Saint Bernard

The Gentle Giant
A living teddy bear with a giant heart—and an equally giant everything else. Saint Bernards are sweet, slow-moving companions who see no reason to rush through life.

Experienced Owner

Saint Bernards are wonderfully mellow, but they still need thoughtful leadership. Their sheer size requires confident, experienced owners who can set early boundaries and maintain consistency.

Tail Of The Tape

Trait
Low
High
Height
25.5
in
27.5
in
Weight
120
lbs
180
lbs
Lifespan
8
yrs
10
yrs
Activity Needs
Low
Low
Low
Low
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.
Trainability
Average
Average
Average
They’re eager to please but can be stubborn when the mood strikes. Keep training light, positive, and very patient.
kid compatability
Kids
Kids
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.
grooming needs
High
High
High
That massive coat needs regular brushing to stay tangle-free, and they shed year-round. Heavy seasonal blowouts and lots of drool come standard.
noise level
Quiet
Quiet
Quiet
Quiet. Their bark is impressive when it happens, but they're not prone to constant noise.
Good for Allergies
No
No
Not hypoallergenic—heavy shedders and prolific droolers.

What It's Like To Own One

Living with a Saint Bernard feels like living with a walking, drooling weighted blanket. They’re affectionate to the bone, slow to rile, and endlessly tolerant of chaos—especially when kids are involved. Expect them to lean on you (literally and figuratively) for comfort and company.

They’re not into long hikes or intense games, but they love gentle play, short outings, and marathon cuddle sessions. The downside?

They drool. A lot.

And their size means even their accidents are...well, giant. But for the right family, they’re pure, slobbery love.

Personality Snapshot

• 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

Breed Embodiment

John Candy
Big-hearted, funny, and effortlessly comforting.

Fictional Owners

Fiona Gallagher
Tough, resilient, and fiercely loyal to her messy, loving family.
Bob Belcher (Bob’s Burgers)
Steady, patient, and unfailingly loving—even when life gets chaotic.
Coach Eric Taylor
Steady, compassionate, and the emotional anchor for everyone around him.

Where They Want To Live

Saint Bernards need space to stretch out and a family to love. They thrive in homes with big yards, cooler climates, and cozy spots to snooze after short bursts of activity. They’re suburban sweethearts at heart—happiest when surrounded by calm routines, noisy kids, and people who don’t mind the occasional drool puddle. A home that’s welcoming, relaxed, and full of affection is their perfect fit.

Dating Profile

Gentle giant seeks patient companion. I’m slow-moving, fiercely loyal, and happiest when I’m near my people (preferably napping). Looking for someone who loves big hugs, short walks, and long, lazy afternoons. Bonus points if you have a towel handy and don’t mind sharing your couch with 150 pounds of pure love.

Things To Know

• 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

Gear Guide

• 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

Bottom Line

Discover the tender, slobbery charm of the Saint Bernard—a massive, gentle family dog who believes love is best delivered at 150 pounds.