The Gentle Giant: Understanding Your Saint Bernard’s Temperament
Saint Bernards are famously described as gentle giants, and from my years and owner of two Saints, I can confirm that label fits perfectly – with a few caveats. These dogs were originally bred for alpine rescue, which required strength, endurance, and a calm temperament in crisis. That heritage gives them a patient, people-oriented personality. They are rarely aggressive and usually fantastic with children, often tolerating poking and pulling with a saintly level of patience. However, they can be stubborn, and their size means even minor behavioral issues become major problems.
Early socialization is crucial. Expose your Saint Bernard puppy to different people, sounds, and environments. Because they mature slowly (both physically and mentally), you have a long window for positive training. But don’t mistake their mellow demeanor for disinterest. Saints form deep bonds with their families and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone too long. They are not guard dogs; a stranger is more likely to be slobbered on than growled at.
One thing every owner must prepare for is the drool. Yes, it’s constant, especially after drinking or eating. Keep a drool rag handy and wipe the heavy jowls regularly. Other than that, they are fairly calm indoors and don’t require excessive exercise – a couple of moderate walks per day suffice. They do overheat easily, so avoid vigorous activity in hot weather.
Training and Socialization: What Every Owner Should Know
Training a Saint Bernard requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. They are sensitive to harsh corrections, which can lead to fearfulness. Start basic obedience early: sit, stay, down, and a reliable recall. Given their size, a dog that pulls on leash or jumps can be dangerous, so loose-leash walking and not jumping on people are mandatory skills.
Because they are large and strong, I recommend crate training for safety and housebreaking. Be prepared – housebreaking can take longer than with smaller breeds, partly because puppies have small bladders relative to their size. Clean up accidents with an enzymatic cleaner to avoid repeat marking.
Socialization extends to other dogs and animals. Saints generally get along with other pets, especially if raised together, but their size can intimidate smaller dogs. Always supervise interactions and teach kids how to approach and pet the dog gently. If you have a fenced yard, check the fence height – a determined Saint can clear a low barrier.
Health considerations during training: Saints are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat (GDV), and heart conditions like subaortic stenosis. Keep them lean – excess weight worsens joint issues. Avoid strenuous exercise on full stomachs to reduce bloat risk. Discuss with your vet about gastropexy (stomach tacking) to prevent bloat. And never skip annual check-ups and screening for heart murmurs.
Health and Lifecare: Keeping Your Saint Bernard Happy
Saint Bernards have a shorter lifespan, typically 8-10 years, and require dedicated veterinary care. Their thick double coat sheds heavily, especially in spring and fall. Brush several times weekly to manage shedding and prevent matting. They are also prone to skin infections in the skin folds – keep the jowls and tail fold clean and dry.
Diet matters: feed a high-quality large-breed puppy food until they are 18-24 months old to control growth rate and reduce joint issues. Adults need a balanced diet; I recommend splitting meals into two to lower bloat risk. Fresh water always available, but elevated bowls may reduce air swallowing.
Exercise needs are moderate – Saints are not marathon runners. Two 30-minute walks daily plus some playtime is adequate. They love snow and cool weather but are not suited for hot climates. If you live in a warm area, provide air conditioning, cool flooring, and avoid walks during peak heat. Signs of overheating include excessive panting, drooling, and lethargy – move them to a cool area and offer water, then consult your vet if symptoms persist.
Common health issues I see in Saints include entropion (eyelids rolling inward), eyelid tumors, and hypothyroidism. Watch for squinting, redness, or excessive tearing in eyes; weight gain, hair loss, or lethargy can signal thyroid problems. Treatment is usually simple with medication or surgery. Joint supplements like glucosamine-chondroitin may help, but always discuss with your vet first.
Finally, owning a Saint Bernard is a commitment to drool wipe-ups, shedding, and a large food bill, but the reward is a loyal, sweet-natured companion who will adore your family. They are not for everyone – your home must accommodate their size, your schedule must allow for companionship, and your bank account must handle vet care. But for those who understand the breed, the love of a Saint Bernard is unmatched.
Remember: if you notice any concerning symptoms, always consult your veterinarian for advice tailored to your pet.
Key Takeaway
Saint Bernards are gentle, loyal giants that need dedicated training, drool management, and preventive vet care to thrive as family pets.