Saint Bernard’s are the gentle giants of huge size. These dogs have been the best family pets for many centuries. But before you decide to bring one into your home, it’s important to understand whether this gentle giant fits into your lifestyle. In this blog, read along to get all the information you need about Saint Bernard’s, and hence decide whether you feel it will be good for you.
Table of Contents
Key Historical Developments
The Saint Bernard is an ancient breed, originating in the Swiss Alps in the 11th century. Monks from the Saint Bernard Hospice originally bred them for rescue work missions to help people who were lost among the snow-covered mountains. Their keen sense of path and powerful build adapted them perfectly for this duty. Over the years, they have gained fame not only for their heroism but also because of their soft nature.
Make it Human
Saint Bernard’s are the heaviest of dogs, with males generally weighing from 140 to 180 pounds and females coming anywhere between 120 and 140 pounds. They stand about 25 to 30 inches high at the shoulder. Their thick coats come in various shades, which include red, brown, and brindle, often with white markings. They have an approximate 8 to 10 year lifespan.
An emotional human-like profile
Despite their massive size, Saint Bernard’s are gentle and friendly. They are usually good with families and children and hence make very good pets. They are also good with other pets. Saint Bernards are loyal dogs with protective instincts that are great when they act as a watchdog without being aggressive.
Make Human
But despite its thick coat, we can deduce the fact that a Saint Bernard’s grooming effort is moderate, which means that the coat requires some care to stay clean and free of mats. Brushing several times a week will significantly cut down on the amount this gentle giant sheds. Their exercise needs are moderate as well. Daily walks and some playing in the yard will often suffice. Take care not to go overboard, particularly during the summer. This breed is prone to heat exhaustion. Just as in all large breeds, they can naturally be prone to some specific health issues, like hip dysplasia and heart problems, so regular vet check-ups are crucial.
Human Needs
They are best suited for homes that have plenty of space merely because of their size. A house that has a bigger yard, ideally, helps them to move comfortably. They can adapt to apartment living if they get enough exercise, but it’s not ideal. The Saint Bernard does fairly well in cold climates but can struggle somewhat in really hot, humid weather. Make sure they have a cool place in which to rest during the warmer months.
Socializing the workforce is the Saint Bernard
Since they are truly large animals, Saint Bernard’s need training. One can be fairly certain of having a well-behaved adult Saint Bernard given early training. They are intelligent and ready to please, which makes training rather easy. Lots of positive reinforcement in the form of praise or treats for eliciting the desired behavior is very beneficial. Socialization can also never be overemphasized. Get your Saint Bernard to meet different kinds of people, other animals, and into different environments to help it become rounded and confident.
Would you like to meet some advantages and disadvantages of owning a Saint
Bernard?
Benefits
- Shows commitment and respect
- Gentle and kind to children
- Very watchful dogs without aggression
Cons:
- It is big-sized and occupies a lot of space
- The body must be groomed and exercised occasionally.
- Drools excessively and sheds
- Common health issues in big breeds
Is the Saint Bernard a good fit for you? Before contemplating bringing a Saint Bernard into your life, look first at your living conditions, lifestyle, and your capacity to take care of a big dog. Such dogs require space. They need regular grooming and training. With a big heart and enough space, one of these gentle giants can easily become a loving and loyal member of your family. They are indeed wonderful companions: able to bring joy and protection into your home.
Conclusion
Saint Bernard’s are such an amazing breed of dog with an epic history. Such dogs are very gentle but remain loyal. They’ll make good family pets if you give them ample space and are ready to be committed to providing care for them. Make an extra honest evaluation of your lifestyle and how it affects the care of a Saint Bernard before you decide. If you do, you’ll have a loving, devoted companion.
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Do you own a Saint Bernard or are thinking of owning one?
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