Short walks, yard time, and lots of lounging are their vibe. They’re surprisingly playful, but only for short bursts—then it’s back to snoozing like a champion.
They’re eager to please but can be stubborn when the mood strikes. Keep training light, positive, and very patient.
Incredibly patient with children and affectionate with family. They love being part of the daily hustle and bustle, preferably from a cozy spot where they can supervise without moving too much.
That massive coat needs regular brushing to stay tangle-free, and they shed year-round. Heavy seasonal blowouts and lots of drool come standard.
Quiet. Their bark is impressive when it happens, but they're not prone to constant noise.
Not hypoallergenic—heavy shedders and prolific droolers.
The St. Bernard is a giant dog breed originally developed in the Swiss Alps and northern Italy for rescue and working roles, particularly by the hospice monks of the Great St. Bernard Pass. Known for their power, patience, and deep loyalty, these dogs have long been associated with saving lives in harsh mountain conditions.
Adult males typically weigh between 150 and 220 pounds (68–100 kg) and stand 27.5 to 35 inches tall at the shoulder, making them one of the largest recognized dog breeds. There are two coat varieties: short-haired (smooth) and long-haired (rough), both of which require regular grooming due to their size and shedding.
Despite their imposing size, St. Bernards are famously gentle and affectionate. They are known for their calm demeanor and are generally excellent with children and other animals. However, because of their strength and size, early socialization and basic training are essential to ensure good manners and safety around others.
St. Bernards form strong bonds with their families and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. Without adequate mental stimulation or secure confinement, they may become destructive. Owners should provide a safe, contained space—such as a large crate or fenced yard—if they need to be away from home for extended periods.
Similar Dog Breeds: Newfoundland, Great Pyrenees, Bernese Mountain Dog, Mastiff
Living with a Saint Bernard is like sharing your home with a giant, drooling therapist who happens to nap a lot. They’re emotionally intuitive, incredibly affectionate, and built for comfort—not speed. These dogs bring a peaceful presence to busy households, calmly navigating the chaos of kids, visitors, or the occasional spilled snack with a slow wag and soulful eyes. Their response to most things? Lean in, lay down, and love harder.
You’ll find them quietly stationed at your feet (or halfway on your lap), always ready to provide warmth and quiet companionship. They aren’t high-energy, but they are high-contact—they want to be close, involved, and deeply connected. Their patience is legendary, their loyalty unwavering, and their size? Well… that’s just part of the package. They can accidentally knock things over just by turning around, and yes, the drool is real. But so is the love.
This isn’t the dog for minimalist spaces or hands-off owners. But for the family who wants a calm, cuddly guardian who loves without conditions—and doesn’t mind a little mop-up duty—a Saint Bernard delivers gentle devotion in giant, fluffy form.
• Mellow, patient, and affectionate
• Needs structure early due to sheer size
• Wonderful with children and other pets
• High-maintenance coat and lots of drool
• Low-energy but emotionally in-tune
Gentle giant seeks patient companion. I’m slow-moving, fiercely loyal, and happiest when I’m close to my people (preferably napping on your feet). I’m all about big hugs, short strolls, and long, lazy afternoons. I bring emotional support, comic relief, and the occasional lake of drool. Bonus points if you own a sturdy couch, a good towel, and a kind heart. If you’re the type who values loyalty over speed and cuddles over cardio, I might just be your ideal slobbery soulmate.
Saint Bernards need room to sprawl, people to love, and a lifestyle that leans more mellow than manic. They’re not built for tight apartments or tropical climates—instead, they thrive in spacious homes with big backyards, shaded patios, and plenty of cozy corners to claim as their own. Cooler climates are ideal, helping this thick-coated breed stay comfortable during downtime (which is most of the day).
Suburban homes with kids, fenced yards, and a laid-back rhythm are the sweet spot. They adore being part of the family routine—greeting visitors, napping through dinner prep, and standing guard over backyard playtime. What matters most isn’t square footage—it’s warmth, love, and the kind of household that doesn’t mind a little drool in exchange for a whole lot of heart. Give them gentle walks, space to stretch, and constant companionship, and a Saint Bernard will happily settle in as your home’s most huggable fixture.
• Drool is non-negotiable—have towels ready
• Early socialization helps prevent pushy behavior
• Exercise needs are low, but mental stimulation matters
• Joint health is a long-term priority
• Thrive best in cooler climates
• Extra-absorbent drool cloths (seriously)
• Grooming tools for heavy coats
• Orthopedic dog bed (they’re heavy on their joints)
• Cooling mats for hot days
• Sturdy raised feeders for comfortable eating
Size brings sensitivity:
• Hip and elbow dysplasia
• Dilated cardiomyopathy (heart disease)
• Bloat (gastric torsion—life-threatening emergency)
• Entropion and ectropion (eyelid issues)
• Osteosarcoma (bone cancer risk in some lines)
Early screening and careful weight management are essential.
Fluffy alpine icon:
• Comes in short-haired (smooth) and long-haired varieties
• Coat colors include white with red, mahogany, or brindle patches
• Heavy seasonal shedding, especially in spring and fall
• Regular brushing required to manage matting and drool
• Ears and eyes need routine checks due to size and folds
Iconic fur, manageable with a consistent grooming routine.
Big appetite, slow metabolism:
• Large-breed formula designed to support joint health
• Controlled growth diet in puppyhood to avoid orthopedic issues
• Feed multiple smaller meals to help prevent bloat
• Supplement with glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support
• Fresh water access is critical—especially in warm weather
Feed wisely—this is not a free-feeding breed.
Gentle giants need serious care:
• Avoid strenuous activity in warm temperatures—they overheat easily
• Start obedience training early—they’ll outweigh you soon
• Watch for signs of bloat and never exercise right after eating
• Provide cushioned bedding to protect joints
• Regular vet visits to monitor heart and joint health
Saint Bernards are slow, sweet, and sensitive—big love, big responsibility.
Saint Bernards are tender-hearted giants who bring warmth, loyalty, and a whole lot of slobber to every home they join. Bred for rescue but built for companionship, they’re the kind of dog who leans into love—literally. With their calm demeanor, affectionate nature, and deep devotion to their people, they’re ideal for families who want a laid-back yet deeply connected canine companion. Just make room on the couch—and keep a towel handy.
