15 Dog Breeds Most Similar to St. Bernards

St. Bernards, also known as Saint Bernards, are truly remarkable creatures, revered for their affectionate and gentle nature. Famous for their heroic role as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps, these massive dogs thrive in cold climates. They are also gentle giants who make excellent family pets and particularly adore children. However, if a St. Bernard doesn’t quite fit your lifestyle, don’t worry. There are lots of other breeds with similar personalities and temperaments. Let’s take a look at some of the dog breeds that share many of the same charming qualities and characteristics of the St. Bernard! 

1. Newfoundland

Originating from Newfoundland in Canada, the Newfoundland is a big dog with an even bigger heart, much like a Saint Bernard. Affectionately known as “Newfies”, these gentle giants are famous for their sweet and calm demeanor. They are incredibly patient and despite their large size (they can weigh up to 150 pounds!), they are tolerant, calm, and sweet with children. These peaceful creatures rarely bark, although they are naturally protective. 

2. Bernese Mountain Dog

Like the St. Bernard, the Bernese mountain dog also hails from the Swiss Alps and thrives in cold weather. Big, beautiful, and bred to work, Bernese mountain dogs have large and powerful bodies. However, they are supremely gentle giants with sweet and tender souls. They are also loyal and develop strong bonds with their humans. Bernese mountain dogs are exceptional family pets known for their kind and gentle nature towards children. 

3. Golden Retriever

Golden retrievers are extremely affectionate and loving and are good with young children and even other dogs. They consistently rank among the most popular dog breeds in the world due to their intelligence, calm demeanor, and friendly attitudes. Golden retrievers seem to love everyone they meet and make friends easily. Unlike St. Bernards, however, golden retrievers have more playful energy and need a bit more activity to keep them happy and healthy. 

4. Labrador Retriever

Commonly known as “Labs”, Labrador retrievers are immensely popular due to their friendly demeanor, sweet personalities, and ever-present smiles. Much like St. Bernards, Labrador retrievers are fantastic family dogs and get along with both children and other animals. However, Labs have a lot more energy than St. Bernards and need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. 

5. Leonberger

Originating from Germany, the Leonberger is an aristocratic dog, resulting from a cross of the Great Pyrenees, the Newfoundland, and the Saint Bernard. These majestic dogs may appear intimidating with their giant bodies and lion-like manes, but they are nothing short of gentle giants. Leonbergers are fiercely loyal and devoted companions, making them excellent additions to any family. With their affectionate and patient nature, Leonbergers effortlessly bond with children.

6. Great Pyrenees

Hailing from the majestic Pyrenees Mountains in France, the Great Pyrenees or Pyrenean Mountain dog shares many traits with the beloved Saint Bernard. These large but gentle giants were originally bred as livestock guardians and have evolved into devoted protectors and cherished companions. Great Pyrenees dogs are independent, calm, and don’t require constant attention, although they do enjoy going for walks and playing with their humans. 

7. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Another gentle giant, the greater Swiss mountain dog stands tall with a heart of gold. These large dogs are calm and patient, making them excellent family dogs. They love children and are very affectionate, forming strong bonds with their families. Greater Swiss mountain dogs are also loyal and often get along with other dogs and even cats.

8. Irish Wolfhound

Gentle, patient, and thoughtful, the Irish wolfhound shares many characteristics with the St. Bernard. One of the tallest dog breeds out there, Irish wolfhounds have lean bodies and a regal presence. They are intelligent and can be independent, so they need experienced owners to guide them. However, Irish wolfhounds are gentle, tender souls with a calm and patient nature. They thrive on human companionship and love spending time with their families.

9. Estrela Mountain Dog

Also known as the Cão da Serra da Estrela, the Estrela mountain dog originated from the Serra da Estrela Mountains in Portugal. For centuries these majestic canines have served as fierce protectors and loyal companions, with tall and athletic bodies. However, the Estrela mountain dog is another gentle giant in the dog world, known for being exceptionally calm and patient. They make wonderful family companions and are gentle with children. 

10. Entlebucher Mountain Dog

A medium-sized dog, the Entlebucher mountain dog is a little charmer with a friendly face. These dogs are loyal and devoted companions but can be cautious around strangers. Although these dogs are a lot like St. Bernards, they are also much more energetic and tend to be rather vocal. 

11. Tornjak

Strong, courageous, and fiercely protective, the Tornijak is a tough dog with a gentle heart. These large mountain dogs are well-known for their work ethic as well as their friendly nature. Tornjaks are affectionate and loyal dogs who form strong bonds with their human families. However, they are independent watchdogs and are often wary of strangers.

12. Old English Sheepdog

Bred to herd sheep in the English countryside, Old English sheepdogs look like giant, shaggy teddy bears. They are well-known for their incredibly gentle nature and infinite affection, adoring their human families and sharing their charming personalities with their families. They are playful, cuddly, and patient, and make great playmates for children as well as other pets.

13. English Mastiff

The ancestors of the English mastiff go back to ancient civilizations and have led to the massive and dignified dog that we see today. One of the largest and heaviest dogs out there, the mastiff has an imposing appearance, but beneath its muscled and wrinkly exterior lies a pure heart of gold. Gentle and loving, mastiffs adore their families and are astoundingly patient with children and even other pets.

14. Pyrenean Mastiff

One of the rarer dog breeds, the Pyrenean mastiff (or Mastín del Pirineo) is calm, gentle, and incredibly loyal. These large dogs are patient, gentle, and protective of all creatures, including children and other animals. They are extremely devoted to their families and can make wonderful family dogs. Pyrenean mastiffs are also fiercely protective (although not aggressive) and make excellent watchdogs.

15. English Springer Spaniel

A medium-sized dog with a soft, feathery coat, the English springer spaniel is a playful and energetic pup who is always up for an adventure. These dogs are much more energetic and enthusiastic than St. Bernards but are also very patient with children. Many English spring spaniels serve as devoted playmates for small children. They make excellent family dogs, but their strong prey drive can be a challenge at times.

Summary of the 15 Dog Breeds Most Similar to St. Bernards

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