St. Bernards are intelligent and eager to please but may be a bit stubborn. Early socialization and training are essential to manage their size and strength, especially during adolescence. They thrive on gentle, positive reinforcement and consistent leadership. Their temperament makes them excellent therapy or family dogs in the right environment.

Their thick coat can be short or long and needs weekly brushing to manage shedding and tangles. They're moderate droolers and may require regular face wiping. Due to their large size, they're prone to health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and heart conditions. Responsible breeding, a proper diet, and joint care are crucial to their longevity.

• Origin: Switzerland

• Breed Group: Working

• Lifespan: 8–10 years

• Size: 26–30 inches tall, 120–180+ pounds

• Coat Type: Dense, short or long

• Temperament: Gentle, loyal, calm

• Exercise Needs: Moderate

• Training Needs: Moderate – train early due to size

• Grooming Needs: Moderate

• Health: Prone to hip dysplasia, bloat, and cardiac issues

The St. Bernard is one of the most iconic giant dog breeds, developed by monks in the Swiss Alps to help rescue lost or injured travelers. With its massive size, thick coat, and soulful eyes, this breed is instantly recognizable and widely admired for its gentle and tolerant temperament. Despite their powerful frame, St. Bernards are famously patient and affectionate—especially with children.

Though calm indoors, St. Bernards need space due to their size and benefit from moderate daily activity. They’re not built for intense exercise or heat but enjoy short walks, cooler weather, and companionship. Their slow-maturing nature means they remain puppy-like in behavior for longer than most breeds, often displaying goofy affection well into adulthood.