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Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard, the Swiss national dog, is a large, gentle breed that utilizes its strong sense of smell in rescues. It is said to have the ability to detect avalanches. They make good watch and family dogs. They are very gentle and accommodating with children.
Origin & History
The Saint Bernard descended from the Molossoid breed. The ancient Romans brought this breed to the Swiss Alps and were used in herding, guarding livestock, hunting, and in search and rescue operations. It is believed that the first Saint Bernards were short-haired and were developed by the monks from the Alps. This variety became more efficient rescue dogs because their fur did not gather icicles. Present day Saint Bernards have been cross-bred with Newfoundlands in the 1850s producing a breed with longer fur.
Saint Bernards are popular rescue dogs, and, as of today, have saved more than 2,000 people in the Swiss Alps.
Details & Specifications
Saint Bernards are huge dogs with massive heads and have all the necessary characteristics for walking through deep snow like strong, big feet. They are powerful and well muscled. They have short and wide muzzles, wide open nostrils on a broad nose, black lips, medium sized eyes, and ears. Their tail is long and powerful. Their coats are short to medium-length and can be orange, mahogany-brindle, red-brindle, or with white patches on the body. They weigh around 140 to 165 pounds, and are 27 to 35 inches tall.
Characteristics
Saint Bernards are extremely gentle and kind by nature. They are tolerant of children, slow moving, and obedient. They are alright as house pets because of their patience, and devotion, but extra measures need to be taken to avoid accidents due to their large size. It is slightly stubborn, and drools, but is very loyal to the family. They are very intelligent and easy to train.
Training
Training should be started at an early age because the dog’s large size as an adult may present difficulties if training is put off. They are sometimes hardheaded, but are pleasers as well.
Caring & Nurturing (Haircut, Fur treatment, washing…)
The Saint Bernard needs to be brushed weekly, and even more often during its bi-annual shedding. When needed, bathe with a mild soap, and mind the eyes. They must be walked at least twice a week, otherwise, they may become destructive.
They can live indoor as long as they are exercised.
Common Diseases
The average life span of a Saint Bernard is 8 years. Some live up to 10, but that hardly happens. Due to their fast growth rate, Saint Bernards are prone to serious bone disorientation. They are also prone to heart and skin problems, hip dysplasia, eye problems, and stomach trouble.
Food, Equipment & Games
Saint Bernards eat a lot. There is no recommended diet for them, though many breeders feed their dogs raw food. It is suggested to feed them frequent small meals like 2 to 3 times a day instead of one big meal because they are prone to bloat.
Comments
(1) this is a very cool dog b. pit