Saint Bernard: Is this gentle giant dog the right choice for you? (2024)

If you’re considering bringing a dog into your home, you probably have an idea of some characteristics you’d like, if not precisely, the breed (or mix) you desire.

It’s critical to study everything about the breed you’re considering, especially if you’re considering adopting one of the most giant dog breeds.

Ultimately, the dog should be comfortable and happy, and you shouldn’t feel over your head.

If you’re considering a big dog, a Saint Bernard is an exceptional choice.

Famous for their noble history

One of the largest working dog breeds, the St. Bernard is big, intelligent, and strong, with a good disposition.

The breed is named after Bernard of Menthon, a monk who founded a Swiss Alps hospice circa 1050. The hospice assisted pilgrims traveling through the snowy mountains, who would often get buried in snowdrifts and avalanches.

Saint Bernards were skilled at finding and rescuing these travelers; monastery documents show that the dogs saved more than 2,000 people.

Saints also guarded the grounds of Hospice Saint Bernard in Switzerland.

This giant dog’s sheer size and loud bark make them good watchdogs.

Big!

The St. Bernard giant is one of the world’s most beloved breeds.

They can be nearly ideal companions if space isn’t an issue.

Males can grow to 30 inches tall and 180 pounds. Females are typically smaller than males (around 140 pounds max).

Health issues

Unfortunately, bigger dogs like Saint Bernards tend to have shorter lifespans (typically eight to ten years) than smaller breeds.

Their size also contributes to health issues such as hip dysplasia and a severe condition called bloat (distending and twisting of the stomach).

To reduce the chance of bloat, the dog should eat a few small meals daily and avoid exercise around mealtimes.

Gentle giants

Saints are intelligent, gentle giants. Their mellow temperament, patience, and protectiveness make them great with children.

They’re good-natured and need lots of human interaction. They love attention, whether playing ball outside or snuggling in front of the television.

They also tend to keep their playful puppy personality longer than most dogs.

A little messy

These pups are big-time shedders. The first step to learning about Saint Bernard grooming needs is having the right tools (e.g., a dog de-shedder).

Brush and de-shed at least a couple of times a week. Saints have a propensity for making a mess.

In addition to excessive shedding, they also drool and, if given half a chance, are good at tracking in mud and dirt. Sofa covers, towels, and dirt- and debris-trapping floor mats will save you time and money.

Training needs

Training should start immediately, and participants should be exposed to many situations, sights, sounds, and various people and animals.

Their size makes socialization especially important around strangers and small children. Although they’re generally careful around kids, they can accidentally hurt them by knocking them down.

Saints can also be a little stubborn, so it’s best to start rewarding good behavior early unless you want to lug a squirmy 180-pound dog to the car for a vet visit.

Start with basic obedience training while the dogs are puppies.

Crate training is essential for housetraining, and the crate will probably become your pup’s place of relaxation and refuge. So, never use a crate as a punishment.

Ensure the crate is big enough (tall enough to stand up in and long enough to turn around comfortably, lay down, and stretch out).

Moderate exercise needs

Saints don’t need much exercise, but one good daily walk is ideal for this giant breed.

They don’t do well in the heat, so you must be mindful of overheating signs and provide lots of cool water.

Saints, however, love to frolic in the snow!

Saint Bernard care needs

Here are some essential care needs for Saint Bernards:

Grooming

Saint Bernards are heavy shedders and require regular grooming to manage their coat.

Invest in a high-quality dog de-shedder and brush your dog’s coat at least twice weekly.

Saint Bernards are prone to drooling and tracking in mud and dirt, so it’s essential to have sofa covers, towels, and dirt-and debris-trapping floor mats to minimize mess.

Feeding

Due to their large size, Saint Bernards have specific dietary needs.

They should be fed a balanced diet with high-quality dog food to support their health.

To reduce the risk of bloat, a severe condition that affects large dogs, it’s recommended that they eat several small meals throughout the day and avoid vigorous exercise around mealtimes.

Health maintenance

Like many large breeds, Saint Bernards are prone to specific health issues such as hip dysplasia and bloat.

Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor their health and address potential issues.

It’s also crucial to provide moderate exercise, as they don’t do well in heat but enjoy frolicking in the snow.

Ideal living conditions

Saint Bernards are gentle giants that thrive in spacious living areas. Due to their large size, they are best suited for homes with ample indoor and outdoor space.

Due to their size and exercise needs, they are not well-suited for apartment living. A house with a fenced yard allows them to move around and explore.

Saint Bernards are known for their love of cold weather and snow, so they are well-suited for regions with cooler climates. However, as they are sensitive to heat, ensuring they have a cool and shaded area during warmer weather is important.

While Saint Bernards are generally good with children and other pets, early socialization and training are crucial.

Additionally, their size makes supervising interactions with small children essential to prevent accidental injury.

Saint Bernards thrive in loving homes with plenty of space to roam and play.

Are the big dogs compatible with other pets?

Saint Bernards are generally known to be gentle and good-natured, making them compatible with other pets in the household.

Their patient and protective nature can make them great companions for other animals.

However, due to their large size, it’s essential to introduce them to other pets gradually and carefully to ensure a harmonious relationship.

Proper socialization and training from an early age can help Saint Bernards coexist peacefully with other pets.

Supervising their interactions with smaller animals is crucial, as their size and exuberance can unintentionally overwhelm or intimidate smaller pets.

The bottom line on the giant Saint Bernard

No matter what breed you decide to adopt, choose a reputable breeder.

They can show bloodline health documentation and provide information on the parents’ characteristics (e.g., appearance and disposition). To find an American Kennel Club-registered breeder, visit the AKC Marketplace.

Various rescue options are also available. To adopt a Saint Bernard, check Petfinder.com.

Don’t feel rushed; take the time to find your perfect puppy companion.

Emily Burton has loved dogs since she was young. She enjoys adventuring in the Colorado Rockies with her Australian Shepherd and two kids.

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