coat, while the long-haired ones have slightly wavier coats. Coat colours include red and white, brown and white, and brindle and white. Some dogs have dark masks over their eyes. Their ears are set high on the head and are floppy, while their eyes are dark and somewhat droopy. The forehead has wrinkles, and they’re known for their distinctive jowls, which can cause drooling. Due to their large size, they mature more slowly than some other breeds, generally reaching their full size between 2 and 3 years old.
Size: Giant
Height: 25 to 30 inches
Weight: 120 to 200 lbs
Coat Length: Can be long or short-haired with a double coat.
Coat Colours: Red and white, brindle and white, brown and white
Sheds: Yes
Grooming Needs: Moderate, but more required in Spring and Autumn.
Personality: Loving, patient, and very laid back
Exercise Requirements: 1 hour per day plus playtime.
Training: Consistent training, starting when the dog is young enough to venture out, is crucial for their development, as this breed can sometimes demonstrate stubbornness.
Tendency to Bark: Low.
Tendency to Dig: Low.
Tendency to Drool: High.
Tendency to Snore: Medium
Social Attention Needs: High.
Accommodation: A prominent, spacious place with plenty of room to turn and stretch without knocking things over. These dogs can overheat, so living in a cool climate would be better.
Owner: Not Suitable for a Novice Owner
Life Span: 8-10 years.
Kennel Club Recognition:
AKC Group: Working
UKC Group: Working
Grooming
Brushing
Despite shedding quite a bit, a Saint Bernard's coat requires only average maintenance. Brushing them at least 3 to 4 times a week helps prevent matting and remove dead hair. During shedding seasons in Spring and Autumn, more frequent brushing may be necessary. Daily brushing during these times can help keep their coat healthy and reduce hair on your furniture and clothing.
Bathing
A Saint Bernard should be bathed every 2 to 3 months. A good sponge-down may help if they get dirty while playing. Their natural oils help keep their skin and coat healthy.
Facial Care
Due to their distinctive facial features and skin folds, Saint Bernards require regular cleaning around these areas to prevent irritation and infection. Use a clean cloth or damp cotton-wool balls to gently wipe between their skin folds, ensuring all crevices are clean and dry.
Ear Care
Regular ear checks are vital to prevent infections and other complications. The frequency of ear cleaning for your Saint Bernard depends on factors like age, overall health, and lifestyle. It’s advisable to consult with your vet about the recommended frequency of ear cleaning. Following these steps can help maintain your Saint Bernard's facial hygiene and contribute to their overall health.
Eye Care
Gather your supplies: You’ll need a soft washcloth or cotton balls, warm water (or a saline eye-wash solution), and, if needed, a solution specifically designed for cleaning dog tear stains.
Cleaning the area around the eyes:
Moisten the washcloth or cotton ball with warm water or the eye wash solution.
Gently wipe the area around their eyes using a soft, damp cloth, avoiding the eyeball itself to remove debris or any build-up that could cause irritation or infection.
For tear stains, you may need to gently loosen and remove any dried discharge with the damp cloth.
If using a tear stain solution, follow the product instructions carefully.
Dealing with tear stains:
Tear stains from excessive tearing and bacterial growth can be more noticeable in lighter-coloured dogs.
Consult with a veterinarian if tear stains become a problem to rule out any underlying medical causes.
You could use a tear stain remover solution or wipes, following the product instructions carefully.
Keeping the hair around the eyes trimmed can also help prevent tear stains.
Safety precautions:
Always approach your dog slowly and gently to avoid startling them.
Never use soap or shampoo directly into your dog's ears or on your dog's eyes, as this can cause irritation or damage.
If you’re concerned about your dog's ears or eyes, or if they seem painful, swollen, or have excessive discharge, consult a veterinarian.
A Professional Groomer
It’s a good idea to book your Saint Bernard in for a professional grooming session every few months. Start them off young so they know what to expect. A visit to a professional groomer now and again allows them to spot anything that might need your vet's attention.
Dental Care
Like humans, maintaining good oral hygiene for your Saint Bernard is crucial. Brushing your dog's teeth every day is essential to prevent plaque formation. Plaque harbours bacteria that can spread to the dog's gums, causing potential pain and discomfort. Start this routine when your Saint Bernard is young to ensure they become accustomed to it. To make this task more appealing, consider using meat-flavoured toothpaste, which is more palatable to dogs. Regular dental care contributes significantly to your pet's overall health and well-being. On days you can’t clean your dog's teeth, give them a dental stick to chew. A dental stick can help fight plaque and keep their breath fresh.
