Why This Breed Matters
The Saint Bernard is the legendary Alpine rescue dog. For centuries, monks at the Great St. Bernard Hospice used these dogs to find and rescue travelers lost in the snow. The brandy barrel around the neck is a myth, but the rescues were real. They're genetically programmed to locate humans in distress and provide warmth. Modern Saints are family dogs, but the gentle, nurturing temperament remains.
Ownership Reality
Saints drool. Rivers of drool. Keep towels everywhere. They shed year-round with major coat blows seasonally. They overheat easily and need climate control. Food costs are substantial ($150+ monthly). They don't need intense exercise — moderate walks are fine, and puppies need restricted exercise to protect growing joints. Bloat is a major risk. The flip side is one of the most patient, gentle temperaments in dogdom. They're phenomenal with kids, calm indoors, and devoted to family.
Buy If
You want a gentle giant that's great with kids. You have space and climate control. You can handle the drool. You want a calm, patient companion.
Skip If
You can't handle drool. You live in a hot climate without AC. You want an athletic dog. You're not prepared for giant breed costs.
Temperament
- Patient and gentle
- Watchful
- Friendly
- Calm indoors
- Devoted to family
Common Health Issues
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Bloat/GDV
- Osteosarcoma
- Dilated cardiomyopathy
- Entropion/ectropion
- Epilepsy