When it comes to gentle giants, Saint Bernards stand in a class of their own. Massive, powerful, yet incredibly affectionate, these dogs have captured the hearts of families across the world. Known for their rescue history in the Swiss Alps and their lovable temperament, St. Bernards are famous for being patient, loyal, protective, and unbelievably gentle with children.
Whether you’re planning to bring home a St. Bernard puppy or already have one and want to understand them better, this complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from grooming and feeding to temperament, health, living conditions, training, cost, and essential care tips.
This guide is specially written in a friendly, conversational tone, ideal for pet parents in India and globally.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Meet the Gentle Giants – Saint Bernards
The Saint Bernard is a giant working dog originally bred for mountain rescue missions in the snowy Alps. Their remarkable strength, intelligence, and nose-tracking ability helped them save more than 2,500 human lives over centuries.
Today, Saint Bernards are loved for:
- Their gentle nature
- Strong family bonding
- Calm temperament
- Loyalty
- Fantastic behavior around children
Despite their enormous size, St. Bernards are affectionate family dogs who love cuddles more than anything.
But…
Owning them comes with responsibilities — careful feeding, space, grooming, and consistent training.
This article will help you understand everything about living with a St. Bernard.
History & Origin of Saint Bernards
The history of Saint Bernards is rooted in heroism. These dogs originated from the Great St. Bernard Pass, a snowy mountain route between Italy and Switzerland. Around the 11th century, monks of the St. Bernard Hospice started breeding large, strong dogs capable of navigating harsh snowstorms and locating lost travelers.
Their incredible sense of smell, strength, and resilience made them legendary rescue dogs — especially the famous Saint Bernard named Barry, who saved over 40 lives.
Today, Saint Bernards are beloved family dogs known for their reliability, kindness, and devotion.
Appearance & Physical Characteristics
Saint Bernards are massive, muscular, and majestic. They are huge in size, comes under large category dogs, despite their size, they look sweet and gentle.
Height
- Male: 28 – 30 inches
- Female: 26 – 28 inches
Weight
- Male: 64 – 82 kg
- Female: 54 – 64 kg
Coat Types
Two varieties:
Short-haired (Smooth coat)
Long-haired (Rough coat)
Coat Colors
- Red & White
- Mahogany & White
- Brindle
- Brownish-yellow
- Orange & White
They have expressive dark eyes, floppy ears, and a large head with characteristic wrinkles.
St. Bernard Temperament & Personality
St.Bernards have one of the best temperaments of any dog breed.
Key temperament traits:
- Calm & Laid-back: They don’t require excessive energy or exercise.
- Family-oriented: Love spending time with humans.
- Patient with children: One of the best dog breeds for kids.
- Protective (but not aggressive): Alert and watchful.
- Very affectionate: Loves cuddles, belly rubs, and sitting near you.
- Intelligent but stubborn: Requires consistent training.
They bond deeply with their family and hate being left alone for long hours
Key Personality Traits:
- Extremely gentle & affectionate
- Calm and patient
- Great with children
- Protective without aggression
- Loyal and attached to family
- Intelligent but slightly stubborn
They don’t require high exercise levels and are happiest when relaxing indoors with their humans.
For families looking for a big dog with a soft heart, St. Bernards are a perfect match.
Living Requirements: Is a Saint Bernard Right for You?
These are wonderful pets but require the right environment.
Best suited for:
- Families with kids
- Homes with ample indoor space
- Cooler climates
- Owners willing to groom regularly
Not suitable for:
- Very hot regions (without AC)
- Small apartments
- People who cannot handle a large dog
- Owners who travel often
Their size demands space, but they are not hyper — they are very relaxed indoors.
Grooming Needs of St. Bernards
Grooming a St. Bernard takes dedication due to their coat, size, and drooling.
Grooming Checklist:
- Brushing: 2–4 times a week
- Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks
- Wrinkle Cleaning: Daily (prevents infections)
- Drool Cleaning: Multiple times a day
- Ear Cleaning: Weekly
- Nail Trimming: Every 3–4 weeks
- Shedding: Moderate to heavy
They blow their coat seasonally, so invest in a good de-shedding brush.
