Saint Bernard grooming: brushing, bathing and shedding
A practical grooming routine for the Saint Bernard: coat care, baths, nails and ears.
Both coat types shed, and both have a heavy seasonal blowout, usually in spring and again in autumn. Brush smooth coats once or twice a week and rough coats two or three times a week with a slicker brush and an undercoat rake, paying extra attention to the feathering on the legs, behind the ears and on the tail. Bathing a giant is a project, so many owners use a self-service dog wash or a groomer every couple of months.
The face needs daily care. Drool collects in the loose lips and skin folds, so wipe the mouth after meals and drinks and check under the lips for redness or a sour smell. Look at the eyes too, since loose lower lids can collect dust and debris. Keep nails short, because long nails change how a heavy dog stands and puts extra strain on its feet.
Saint Bernard grooming in numbers
This is an illustrative schedule based on our editorial grooming score, not a breed-specific care protocol. Coat condition, skin problems and professional advice may call for a different routine.
| Task | Planning example |
|---|---|
| Brushing | 2 to 3 times a week |
| Bathing | Every 6 to 8 weeks |
| Shedding | Heavy, with seasonal blowouts |
| Nail trim | Every 3 to 4 weeks |
| Ear check | Weekly |
| Teeth | Daily brushing; introduce gently and ask your vet if the mouth seems painful |
Coat
Either smooth and dense or medium-long and rough, both over a thick undercoat built for alpine cold.
Grooming needs
Shedding
Drooling