There are two coat types. Long haired dogs have a dense, flat coat that is rather fuller around the neck and the thighs, and the tail is well feathered. Short haired have a close, hound like coat, with slight feathering on the thighs and tail.

The Saint Bernard generally loves being bathed and brushed, but don’t take any chances – get it used to being groomed from a young age. Because of its size, a helper may be required.

Grooming the Coat

This is a dog with a fair acreage of coat to be groomed.

Equipment needed: Slicker brush, medium-or wide-toothed comb.

• Brush the Saint Bernard with a slicker to remove dead hairs.
• Comb with a medium or wide-toothed comb.
• Bathe the dog in a suitable shampoo, using white-enhancing shampoo on white parts to give a finish of splendor. Do not use any shampoo that will affect the coat if you intend to show your dog.
• A purifying shampoo and mask can be used three times a year, if required, for that extra-special finish — but is not for frequent use.
• Blast the excess water from the coat with a power dryer or use super absorbent towels.
• Then blow-dry.
• Don’t forget to check the St. Bernard’s nails, ears and teeth.
• Remove untidy hairs on the hocks with thinning shears.
• Additional trimming of the hair on the feet is
  sometimes required on the long haired variety.
• The ears need plucking and the underline should be tidied with scissors.
• With the show dog, consideration must be given to the condition of the coat when bathing, as too much undercoat may be pulled out, leaving the dog looking short of coat.