Saint Bernard
Loving, protective and strong
St. Bernards 101
Working groupFrom 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.
What we love about St. Bernards
A loving lug of a dog
Very vocal
Talkative
As needed
My pet’s health plannerSM
Mature adult St. Bernard
Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions
Hip dysplasia
Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
Senior St. Bernard
Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions
Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
Hip dysplasia
Arthritis
St. Bernard puppy
Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions
Urinary tract infection
Ear infection
Foreign body ingestion
Young adult St. Bernard
Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions
Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
Hip dysplasia
Seizures
Mature adult St. Bernard
Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions
Hip dysplasia
Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
Senior St. Bernard
Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions
Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
Hip dysplasia
Arthritis
St. Bernard puppy
Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions
Urinary tract infection
Ear infection
Foreign body ingestion
Young adult St. Bernard
Risk level for common St. Bernard conditions
Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
Hip dysplasia
Seizures
Nationwide can help you save on your Saint Bernard's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
Get your Saint Bernard’s health information in a free report
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.
How often should I bathe my Saint Bernard?
Saint Bernards can be bathed monthly, weekly or as needed (if they roll in mud, for example!). Use a pet-specific shampoo and conditioner or an all-in-one product. If your dog’s coat or skin isn’t looking healthy, check with your veterinary healthcare team to see what might be causing the problem.
Should I cut my Saint Bernard’s hair?
Saint Bernards usually don't need haircuts, unless they get severely matted or have debris in their coats that cannot be brushed or combed out.
How often should I brush my Saint Bernard?
During the shedding season (spring and fall), daily raking and brushing of your Saint Bernard down to the skin will reduce the amount of fur you find everywhere. Otherwise, a thorough weekly combing and brushing will do.
St. Bernard exercise & training
St. Bernard fun facts
Top girl names for St. Bernards
of St. Bernards are female
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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