For more grooming tips you can also read 10 Best Dog Grooming Tips Every Pet Owner Should Know
Feeding & Nutrition Requirements of St. Bernards
Daily Food Requirements
- Adults: 5–7 cups of high-quality dog food daily (divided into 2–3 meals)
- Puppies: 3–4 smaller meals a day for steady growth
- Prevents overeating, supports digestion, and lowers bloat risk
Ideal Diet Composition
- 22–26% protein: Muscle health & tissue repair
- 12–15% healthy fats: Skin, coat, energy
- Low carbohydrates: Helps prevent obesity
- Omega-3 & Omega-6: Joint support + shiny coat
Best Foods for Saint Bernards
- Chicken, lamb, salmon
- Pumpkin, sweet potato, spinach, peas
- Brown rice, oats
- Omega-rich foods (fish oil, flaxseed)
Foods to Avoid
- Chocolate, sweets, fried foods
- Onions, garlic
- Excess dairy
- Chicken/fish bones
- High-fat foods that cause pancreatitis
Feeding Schedule
- Puppies: 3–4 meals/day
- Adults: 2 meals/day
- Seniors: 2 small meals/day
- Splitting meals prevents bloating and aids digestion
Water Intake
- Needs 3–5 liters of fresh water daily
- Essential for digestion, hydration, and temperature control
Recommended Supplements
- Glucosamine & chondroitin (joint support)
- Fish oil (skin + anti-inflammatory)
- Probiotics (gut health)
- Vitamin E & B complex (overall wellness)
Feeding Tips
- Use slow-feeder bowls to avoid fast eating
- Choose formulas for giant-breed dogs
- Avoid heavy exercise around mealtime
- Transition to new food gradually (5–7 days)
- Monitor stool quality for digestive issues
Exercise Needs
Saint Bernards are low-to-moderate energy.
Daily Needs:
- 30–45 mins of gentle walking
- Short play sessions
- Avoid long runs
- Avoid heat & midday sun
Their joints must be protected — avoid jumping exercises.
Training Guide for Saint Bernards
Training is essential due to their massive size.
Training Tips:
- Start early
- Use positive reinforcement
- Keep sessions short
- Be patient — they can be stubborn
- Socialize early
Important Basic Commands:
A well-trained Saint Bernard becomes a calm, controllable, and obedient giant.
- Sit
- Stay
- Heel
- Come
- Leave It
- Down
You can check the article Dog Training for Beginners:8 Basic Helpful Commands to Learn.
Common Health Issues in Saint Bernards
Because of their size, Saint Bernards are prone to certain health concerns:
Major Issues:
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Bloat (life-threatening emergency)
- Heart problems
- Arthritis
- Eye infections
- Ear infections
- Obesity
Regular vet visits are essential.
Pros and Cons of Saint Bernards Dog Breed
Pros and Cons of Saint Bernards: What Every Dog Owner Should Know
When deciding whether Saint Bernards are the right breed for your family, it helps to understand both their strengths and the challenges they bring. These gentle giants are loving, patient, and incredibly loyal, but they also require dedicated care, space, and financial readiness. The list below will help new and experienced pet owners make an informed decision.
Saint Bernards Pros and Cons (Comparison Table)
| Pros of Saint Bernards | Cons of Saint Bernards |
| Extremely gentle, affectionate, and family-friendly | Require large living space; not ideal for small apartments |
| Excellent with children — calm, patient, and protective | Very sensitive to heat; must live in a cool indoor environment |
| Low-to-moderate energy levels; no intense exercise needed | Heavy drooling and moderate-to-heavy shedding |
| Great watchdogs without aggression | Prone to health issues (hip dysplasia, bloat, joint problems) |
| Adapt well to indoor living and love staying close to family | Monthly costs are higher due to food and vet care |
| Friendly with other pets when socialized early | Can be stubborn during training; need consistency |
| Loyal, devoted, loving companionship | Shorter lifespan compared to small and medium breeds |
Summary of Saint Bernards Pros and Cons
Overall, Saint Bernards are incredible companions for families who can meet their needs. Their gentle personality, loyalty, and loving nature make them perfect for children and multi-pet homes. However, their giant size, drooling, grooming needs, heat sensitivity, and health concerns require a committed pet owner who is ready for the responsibility.
