Saint Bernard: Temperament, Size and Everyday Care

A Saint Bernard suits a household with space, a cool home and a budget for a giant dog. Gentle and patient, Saints are often wonderful with families, but they drool, shed and feel the heat. Grow the puppy slowly, keep the adult lean, and learn the signs of bloat.

A Saint Bernard lying in the shade of a mountain pasture fence — Gentle giant, plenty of drool.

Breed-standard figures; individual dogs vary.

Saint Bernard at a glance
Height	At least 30 inches (75 cm) for males and 28 inches (70 cm) for females
Lifespan	Under 10 years
Coat	Rough or smooth; brush a few times a week
Exercise	Up to an hour a day, gently
Good with	Families and other pets, usually
Bred for	Mountain rescue and guarding in the Swiss Alps

Who a Saint Suits

Saints are calm, friendly and patient. They suit families with space and cool weather.

They are a harder fit for hot climates, small homes and very tidy owners.

Growing a Giant Slowly

Feed a giant-breed puppy food, keep your puppy lean, and avoid lots of jumping and stairs while it grows. Start leash training early: a giant that pulls is no fun. See Great Dane for more on giant puppies.

Heat, Drool and Coat

Heavy coats overheat easily: walk early and late in summer and give shade. Keep towels for drool. Brush a few times a week, more when shedding.

Gear for a Saint

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A giant-breed harness, an XL supportive bed, a cooling mat, a drool towel pack and an undercoat rake.

Health: What to Ask the Breeder and Your Vet

In the UK, The Royal Kennel Club lists hip and elbow scoring and eye testing as good practice for Saint Bernard breeders. Ask about heart checks too, and learn the signs of bloat, an emergency in deep-chested dogs; see our Great Dane page.

Book a check-up soon after your dog comes home, keep it lean, and ask your vet about vaccinations, neutering and a parasite prevention plan for where you live.

Worming, flea and tick products and any medicines: see your vet or a pet supply store with trained staff. They can tell you what suits your dog.

Frequently Asked Questions

Big dog, common questions.

How long do Saint Bernards live?

The Royal Kennel Club gives under 10 years.

Do Saint Bernards drool?

Most do, a fair amount. Keep towels handy.

Can Saint Bernards live in warm climates?

They find heat hard. Cool homes, shade and early or late walks are essential.

Are Saints good with children?

Usually gentle and patient, but very large; supervise.