Is the Saint Bernard Right for You?

The Saint Bernard is well known for its incredible abilities as a snow rescue dog, used by the Swiss Alp monks in the 1700's. They can catch a scent through many feet of snow.They still compete in rescue today but have been mostly replaced by modern technology for actual avalance emergencies. They still make wonderful pets for the right person or families.

These are huge dogs are brave, very gentle and good with children. They may weigh between 100 - 200 pounds, height is around 24-28 inches. Saint Bernards have loose facial skin so be ready with the droll rag! They are desended from the Mastiff family and are world record holders. There are 3 Saint Bernards in the Guiness Book of World Records. This includes the largest litter born, 23 puppies and the largest dog on record at 305 ponds!

The Saint Bernard is a gentle giant who is persistantly cheerful. These beautiful dogs grow quikly and will sometimes have painful growth spurts and joint pain. They will be expensive to feed, eating 6-12 cups of food per day. They will do best on special diets of meat and fiber as opposed to dog food. Your vet bill may be large with this dog too! They are prone to spinal disorders, heart and skin problems and most common, hip dysplasia. They shed heavily twice a year,require regular brushing and minimum bathing. Don't over bathe. They have natural oils in their skin that is important to their health. Walking is important to these big fellas also but, don't over do it. Always keep the Saint Bernard on a leash during walks. They are quite sensitive to human fear and may react to it.

Akc places this dog in the working group. Colors acceptable are orange, mahogany-brindle, red-brindle, or white with patches in any of these colors. When choosing a puppy of this breed make sure the parents are of a good disposition and social.They may be rambuncious as puppies but will learn to be more graceful and careful, especially around children. Keep the young Saint Bernard occupied and under supervision. A bored puppy can cause a lot of damage! Saint Bernards do not care to be alone and they will rarely bark without good reason. They prefer and do better in colder weather. They need a fenced in yard with ample space. They show little interest in mating so may not be a breed you want for that purpose. If you can accomidate and afford this pet it can be a valuable family member. For more information on the Saint Bernard breed as a whole and as a household pet, see the following sites www.thebreedsofdogs.com/SAINT_BERNARD.htm and reviews.ebay.com/How-To-Care-For-a-Saint-Bernard-Pet-Lovers-Guide_W0QQugidZ10000000000797990.