If you have enough space, patience, and resources, Saint Bernards can become one of the best and most rewarding dogs you’ll ever welcome into your home.
Saint Bernards Price & Buying Guide
Below is the updated price table for Saint Bernards in different countries:
| Country | Price Range | Notes |
| India | ₹30,000 – ₹80,000 | ₹1,00,000 – ₹2,00,000 for show-quality or imported lineage |
| USA | $1,200 – $3,000 | Well-bred puppies from reputable breeders may cost more |
| UK | £1,000 – £2,500 | Includes vaccinated & pedigree-certified puppies |
| Canada | CAD 1,500 – CAD 3,500 | Price varies by coat type & breeder reputation |
| Australia | AUD 1,800 – AUD 3,500 | Limited breeders, higher demand |
| Europe | €1,000 – €2,500 | Depending on pedigree & export documents |
Note: Prices depend heavily on breeder reputation, pedigree quality, coat type (long/short), location, and health certifications.
Buying Guide for Saint Bernards
Buying a Saint Bernard requires thoughtful consideration, especially because this giant breed has specific health, climate, and lifestyle needs. When choosing a breeder, always prioritize health over appearance. A responsible breeder should willingly provide health certificates for the puppy’s parents, including hip and elbow dysplasia screening — two of the most common issues in Saint Bernards.
Make sure the breeder has a clean environment, properly socialized puppies, and transparent information about vaccination, deworming, and feeding schedules. Avoid breeders who pressure you into quick decisions or offer unusually cheap puppies, as they may come from puppy mills or unethical breeding practices.
Always visit the kennel personally (or request a live video tour) to observe the puppy’s behavior and the puppy’s parents. A healthy Saint Bernard puppy should be active, curious, and friendly, not fearful or lethargic.
Ask for details about the puppy’s lineage, whether the parents are imported or champion lines, and check if the breeder is registered with recognized kennel clubs. Lastly, ensure you are fully prepared for the long-term commitment — Saint Bernards need ample space, proper grooming, quality nutrition, and regular veterinary care.
If you follow this guide, you will not only bring home a healthy Saint Bernard but also a loyal gentle giant who fits perfectly into your family.
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Final Thoughts
Saint Bernards are majestic, affectionate, and incredibly loyal family companions. They might be big, but their hearts are even bigger. With proper training, nutrition, space, and love, Saint Bernards become gentle, loving members of the family.
They are not the easiest breed to care for — but the warmth, love, and companionship they offer make every bit of the effort worth it.
If you want a kind, giant-hearted, protective, and family-friendly dog, a Saint Bernard may be the perfect choice for you.
FAQs
Are Saint Bernards good for families?
Yes. Saint Bernards are gentle, loving, and excellent with children.
Do Saint Bernards drool a lot?
Yes, especially after drinking or eating.
Are they aggressive?
No. They are friendly and calm, but protective.
Are Saint Bernards good for hot climates?
Not naturally. They need cool indoor spaces.
How much grooming do they need?
Regular brushing and wrinkle cleaning are essential.
Can they live in apartments?
Yes, if the apartment is spacious and air-conditioned.
Are Saint Bernards easy to train?
They’re smart but stubborn. Start early.
How long do they live?
8–10 years on average.
Do they shed?
Yes — moderate to heavy.
Can Saint Bernards live with other pets?
Yes, when socialized properly.
How much food do they eat daily?
5–7 cups per day depending on age and activity.
Are Saint Bernards expensive to maintain?
Yes due to their size, food needs, and vet bills.
How much exercise do they need?
30–45 minutes a day.
Do Saint Bernards bark a lot?
No, they are generally quiet.
What are common health problems?
Bloat, hip dysplasia, joint issues, and heart conditions.