Hard
Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is a massive Alpine rescue dog that comes in two coat varieties: longhaired and shorthaired, both with a dense double coat adapted for cold mountain conditions. The breed sheds heavily year-round, with significantly more shedding twice yearly during seasonal coat blows. Despite the size difference in the two coat varieties, both require consistent grooming to manage the volume of coat.
Coat Type
Dense Double Coat — Longhaired or Shorthaired Variety
Groom Every
Every 4-6 weeks
Styles Available
5 cuts
Cuts & Styles
Grooming Styles
1
Natural Coat
The Saint Bernard maintained in its full natural coat — longhaired or short — with a thorough bath, blow-dry, and undercoat removal. No trimming of the guard coat.
2
De-Shedding Treatment
An intensive session using de-shedding shampoo and conditioner, extended high-velocity blow-out, and thorough raking and brushing to fully evacuate loose undercoat. Most critical during seasonal blows.
3
Summer Tidy
Thorough undercoat thinning with appropriate tools to improve ventilation and comfort in hot weather. The guard coat is left intact to protect the skin from sunburn.
4
Show Preparation
A meticulous groom for the show ring including thorough cleansing, full blow-dry, and careful brushing to maximize coat quality and adherence to breed standards.
5
Puppy Groom
A positive, gentle introduction to the grooming table, bath, and dryer for Saint Bernard puppies — building the tolerance for what will be a significant grooming commitment in adulthood.
Expert Advice
Care Tips
- Saint Bernards drool copiously; wipe the muzzle, lip folds, and chest after every meal and water session. Left without cleaning, the combination of drool and dense coat creates a chronically wet, odorous area on the chest and neck.
- The sheer size of a Saint Bernard makes drying the coat a major undertaking — a high-velocity professional dryer is essential. Never allow a wet Saint Bernard's undercoat to air dry; the moisture creates hot spots and skin infections.
- Brush the longhaired variety at least three times per week; the coat around the neck, under the ears, and behind the forelegs mats fastest due to friction from the dog's size.
- Nail maintenance is urgent on a giant breed — overgrown nails shift the dog's foot position and place massive strain on the joints of a dog already predisposed to orthopedic problems.
- During the twice-yearly coat blow, the Saint Bernard can shed an extraordinary volume of undercoat. Daily brushing during this three to four week period and a professional de-shedding appointment dramatically reduce the volume deposited throughout the home.
Recommended Tools
What you'll need
Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush
BrushThe gold standard for poodles and doodles. Features long pins that penetrate deep into dense coats to remove tangles and fluff the hair.
$60 - $75
Miller's Forge Quality Nail Clipper
Nail CareUsed by professional groomers worldwide. Made of high-quality Italian stainless steel with a heavy-duty spring for clean, sharp cuts.
$10 - $15
Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
BrushAn excellent entry-level brush that's easy to clean. Great for removing loose fur and detangling shorter coats.
$15 - $25
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Deep Dives
Saint Bernard Grooming Guides
Summer Grooming
Heat management, coat care, and seasonal tips.
Read guide
Winter Coat Care
Cold-weather protection and moisture balance.
Read guide
Shedding Season
Survive the seasonal blowout without losing your mind.
Read guide
Prevent Matting
Detangle, prevent, and protect their coat year-round.
Read guide
Best Brushes
The right tools for this specific coat type.
Read guide
Nail Trimming
Safe nail care frequency and technique.
Read guide
Ear Cleaning
Prevent infections with proper ear care.
Read guide
Bathing Guide
How often to bathe and which products to use.
Read guide
Grooming Cost
What professional grooming should cost for this breed.
Read guide
Hypoallergenic
Shedding, dander, and allergy-friendly coat care.
Read guide
First-Time Owner
Grooming basics for new owners of this breed.
Read guide
Skin & Allergies
Itchy skin, hot spots, and coat-sensitive care.
Read guide
Dental Care
Oral hygiene tied to coat and skin health.
Read guide
Flea & Tick
Parasite prevention without damaging the coat.
Read guide
Pro vs DIY
When to groom at home and when to hire a pro.
Read guide
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