Saint Bernard

The Saint Bernard is the ultimate gentle giant — patient, calm, and deeply affectionate with children. Their massive size and drooling are significant considerations, but for families with space, they are extraordinarily loyal and loving companions.

30-60 minutes of moderate daily exercise. They are not high-energy dogs.

Brush weekly. Smooth-coated Saints need less grooming than rough-coated. Wipe face daily to clean drool.

Coat type: Dense, smooth or rough coat in red and white or mahogany and white

Giant breeds face significant health challenges. Hip/elbow dysplasia, bloat, and heart disease are the primary concerns.

The Saint Bernard was developed by monks at the Great Saint Bernard Hospice in the Swiss Alps, where they were used to rescue travelers lost in the mountain passes between Switzerland and Italy. The breed is named after Saint Bernard of Menthon, who founded the hospice in the 11th century. The most famous Saint Bernard, Barry, rescued over 40 people between 1800 and 1812 and is commemorated by a statue in Bern.

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  The iconic brandy barrel around the Saint Bernard's neck is a myth — it was invented by a 19th-century artist and never actually used.

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  Barry, the most famous Saint Bernard, rescued over 40 people in the Swiss Alps between 1800 and 1812.

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  Saint Bernards were used to find avalanche victims by smelling for body heat under the snow.

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  The movie Beethoven (1992) drove a massive surge in Saint Bernard adoptions, followed by a wave of surrenders from unprepared owners.

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  Saint Bernards can weigh up to 180 lbs — their food costs alone can exceed $100 per month.

Owning a Saint Bernard is a long-term financial commitment. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to budget for.

* Estimates based on national averages. Costs vary by location, lifestyle, and individual health needs. Emergency vet visits are not included.

Saint Bernard registrations have declined as their enormous size, short lifespan, and significant health costs limit their appeal. The movie Beethoven (1992) drove a surge in popularity that was followed by a wave of surrenders from unprepared owners.

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