Note: Never use human toothpaste to clean your Saint Bernard's teeth, as it contains harmful ingredients like fluoride. If ingested, these toxic ingredients could lead to serious health complications. Always use dog-specific toothpaste for your dog's dental care.
Health
Unfortunately, the breed is prone to genetic conditions such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. These disorders can considerably deteriorate the dog's bone health, leading to discomfort and mobility issues.
Osteosarcoma, or bone cancer, is hereditary among Saint Bernards, further emphasising the need for regular health checkups.
Entropion and ectropion are eye disorders in which the eyelid rolls inwards or outwards. These conditions are common among this breed and recognised as significant faults.
Saint Bernards are additionally susceptible to epilepsy and seizures, requiring extra care and regular veterinary consultations.
Dilated cardiomyopathy is a heart disease characterised by an enlarged heart that doesn't function efficiently.
Note: Your Saint Bernard may never contract any of the above ailments. However, it’s wise to be aware of them. Regular vet checkups will help monitor and manage these potential health issues.
Food and Diet
Selecting the Right Food
Finding the optimal food for your dog can be daunting. It’s all about sifting through countless reviews and clever marketing strategies. However, if you’re reading this, you’re probably a proud owner of a Saint Bernard. The size of your gentle giant must play a significant role in your decision-making process.
Homemade Food
Feeding your Saint Bernard a homemade diet can be beneficial if done correctly. Ensure the diet is rich in high-quality animal-based protein sources. Some excellent options include beef, lamb, duck, chicken, turkey, fish, and eggs. Additionally, animal fat is the second most important nutrient to include in their meals for optimal health.
You should also include vegetables in your dog's diet to provide essential vitamins and minerals. The best vegetables for your Saint Bernard include spinach, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, green beans, sweet potato, peas, cucumber, carrots, and broccoli. You can include rice, but only in moderation, ensuring it is plain and unseasoned. It should form part of your dog's balanced diet rather than being the primary component. Remember, each dog is unique, and the right food often depends on factors such as age, activity level, breed, and size.
A Feeding Routine
Creating a consistent feeding schedule for your Saint Bernard can be beneficial. Try to feed them at the same time every day to establish a routine. Also, allow some time between feeding and exercise to aid digestion and prevent potential health issues.
Diet
To keep your Saint Bernard healthy, it’s essential to provide them with a balanced diet. Seek advice from a veterinarian or a pet nutrition expert for the best diet advice. This helps ensure your dog receives all the nutrients needed for good health and overall well-being.
Manage your Saint Bernard's diet based on their age and health. Recommendations suggest feeding dogs balanced commercial dog food that provides complete nutrients. A well-balanced meal will help maintain their health and prevent obesity. Splitting daily food intake into two meals is recommended to prevent bloating and maintain a steady metabolism.
If you use treats for training or as occasional rewards, remember to adjust their daily food allowance accordingly. Treats should comprise no more than 10% of a dog's daily caloric intake to avoid an unbalanced diet. Tailoring your pet's diet to their needs will help guarantee their well-being and longevity.
Exercise and Games
Exercise
To ensure optimal health, a fully grown Saint Bernard requires at least an hour of daily exercise. This should consist of walks, including at least one long walk, supplemented with a few shorter ones. Add playtime and brain games to their routine, and secure off-leash time.
Some Saint Bernards may even be up for more physical activity. However, it’s important to note that this breed is prone to joint problems. If your Saint Bernard suffers from such issues, your vet may advise adjusting their exercise regimen.
Games
Fetch - Engaging your Saint Bernard in a classic game of fetch is a fun and effective way to expend their energy. The joy of chasing their favourite toy or ball can keep them entertained for hours. Incorporating fetch into your dog's walk routine can provide extended playtime, keeping them active and happy.
Fetch a Toy - To play a different game of fetch, choose your dog's favourite toy first. Ask your dog to sit and stay while you place the toy a few feet away. Once you’ve done that, release your furry friend and command them to "Go Fetch It." Once they've retrieved the toy, praise them for a job well done. Gradually increase the distance you throw the toy to further challenge them.
Tug of War - Saint Bernards love a good game of Tug of War. It’s a contest that can keep them entertained for hours! They’ll play with almost anything, whether it’s a favourite toy, an old shoe, or even an old sock. You can easily find specially designed rope toys perfect for Tug of War games. These toys allow your dog to grip tightly without discomfort.
