9 things to know before owning a Saint Bernard
Thinking about adding a Saint Bernard to your family? You already know they melt hearts on screen — but living with one is a whole different movie.
Here's the honest truth: these gentle giants are sweet, smart, and endlessly affectionate. They're also enormous, drooly, and not for everyone.
So before you fall for those soulful eyes, let's walk through the 9 things you really need to know — the good, the messy, and the "are you sure about this?"
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Affection | |
| Family-friendly | |
| Trainability | |
| Apartment living | |
| Mess factor |
Let's start with what's going on behind those big brown eyes.
1. They're Smart — But Not Show-Offs
Saint Bernards were bred to find and rescue people buried in alpine snow. That's not a job for a dummy.
They're genuinely intelligent. But here's the thing: they don't seek approval by doing endless tricks. They're the mellow, thoughtful type — especially as adults.
Still, a bored Saint is a problem waiting to happen. They need regular mental stimulation to stay balanced.
Now, about that 150-pound dog listening to you...
2. Training Isn't Optional — It's Survival
The good news? Saints are eager to please and respond beautifully to positive reinforcement.
The catch? You need to start early and stay consistent.
Think about it: some of these dogs top out at 180 pounds. A dog that big deciding not to listen isn't a quirk — it's a safety issue.
“You don't want a 150-pound dog deciding not to listen.”
Golden rules for training a giant
- Start as a puppySmall habits are cute at 15 lbs and dangerous at 150.
- Keep it positiveRewards work far better than force with this sensitive breed.
- Make it funShort, rewarding sessions beat long, boring ones.
- Be consistentEveryone in the house follows the same rules and words.
Some Saints have a stubborn streak, so patience matters. But put the work in early and you'll save yourself years of stress.
Here's the part everyone falls in love with.
3. They're Big, Soft-Hearted Lovebugs
This might be the best thing about the breed. Saint Bernards are total cuddlers who form deep, loyal bonds with their humans.
They're usually fantastic with kids, too. Just remember: a dog this size can knock over a toddler by accident, even when being gentle.
Young kids
Great, with supervisionSweet and patient, but their size means accidental bumps happen.
Older children
ExcellentGentle playmates who love being part of the action.
Strangers
Surprisingly friendlyTheir alpine-shelter history made them welcoming, not wary.
Time home alone
Needs companyThey dislike solitude and thrive with people around.
Unlike many big breeds, Saints tend to greet guests like old friends — a legacy of centuries spent living and working around travelers.
But what about the cat, or the dog you already own?
4. They Usually Get Along with Other Pets
Most Saint Bernards do great with other dogs and even cats — especially when raised together or introduced properly.
Their laid-back nature helps a lot. That said, some can show a bit of dominance if they weren't socialized early.
Now for the first big reality check.
5. They're Not Apartment Dogs
Let's be blunt. Saint Bernards need space.
A cramped apartment — or even a small home without a yard — just isn't going to cut it.
These dogs thrive in larger homes with a securely fenced yard where they can stretch out, move comfortably, and just... exist at their scale.
Quick poll
Do you have the space for a Saint Bernard?
Don't be fooled by the couch-potato act.
6. That Calm Demeanor Still Needs Exercise
Saints may act like professional loungers, but they still need daily movement to stay healthy.
A couple of good walks, some playtime, and even a job — many love pulling a cart — keep them fit and happy.
Skip the exercise and they'll gain weight fast, which stacks extra strain onto joints that already carry a lot.
- Two moderate walks a day
- Playtime and light games
- A "job" like cart-pulling they can enjoy
- Intense running on hot days
- Skipping exercise because they seem lazy
Okay. Deep breath. Let's talk about the mess.
7. Grooming and Mess: Be Ready
This is not the breed for clean freaks. Let's just get that out of the way.
Saint Bernards drool — a lot. They also shed, snore, track mud through the house, and yes, they're famous for the occasional gassy moment.
Regular brushing, ear cleaning, and occasional baths are simply part of the deal.
Pros
What you sign up for
- Soft, huggable coat
- A dog that makes the house feel full
- Constant comic relief
Cons
What you'll actually deal with
- Drool ribbons on your walls
- Fur on everything you own
- Muddy paw prints and epic snoring
Now the part every future owner needs to read twice.
8. Health Concerns You Should Know
Big dogs often come with big health risks, and Saint Bernards are no exception.
The breed is prone to issues like hip dysplasia, bloat, epilepsy, and certain skin conditions.
Good nutrition, regular vet checkups, and consistent grooming go a long way toward prevention.
Reputable Breeder
Pros
- Health-tested parents
- Full history & support
- Known temperament
Cons
- Higher upfront cost
- You may wait a while
Breed Rescue
Pros
- Often already trained
- Lower cost
- Rewarding
Cons
- Less known history
- May have quirks
Shelter
Pros
- Lowest cost
- Saving a life
Cons
- Giant breeds are rare here
- Unknown background
So — should you actually get one?
9. Is a Saint Bernard Right for You?
This breed is amazing. But amazing and low-maintenance are not the same thing.
Between their size, grooming needs, and emotional sensitivity, they ask for real commitment.
You're likely a great match if you have:
- A spacious home with a yard
- Time to spend with your dog every day
- Experience — or willingness to learn — training a large breed
- Patience for drool, hair, and muddy paws
Check those boxes, and a Saint Bernard can be one of the most loving, loyal companions you'll ever have.
“They'll make you laugh, cry, and occasionally mop the floor — but they'll climb right into your heart and stay there.”
Frequently Asked Questions
They can be, thanks to their gentle nature — but their size makes early training essential. A committed first-timer who is willing to learn and start young can absolutely succeed. If you want an easy, hands-off dog, look elsewhere.
Not long. They dislike solitude and can become anxious or destructive when left too many hours. A few hours is fine for an adult, but this is not a breed for people who are gone all day.
Generally no — they tend to be quiet and mellow. But when a dog this size does bark, you’ll certainly hear it. They may alert to visitors, then happily greet them.
Yes, they’re usually wonderful with kids. The main caution is their sheer size, which can knock over small children by accident. Always supervise play and teach both dog and child to be gentle.
Most are, especially if raised together or introduced carefully. Their laid-back personality helps, though early socialization is the key to smooth introductions.
For most owners, it’s the mess — the drool, shedding, and mud — combined with the space and health-monitoring demands. None of it is impossible, but it all adds up.
Many settle into their signature mellow demeanor around 2 to 3 years old. Adolescence (roughly 6–18 months) is the busiest stretch, so consistent training during that window pays off.
Sviatoslav Oleksiv founded The Pets and Love in 2019. A lifelong pet owner and Rhodesian Ridgeback enthusiast, he writes and edits our guides to help fellow pet parents give their animals the best care.
Every guide follows our editorial standards. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice — always consult a licensed veterinarian about your pet's health.