St. Bernards 101

Working group

From the hero of the Swiss Alps to the star of several movies, the Saint Bernard is an easily recognizable dog. While the breed is loving and even cuddly with family members, they truly are massive dogs, and they still love the cold. Fans of the breed can be identified by the towels they carry – this is one of the heaviest droolers around.

Nationwide Outline Icons Vibrant Blue Heart 24x24pxWhat we love about St. Bernards

A loving lug of a dog

Energy level

50% energy level

Energy level: 50% (Moderate)

Bark level

  • Very vocal
  • Talkative

Bark level: As needed. This breed only barks when necessary

Size

26 to 30 inches tall
Extra large breed size

Size: 26 to 30 inches tall. This is a X large sized Dog.

Lifespan

8 to 10 years

Lifespan: 8 to 10 years average

Weight

120 to 180 lbs

Weight: 120 to 180 lbs typical range

Breed Group
Working group
Energy level
Moderate (50%)
Bark level
As needed
Height
26 to 30 inches
Lifespan
8 to 10 years
Weight
120 to 180 lbs

The Saint Bernard stands 26 to 30 inches tall and weighs 120 to 180 lbs. Saint Bernards have a lifespan of 8 to 10 years. They are known for a moderate (50%) energy level and a as needed bark.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big do Saint Bernards get?
Saint Bernards stand 26 to 30 inches tall and typically weigh between 120 and 180 pounds.
How long do Saint Bernards live?
The average lifespan of a Saint Bernard is 8 to 10 years.
Are Saint Bernards good for first-time dog owners?
Saint Bernards have moderate energy levels and can be suitable for first-time owners who are committed to regular exercise and training.
Do Saint Bernards bark a lot?
Saint Bernards typically only bark when necessary — they are not known to be excessive barkers.

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My pet’s health plannerSM

Mature adult St. Bernard

4 years to 5 years

Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions

Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Hip dysplasia

Senior St. Bernard

6+ years

Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions

Arthritis

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Hip dysplasia

St. Bernard puppy

0 to 15 months

Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions

Ear infection

Foreign body ingestion

Urinary tract infection

Young adult St. Bernard

16 months to 3 years

Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Hip dysplasia

Seizures

Mature adult St. Bernard

4 years to 5 years

Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions

Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Hip dysplasia

Senior St. Bernard

6+ years

Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions

Arthritis

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Hip dysplasia

St. Bernard puppy

0 to 15 months

Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions

Ear infection

Foreign body ingestion

Urinary tract infection

Young adult St. Bernard

16 months to 3 years

Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Hip dysplasia

Seizures

Saint Bernard image

Nationwide can help you save on your Saint Bernard's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.

Saint Bernard image

Eight "Beethoven" films starring a Saint Bernard gave the breed a burst of popularity in the later part of the last century – even though the dog was presented as amusingly and lovingly out of control.

Saint Bernard coat care and colors

Saint Bernards come in both long- and short-haired coat types, but both types are double-coated, making them heavy seasonal shedders. To minimize shedding, comb and bush down to the skin to get as much loose fur as you can. Because of the breed's massive size, acclimate young dogs to nail trims early with praise and treats.

St. Bernard exercise & training

Exercise level

Exercise level

The Saint Bernard doesn't require a huge amount of exercise, but they do enjoy a good long ramble, especially in the winter.

Trainability

Trainability

As with many breeds developed to make decisions on their own, the Saint Bernard may not be especially interested in your guidance. They are, however, devoted dogs and will be willing to listen if you make it worth their while with praise and treats.

St. Bernard fun facts

Top girl names for St. Bernards

100%

of St. Bernards are female

0%

of St. Bernards are male

Top boy names for St. Bernards

Nationwide loves Saint Bernards of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like St. Bernards

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