Saint Bernard
giant breed
Low activity
Average lifespan: 9 years
About the Saint Bernard
Developed by monks at the Great St Bernard Hospice in the Swiss Alps to rescue travelers stranded in snow, with a lineage dating back centuries. Massive and powerfully built, with a dense coat in either a short or long variety and a famously kind, droopy-eyed expression.
Temperament
Gentle, patient, and calm, the Saint Bernard is a devoted family companion known for its tolerance with children despite its enormous size.
Common health issues
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Bloat / gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV)
- Osteosarcoma
- Entropion
Grooming needs
The dense coat, whether short or long, sheds heavily and needs brushing at least twice a week, along with regular cleaning of facial folds and drool-prone jowls.
This information is general and educational — it isn't a substitute for advice from your veterinarian,
who knows your individual dog's health history.
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