SAINT BERNARD

Temperament: Playful, Charming, Inquisitive

AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 48 of 197

Height: 28-30 inches (males), 26-28 inches (female)

Weight: 140-180 pounds (male), 120-140 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 8-10 years

Group: Working Group

ABOUT THE SAINT BERNARD

Originally the Saint Bernard dog breed guarded the grounds of Switzerland’s Hospice Saint Bernard as well as to help find and save lost and injured travelers.

The St. Bernard is a much-loved breed today. He’s versatile, good-natured, and a fine choice for the person or family who would like a large but gentle dog with moderate exercise needs.

PERSONALITY

Saints are friendly and welcoming. They have a steady, benevolent temperament and are kind and careful with children. They love attention but aren’t as demanding of it as some breeds.

They’re intelligent and willing to please but sometimes stubborn. They should never be aggressive unless it’s in defense of a family member.

NUTRITION

The Saint Bernard should do well on a high-quality dog food that ideally is formulated for large breeds, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian’s supervision and approval.

Any diet should be appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level.

Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity.

HEALTH

Saints are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they’re prone to certain health conditions.

• Hip Dysplasia
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Entropion
• Epilepsy
• Dilated Cardiomyopathy
• Cataracts
• Allergies
• Gastric dilatation-volvulus

CARE

Despite being a large and powerful breed, the St. Bernard only requires a moderate amount of exercise. One long walk or half-hour play session per day should be enough to keep him healthy and happy.

If his owner wants to take longer hikes, or go backpacking or on a camping trip, a Saint is always happy to go along.

Saints often enjoy pulling young children in a cart, and some even participate in carting and drafting competitions.

GROOMING

Saint Bernards come in long-haired and short-haired varieties, but both types of coats require the same care. Weekly brushing will help to remove dirt and loose hair and keep the dog looking his best.

As with all breeds, the nails should be trimmed regularly, as overly long nails can be painful to the dog and cause problems walking and running.

Source: dogtime, akc.