Saint Bernard Dog Breed Information

Dog enthusiasts have fallen in love with the Saint Bernard breed due to its majestic appearance and disposition. Beyond their function as companions, these large dog breeds have a rich history and are renowned for their devotion, intellect, and extraordinary power.

Saint Bernard’s average weight and height are 54–82 kg and 65–90 cm, respectively, and their life expectancy is 8–10 years. This article delves into the intriguing world of Saint Bernards, examining their history, traits, and unique relationships with people.

Origin

The Saint Bernard was first developed by monks at the Saint Bernard Hospice in the Western Alps of Switzerland and Italy. Founded in the eleventh century, this hospice provided safety and shelter for visitors crossing the Great St. Bernard Pass.

These canines’ strong sense of smell and ability to locate and aid trapped travelers made them helpful to the monks during rescue efforts in the cold mountain passes.

Physical Appearance

Saint Bernards typically weigh between 140 and 180 pounds. Their height varies from 25 to 30 inches at the shoulder. This substantial size contributes to their reputation as gentle giants.

Saint Bernards have a thick double coat that provides insulation against cold temperatures. They come in two coat types: short-haired and long-haired. The short-haired variety has a dense, smooth coat, while the long-haired version features a longer, more flowing fur. Coat colors include white with red, brindle, or brown markings.

The breed’s face is expressive, characterized by a broad, square muzzle and dark, soulful eyes. They have distinctive markings, often with a white blaze on their forehead and a white collar around their neck. Their large, floppy ears and bushy tail further add to their unique appearance.

Saint Bernards are muscular and well-proportioned. Their build is sturdy, allowing them to perform physically demanding tasks.

Personality

Saint Bernards are known for their kind and friendly personalities, which earned them the moniker “gentle giants.” Even with their massive stature, they have a serene, well-mannered personality that makes them great family friends.

They have a special affection for youngsters and frequently show signs of protectiveness towards the people they love. Their striking look, which emanates friendliness and power, results from their muscular physique, expressive black eyes, and large heads.

How to Take Care of Your Saint Bernard

Grooming

Saint Bernards’ thick double coat, whether short-haired or long-haired, needs attention to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Brushing them at least three times a week is recommended, using a slicker brush or a grooming rake to remove loose fur and keep their coat looking clean.

Bathing is essential but should be done as needed. Over-bathing can strip the natural oils from their coat, leading to dryness. You can use a gentle dog shampoo and ensure thorough rinsing to avoid skin irritation.

Regular ear cleaning is important, especially with their large, floppy ears, which can trap moisture and lead to infections. You have to wipe their ears with a damp cloth or use a vet-approved ear cleaner. Paying attention to their teeth is also crucial. Regular brushing with dog-specific toothpaste helps prevent dental issues.

Health

Saint Bernards are susceptible to heart conditions such as dilated cardiomyopathy, where the heart becomes enlarged and weakened. Regular vet check-ups can help detect this condition early.

Their large size puts them at risk for joint problems like arthritis, especially as they age. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise to prevent excessive strain on their joints.

Eye conditions, including entropion (inward rolling of the eyelids) and ectropion (outward rolling of the eyelids), are also common in them. These issues can cause irritation and may require surgical correction.

Lifespan for a Saint Bernard typically ranges from 8 to 10 years, though some may live longer with proper care. Regular veterinary visits, a balanced diet, and a healthy lifestyle can help manage these health concerns and contribute to a longer, healthier life.

Exercise

Regular physical activity is important to keep Saint Bernards healthy and prevent obesity, but they don’t require intense exercise. A couple of daily walks, combined with some playtime is enough.

It’s essential to remember that Saint Bernards are prone to overheating due to their thick coats. Exercise during cooler parts of the day, like early mornings or late evenings, is best. You need to avoid strenuous activities in hot weather to prevent heat exhaustion.

They enjoy outdoor activities but aren’t overly energetic. A brisk walk or a short hike can be enough to keep them fit. If you have a yard, letting them roam and play can provide additional exercise, but always supervise them to prevent overexertion. However, you should avoid high-impact exercises, especially for puppies, as it can stress their developing joints.

What to or What Not to Feed Them

A diet rich in high-quality protein is essential for maintaining their muscle mass. You have to look for dog foods that list meat as the first ingredient. Avoid foods with excessive fillers like corn or soy, which provide little nutritional value. Whole grains like brown rice or oats can be good sources of energy.

Saint Bernards are prone to obesity, so portion control is important. You should follow feeding guidelines based on their age, weight, and activity level. Instead of one large meal, consider feeding them two or three smaller meals throughout the day. This not only helps with digestion but also reduces the risk of bloat, a serious condition in this breed.

You need to avoid feeding them foods high in fat, as this can lead to weight gain and digestive issues. Foods like chocolate, grapes, onions, and garlic are toxic to dogs and should be strictly avoided. Also, be cautious with bones, especially cooked ones, as they can splinter and cause internal injuries.

Incorporating vegetables like carrots, peas, and sweet potatoes can provide additional nutrients and fiber. Supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, can also be beneficial, especially for joint health.

Pros and Cons for Saint Bernard

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What type of temperament do Saint Bernards have?

Saint Bernards are known for their gentle, calm, and friendly nature. They are excellent with families and show great patience and affection toward children.

2. How often should Saint Bernards be groomed?

Saint Bernards require regular grooming due to their dense and heavy coat. Brushing 2-3 times a week is recommended to manage shedding and prevent matting, especially during shedding seasons.

3. Are Saint Bernards good in cold weather?

Yes, Saint Bernards are well-suited to cold weather due to their thick coat. They were originally bred for mountain rescue in the Swiss Alps and are comfortable in colder climates.

4. What are common health issues in Saint Bernards?

Common health issues in Saint Bernards include hip and elbow dysplasia, heart conditions, and bloat. Their large size also makes them prone to joint problems and they may have a shorter lifespan than smaller breeds.

5. How much exercise do Saint Bernards need?

Saint Bernards need moderate exercise to maintain their health and prevent obesity. Daily walks and play sessions in a secure area are typically sufficient to meet their exercise needs.

Wrapping Up

There is much more to Saint Bernard than merely a big, powerful canine breed. Their kind disposition, devoted character, and extensive history as rescue dogs have won the hearts of many people worldwide.

Dog lovers everywhere will always have a special place in their hearts for Saint Bernards, whether they are used for search and rescue operations or as devoted family pets.