Comes in two varieties: a short, dense double coat and a longer, slightly wavy coat with feathering. Both have a huge, powerful, well-muscled body and an impressive head with an alert, kindly look.12
Colourswhite with red patcheswhite with a red mantlereddish-brown brindle patcheswhite markings on chest, feet, tail tip, muzzle, blaze and neck1
Personality what they are like
A famously good-natured giant. It is friendly, calm to lively and watchful, and it tends to be patient and careful around children. Eager to please, which helps with training.1542
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Moderate for its size. Sources range from under 20 minutes to about an hour of exercise a day; relaxed walks suit it better than hard running, especially while young and growing.43
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Brushing more than once a week, and more often during the spring and autumn sheds. Keep a towel handy, as the breed drools.34
Home where they are happiest
Needs a large house and garden; suits town or country living.3
Food basics what goes in the bowl
Feed a quality diet in measured portions and avoid overfeeding; a lean body is kinder to its big frame. Its calm nature means it may eat less per kilo than more active breeds.4
Company who they like around
A devoted family dog that loves being with its people.52
The story where it all began
Monks at the hospice on the Great St. Bernard Pass began keeping large mountain dogs around 1660 to 1670 for guarding and then for finding travellers lost in snow. The rescue dog Barry made the breed world famous in the 19th century. A Swiss breed club formed in 1884 and the St. Bernard became Switzerland's national dog.123
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
Barry, the most famous hospice dog, is credited with saving somewhere between 40 and 100 lives.2
2
The hospice monks say their dogs never actually carried brandy barrels around their necks; that image is a myth.2
3
The last recorded Alpine rescue by a St. Bernard took place in 1955.2
4
The breed starred in the 1990s 'Beethoven' family films.4
The breed is named after Saint Bernard of Menthon, an 11th-century monk who founded a hospice at the Great St. Bernard Pass in the Swiss Alps, where the dogs were originally bred for rescue work.6
Famous ones stars of the breed
Barry Legendary rescue dog credited with saving over 40 lives in the early 1800s at the Great St. Bernard Hospice.1
Beethoven Star of the 1992 family comedy film 'Beethoven' about a mischievous St. Bernard.5
Cujo Fictional rabid St. Bernard from Stephen King's 1981 novel and 1983 film adaptation.7
Nana The beloved St. Bernard dog in J.M. Barrie's 'Peter Pan' stories, serving as the Darling children's nurse.6
I'm a St. Bernard, and my day is all about being a gentle giant. I start with a big stretch and a drooly yawn, then I pad softly to check on my family. After a relaxed walk around the garden, I find a sunny spot for a nap. The children come home and I let them climb on me, always patient. Later, I patrol the yard, making sure all is safe. Dinner time is my favorite – I wait politely. Then it's back to the sofa for more cuddles. Life is good when you're big and kind.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
FCI
Standard no. 61, Group 2, Section 2.2 Molossoid, mountain type; standard dated 03.06.2016. Recognised as a Swiss breed in 1887.1
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my St. Bernard, and at what times?
Feed your St. Bernard at least two measured meals a day for an adult, and three to four smaller meals for a puppy. Avoid free feeding, as a lean body is kinder to its big frame. Check the food label and ask your vet for the right portion sizes.48
What should a St. Bernard eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a quality diet in measured portions, avoiding overfeeding. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, which are especially risky for dogs. Always keep these away from your St. Bernard.49
How often should I bathe a St. Bernard?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, but general guidance says at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues. Use a dog-safe shampoo and keep a towel handy for drool.10Pet Wiki plan
How often does a St. Bernard need brushing?
Brush your St. Bernard more than once a week, and more often during spring and autumn sheds. The coat can be short or long, so weekly brushing is a good start. This helps manage shedding and keeps the coat healthy.3410
How do I trim a St. Bernard's nails, and how often?
Furry Diary's plan suggests trimming nails every 28 days, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Trim a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.10Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a St. Bernard need?
St. Bernards need moderate exercise, from under 20 minutes to about an hour daily. Relaxed walks suit them better than hard running, especially while young and growing. Daily walks and play are recommended.43Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a St. Bernard's teeth and ears?
Brush your St. Bernard's teeth two to three times a week, ideally daily, using dog toothpaste only. Check ears weekly and dry them gently, as floppy ears trap moisture. Never push anything into the ear canal.10Pet Wiki plan
How long does a St. Bernard live?
A St. Bernard typically lives 8 to 10 years. Senior years usually start around age 6, so regular vet check-ups become even more important then.432Pet Wiki plan
Is a St. Bernard good with children and other pets?
Yes, St. Bernards are famously good-natured, patient, and careful around children. They are devoted family dogs and generally get along well with other pets when properly socialized.1542
Can a St. Bernard be left alone?
St. Bernards are devoted family dogs that love being with their people, so they may struggle with long periods alone. It varies by individual; ask a good breeder or your vet for advice on your dog's needs.52
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Leonberger
Newfoundland
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog