Saint Bernard

As a giant breed, the Saint Bernard has a comparatively short lifespan of around 8 to 10 years. Big dogs tend to live shorter lives than smaller ones, so prospective owners should go into ownership clear-eyed about this. Keeping the dog lean, feeding appropriately and providing routine preventive care all support the best possible quality of life.

Saint Bernards are enormous. The breed stands roughly 65–90 cm at the shoulder and weighs somewhere in the region of 54–82 kg, with males in particular being very substantial. They have a massive head and powerful frame, so anyone considering one needs the space, budget and realism to take on a dog of this scale.

Saint Bernards are renowned for a calm, patient and affectionate temperament and are often particularly good with children. They tend to lean against you for affection rather than bounce around. That said, their sheer bulk means supervision around small children is wise, and puppies can be clumsy and boisterous before they mature.

Yes. Saint Bernards are notable droolers, and owners should be prepared to wipe the face and mouth area regularly. Along with heavy shedding and a large appetite, drool is one of the practical trade-offs of the breed. Anyone unable to cope with this aspect of giant-dog ownership should think carefully before choosing one.

Saint Bernards have moderate exercise needs and are relatively low-energy for their size, generally content with a couple of steady walks a day plus time to potter and relax at home. Take care with growing puppies, as over-exercise during growth can strain developing joints, and avoid exercising in the heat as the breed is sensitive to warm weather.

Both the smooth and rough coats shed considerably, so brushing several times a week — and daily during heavy moults — helps manage loose hair. The long-haired variety needs a little more attention to prevent tangles. Routine care also includes nail trimming, dental brushing, ear checks and keeping facial folds clean and dry.

Like most giant breeds, Saint Bernards are prone to size-related problems including hip and elbow dysplasia, heart conditions, certain cancers and the emergency of bloat. Responsible breeders screen for hip, elbow, eye and heart conditions, so ask to see parents' health-test results. Keeping the dog lean and being alert to the signs of bloat are important.

Yes. A Saint Bernard needs a home with plenty of space, both indoors and out, and is not suited to small flats. Owners also need to manage the practicalities of a giant dog — the drool, shedding, food bills and higher veterinary costs. In a roomy family home, however, they are calm, affectionate and famously good-natured companions.

Excellent with children of all ages. As a general guide, Saint Bernards tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.

As a healthy adult, a typical Saint Bernard needs around 30 minutes (gentle, broken into shorter walks) of exercise a day (30–45 minutes), split across walks plus play. A good sniffy walk plus some play and training usually keeps them happy. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.

High shedding. Coat upkeep is regular brushing — brush regularly to keep the coat in good condition.

Manageable for committed beginners. Saint Bernards are best for owners ready to commit to consistent training and plenty of activity. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.

Quiet. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.

Sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.

Needs plenty of space. A Saint Bernard really needs plenty of space and a lot of daily activity — not ideal for a small flat.