St. Bernard — breed guide

At a glance

Group

working

Size

Giant

Weight

54–82 kg (119–181 lb)

Life span

8–10 years

Coat

Dense short or long coat

Living with a St. Bernard

• Low energy — happy with gentle daily exercise.
• Regular grooming — brushing a few times a week.
• Constant heavy shedding.
• Trainable with consistency.
• Quiet.
• Can do well with children, with care — easier with older kids than toddlers.
• Gets along with other dogs.
• Typically lives happily with a cat.
• Not well suited to a flat — space, exercise need or voice works against it.
• A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
• Struggles in heat — walk early, walk late, and watch for distress.
• Built for cold weather.

Temperament

Playful · Charming · Patient · Watchful

Health to watch

• Hip dysplasia
• Bloat (GDV)
• Osteosarcoma
• Entropion

Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.

Did you know

Barry, the most famous Alpine rescue St. Bernard, saved more than 40 travelers — but the brandy barrel is pure legend.

Questions people ask

Is a St. Bernard good with kids?

With care. St. Bernards generally do well with older children who already know how to behave around a dog; with toddlers, supervise every interaction and give the animal somewhere it can retreat to.

Is a St. Bernard good with cats?

Usually yes. St. Bernards typically settle well with a resident cat — introduce them slowly and give the cat a high perch and a way out of the room.

How much exercise does a St. Bernard need?

A gentle daily walk.

Can a St. Bernard handle hot weather?

It struggles; keep summer outings short and shaded.