Find the Treat - For a more relaxed game, hide treats around the home or garden. This is a fantastic way to keep your Saint Bernard entertained while you enjoy some downtime. The "Find the Treat" game provides the mental stimulation your dog needs and helps sharpen their sense of smell. Just don’t hide too many treats, as the more treats you give them to find, the more energy your Saint Bernard will have.
Find a Toy - Alternatively, why not hide your dog's favourite toys? Some Saint Bernards will quickly take to the game, turning into determined hunters. For others, it may take a little longer to understand. Start by hiding the toy in an easy-to-find location. As your Saint Bernard improves, you can place the toy in more concealed places to increase the game’s difficulty level. This game can amuse both you and your Saint Bernard for a long time.
Monitored Playtime
Always monitor your dog while playing. If they show signs of becoming overly aggressive, it’s advisable to switch to a more serene game. Maintaining a balance between playfulness and calmness in your dog's activities will ensure they remain a joy to be around.
Training and Socialisation
Saint Bernards are intelligent dogs that require 15 minutes of daily training to grasp basic tasks. They tend to quickly understand one or two-syllable training words, making the training process relatively smooth. Given their large size, it’s vital to begin training when they’re young pups, especially if they’ll be spending time indoors. In the first few months, training should focus on essential commands such as "SIT," "STAY," "COME," and "NO."
Repetition with Training
Establishing boundaries for your Saint Bernard puppy as it grows is essential, such as preventing it from chewing on things it shouldn't. Consistency during training is crucial to help your dog avoid unwanted chewing behaviours. Repetition and positive reinforcement are vital aspects of this gradual process. Just like any other breed, Saint Bernards require ongoing training. Successful training requires making it a positive and enjoyable experience.
House Training
House-training a Saint Bernard puppy requires patience and consistency. The time scale can vary greatly, from a few weeks to several months, depending on your puppy's age, temperament, and the consistency of your training efforts.
Puppies are quick learners, but Saint Bernards have unique personalities, making training challenging. Some may take longer to get house-trained. However, you can teach any pup good habits with patience and positive reinforcement.
To train your pet to relieve itself outside, establish and stick to a consistent routine. Consistency is crucial for successful house training. Remember to reward your puppy for its achievements. Rewarding your Saint Bernard pup gives it the incentive to repeat the behaviour, ultimately speeding up the potty training process.
Good Training Methods
Saint Bernards can quickly develop bad habits, and their large size means they can unintentionally cause havoc if not trained properly. A positive, reward-based training method is advisable to instil good manners in your dog. Teaching them not to jump from an early age is crucial, given their size and strength as adults. Immediately rewarding them for keeping all four paws on the ground when greeting people can help them avoid jumping up.
Socialisation
It’s important to socialise your Saint Bernard puppies at an early age. Socialising means introducing them to different places, animals, and people so they can become more confident in various situations. Good socialisation can help your Saint Bernard grow into a happy and well-adjusted adult dog.
Separation Anxiety
A Saint Bernard has a calm temperament and a lesser tendency to bark or cause damage when left alone. However, leaving a Saint Bernard alone for more than four hours isn’t recommended. They can suffer from separation anxiety and may become destructive when left alone for long periods. These dogs thrive in a family environment with plenty of activities to keep them occupied and happy. Regular interaction and engagement are vital in ensuring your Saint Bernard remains mentally stimulated and content.
Buying from a Reputable Breeder
So, are you ready to own a Saint Bernard? If so, ensure you conduct thorough research. Gather all the facts you need to ensure your pup is healthy and happy and comes from a reputable breeder. Always visit the breeder on their premises to see the pups with their mother.
A reputable breeder can provide documentation regarding their puppy's background, temperament, and history. If you buy a Saint Bernard pup from a Kennel Club-registered breeder, ask to see their documentation. A Kennel Club Registered Breeder will ensure your pup has all the necessary health checks. Always obtain a contract of sale for the premises where you purchase the puppy. If anything feels off about the kennels or the puppies, walk away.
Final Thoughts
Owning a Saint Bernard is an enriching experience. It comes with all the joy of having a gentle giant companion, plus the responsibility of providing them with love, care, and proper nutrition. Regular exercise and training can help your Saint Bernard become a well-behaved dog. It can also prevent health issues and ensure longevity.
Some Saint Bernards may require special care and consideration, such as a tailored diet. But overall, this breed is an excellent family pet that will bring joy and companionship into your life.
From obedience training to proper nutrition, caring for a Saint Bernard is an exciting journey. And if done correctly, it can bring you many years of joy and companionship. So, if you’re ready to take on the challenge, why not make your home more awesome with a lovable Saint Bernard?
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