Saint Bernard Training

The Saint Bernard is a giant breed known for its gentle nature, intelligence, and strong work ethic.

Originally bred for rescue work in the Swiss Alps, these dogs are incredibly loyal, affectionate, and patient. Despite their calm temperament, their massive size and strength make structured training essential from an early age. While they are generally eager to please, Saint Bernards can be slow to mature, meaning training must be consistent, patient, and adapted to their physical and mental development.

Common Behavioural Challenges

Saint Bernards are known for their calm and affectionate temperament, but their large size and natural instincts can present unique training challenges.

Without structured training, these behaviours can become difficult to manage, particularly as they grow into powerful adults.

Addressing these challenges early ensures they remain well-mannered and obedient.

Leash Pulling

Saint Bernards grow rapidly and can reach enormous sizes, with some adults weighing over 80kg. If they are not taught proper lead manners from an early age, even an unintentional pull could knock over an owner or cause injuries. Due to their sheer strength, Saint Bernards must be taught loose-lead walking, heel work, and impulse control to ensure safe and enjoyable walks.

Slow Maturity

Despite their intelligence, Saint Bernards mature slowly, both mentally and physically. Puppies may remain puppy-like in behaviour for longer than other breeds, leading to periods of stubbornness. This slow development means that training requires extra patience and consistency to reinforce commands. Using short, engaging training sessions with plenty of positive reinforcement helps maintain their focus and prevents frustration.

Protective Instincts

Although generally friendly, Saint Bernards have natural guardian instincts. If not properly socialised, they can become overprotective or wary of strangers. Early exposure to different people, environments, and other dogs is key to ensuring they develop confidence in new situations. Gradual introductions and positive experiences help prevent territorial or overly cautious behaviour.

Jumping & Drooling

Many Saint Bernards do not realise their own size, which can lead to problems such as jumping up for attention or unintentionally knocking over furniture, children, or guests. Teaching polite greetings and impulse control is essential to prevent these behaviours. Additionally, their excessive drooling can lead to unwanted mess in the home. Training them to stay in designated areas after meals or to use specific drool towels can help manage this common issue.

Our Expertise in Saint Bernard Training

We understand the unique challenges that come with training a giant breed like the Saint Bernard. Our structured training programmes ensure they grow into well-mannered, manageable companions.

Leash Training and Strength Control

We focus on teaching loose-lead walking and impulse control to prevent pulling. Structured training sessions reinforce walking calmly by their handler’s side, ensuring safe, controlled walks even as they grow.

Household Manners

We focus on teaching polite greetings, preventing jumping up, and managing their size in the home. Training includes reinforcing calm behaviours, impulse control, and structured feeding routines to manage drooling.

Building Focus & Patience

Due to their slow maturity, we implement short, engaging training sessions tailored to their learning pace. Using reward-based training keeps their interest and prevents them from becoming stubborn or disengaged.

Socialisation & Confidence Building

Our training methods include structured socialisation to ensure Saint Bernards develop confidence around new people, dogs, and environments. This reduces the risk of overprotectiveness or nervousness.