Breed Guides

Saint Bernard Grooming Guide: Costs, Cuts & Care Tips (2026)

Complete guide to Saint Bernard grooming including costs, popular cuts, grooming frequency, and professional care tips.

Updated January 202610 min read
Saint Bernard with classic markings

Saint Bernards come in long and short coat varieties, both requiring regular grooming

Quick Answer:

Saint Bernard grooming costs $80-$130 every 6-8 weeks. Both coat types (long and short) shed heavily and require regular brushing. Their giant size adds to grooming time and cost.

Saint Bernard Grooming Costs

Here's what to expect for professional Saint Bernard grooming based on size and service type:

SizeWeightBasic GroomFull Groom
Saint Bernard120-180 lbs$80-$110$110-$130

Annual grooming costs: $640-$1,040 (based on grooming every 6-8 weeks).

For comparison with other breeds, see our complete dog grooming cost guide.

Saint Bernard Coat Type & Care

Saint Bernards come in two coat varieties: longhaired (medium-length, slightly wavy) and shorthaired (dense, smooth). Both have a thick undercoat. Colors are white with red or mahogany.

Coat TypeDouble
SheddingHeavy (constant with seasonal increases)
Grooming FrequencyEvery 6-8 weeks
Brushing2-3 times weekly (daily during shedding)
Grooming DifficultyMedium-High

Popular Saint Bernard Haircuts

Here are the most popular grooming styles for Saint Bernards:

Bath and Brush

Best for: All Saint Bernards

Thorough bathing, blow-drying, and complete brush-out. Light trimming for tidiness.

Maintenance: Regular home brushing

De-shedding Treatment

Best for: Managing heavy shedding

Specialized bath and intensive undercoat removal.

Maintenance: Reduces shedding significantly

Sanitary Trim

Best for: Hygiene maintenance

Trimming around rear end and paw pads for cleanliness.

Maintenance: As needed

Saint Bernard Grooming Schedule

Follow this schedule to keep your Saint Bernard looking and feeling their best:

  • Professional grooming: Every 6-8 weeks
  • Brushing: 2-3 times weekly, daily when shedding
  • Bathing: Every 6-8 weeks
  • Nail trimming: Every 3-4 weeks
  • Ear cleaning: Weekly

Puppy Grooming

Start grooming early while they are manageable size. Establish routine before they reach full giant size.

Senior Dog Grooming

Older Saints may have joint issues. Consider mobile grooming or facilities with ramps.

Find a Saint Bernard-experienced groomer

Search our directory for professional groomers experienced with Saint Bernards and similar breeds.

Find Groomers Near Me

Common Saint Bernard Grooming Problems

Heavy Shedding

Both coat types shed heavily year-round with seasonal increases.

Prevention: Regular brushing and de-shedding treatments.

Drooling

Excessive drooling can cause skin irritation and coat staining on chest.

Prevention: Keep drool wiped and clean chest fur regularly.

Size Challenges

Giant size makes grooming physically demanding.

Prevention: Start early, find experienced giant breed groomer.

At-Home Saint Bernard Grooming

Between professional grooms, here's what you need and how to maintain your Saint Bernard's coat at home.

Essential Tools

  • Undercoat rake
  • Slicker brush
  • Pin brush
  • Wide-tooth comb
  • Drool towels
  • Ear cleaner

Grooming Tips

  • Brush 2-3 times weekly minimum
  • Keep drool cleaned from chest and face folds
  • Ensure complete drying after baths
  • Groom outdoors in nice weather
  • Accept that shedding is constant

Finding a Saint Bernard-Experienced Groomer

Not all groomers are equally experienced with every breed. Here's what to look for when choosing a groomer for your Saint Bernard:

  • Find groomers experienced with giant breeds
  • Ensure facility can accommodate size
  • Ask about lifting assistance/ramps
  • Verify they can handle droolers

For more tips, see our Signs of a Good Dog Groomer guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Saint Bernard grooming cost?

$80-$130 per session due to their giant size.

Do Saint Bernards shed a lot?

Yes, both coat types are heavy shedders.

How often should a Saint Bernard be groomed?

Every 6-8 weeks professionally with regular brushing at home.

Is the long or short coat easier to maintain?

Short coat is slightly easier but both shed heavily.

Are Saint Bernards hard to groom?

Moderately challenging due to size, but they are usually gentle.

How do I manage Saint Bernard drool?

Keep towels handy and clean chest/face folds regularly.

The Bottom Line

Saint Bernard grooming requires professional appointments every 6-8 weeks, with costs ranging based on size and service level. Regular at-home maintenance between appointments keeps your Saint Bernard looking and feeling their best.

Find a groomer experienced with Saint Bernards, establish a consistent grooming schedule, and maintain regular brushing at home. Your Saint Bernard will thank you with a healthy, beautiful coat.

Find a Saint Bernard Groomer Near You

Search for professional groomers experienced with Saint Bernards.

Search Groomers