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Saint Bernard

Saint Bernard is a giant working breed from Switzerland also known as St. Bernard, Alpine Mastiff.

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Saint Bernard

Breed overview

Saint Bernard is a giant working breed from Switzerland also known as St. Bernard, Alpine Mastiff.

A giant working breed from the Swiss/Italian Alps, originally bred by monks at the Saint Bernard Hospice for rescue missions in the treacherous mountain passes.

People looking into Saint Bernard usually prepare for Moderate exercise needs, Moderate grooming needs, 120–180 lbs • 26–30 in.

St. BernardAlpine Mastiff

History and origin

Saint Bernard is tied to originating from Switzerland, specifically Swiss Alps, with sources often placing its development around 1050 CE.

Saint Bernard is described here as placed in the Working group and marked as an established breed.

A giant working breed from the Swiss/Italian Alps, originally bred by monks at the Saint Bernard Hospice for rescue missions in the treacherous mountain passes.

Browse dog breeds from Switzerland Browse more Working breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
Working
Size
Giant
Origin country
Switzerland
Region
Swiss Alps
Origin year
1050 CE
Weight
120–180 lbs
Height
26–30 in
Lifespan
8–10 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
2 / 5
Trainability
3 / 5
Good with children
5 / 5
Shedding level
4 / 5
Barking tendency
2 / 5
Moderate exercise needsModerate grooming needsChildren score: 5/5Trainability: 3/5

Coat and classification

Saint Bernard is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

DenseSmoothRough

Saint Bernard is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Massive head with wrinkled brow
  • Extremely large, powerful body
  • Comes in both rough and smooth coat varieties
  • Red and white or mahogany and white coloring

What this breed is known for

  • A giant working breed from the Swiss/Italian Alps, originally bred by monks at the Saint Bernard Hospice for rescue missions in the treacherous mountain passes.
  • Saint Bernards are massive, powerful dogs with a gentle expression.
  • They are known for their calm, benevolent nature and are especially patient with children.

Health and care notes

Saint Bernard is noted here for Moderate exercise needs and Moderate grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Heart Conditions

Coat details: Dense, Smooth, Rough

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Saint Bernard come from?

Saint Bernard is closely associated with Switzerland, especially Swiss Alps in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Saint Bernard get?

Typical size details for Saint Bernard on this page are 120–180 lbs, 26–30 in, 8–10 years.

What is the Saint Bernard known for?

A giant working breed from the Swiss/Italian Alps, originally bred by monks at the Saint Bernard Hospice for rescue missions in the treacherous mountain passes.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Saint Bernard reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.