Saint Bernard

aka -
Saint, St. 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.
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.

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What It's Like To Own One

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.

Tail Of The Tape

Trait
Low
High
Height
25.5
in
27.5
in
Weight
120
lbs
180
lbs
Lifespan
8
yrs
10
yrs

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

Health Watch: Common Breed Risks

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 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.

Dating Profile

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.

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

Coat Types & Color Variety

Diet & Nutrition Needs

💡 Health Care Tips

Bottom Line

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.

Additional Resources