Saint Bernards are famously known for their gentle, calm, and patient temperament. They are friendly with children, respectful of adults, and often affectionate with other pets.

Their nurturing behavior makes them excellent therapy dogs and loving family pets. Although they are large, Saint Bernard dogs are not aggressive — they're affectionate and loyal, often forming deep bonds with their owners.

Their sweet-natured personality makes them a favorite among families, especially those with children.

Despite their size, Saint Bernards adapt well to various living environments when given proper space and care. While they do best in homes with yards, they can live comfortably in larger apartments with regular exercise and cool climates.

Because of their thick coat, they tolerate cold weather better than hot. Their low-energy indoor behavior makes them surprisingly manageable for their size — just be ready for a little drool and a lot of love.

Like many large breed dogs, Saint Bernards are prone to certain genetic health issues. Common concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and entropion (a condition affecting the eyelids).

It's essential to buy Saint Bernard puppies from reputable breeders who perform health screenings and provide vet-checked, vaccinated puppies. A balanced diet, moderate exercise, and routine vet checkups can help maintain your puppy’s long-term health.

Due to their size and strength, Saint Bernards are best suited for dog owners with some prior experience, especially in handling large breeds.

However, their eager-to-please nature and calm temperament make them relatively easy to train. First-time dog owners can succeed with a Saint Bernard if they commit to early training, positive reinforcement, and socialization.

Best For:
✔ Experienced or first-time owners willing to handle size.
✔ Families with space and time for grooming/exercise.
✔ Those wanting a loyal, low-energy companion.

Challenges:

• Drooling and shedding (daily cleanup needed).

• High food/vet costs (large breed = larger bills).

Saint Bernards have a thick double coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and reduce shedding.

Weekly brushing is recommended, and during shedding seasons (spring and fall), more frequent grooming is necessary.

Bathing every few months or when dirty helps manage their natural oils. Because they’re prone to drooling, owners should also regularly clean their mouth and face folds.

Though Saint Bernards are large, they are moderately active dogs. They enjoy daily walks, light playtime, and some off-leash time in a secure yard.

Their activity level is relatively low indoors, and they are not hyperactive. However, regular exercise is still essential to prevent obesity and support joint health.

Saint Bernards are giant breed dogs. Males typically weigh between 140–180 pounds, while females range from 120–140 pounds.

Their height at the shoulder ranges from 26 to 30 inches. As puppies, they grow quickly, so proper nutrition and controlled growth are essential during the first 12–18 months.

The average life expectancy of a Saint Bernard is between 8 to 10 years. While their lifespan is shorter than smaller breeds, their companionship, loyalty, and loving nature make every year special.

A healthy lifestyle, regular vet care, and responsible breeding can contribute to longer, healthier lives.

Saint Bernards were originally bred by monks at the Great St. Bernard Hospice in the Alps for rescue missions.

The breed's famous image of carrying a barrel of brandy around their neck is folklore, but it symbolizes their history of saving stranded travelers.

Saint Bernards hold world records for their size and weight, and they’re among the most photographed dog breeds.