St Bernard Traits

The origin of the Saint Bernard Dog is tied to the mountain pass and the monastery of the same name. Dogs then were relatively smaller than they are today, so the Saint Bernards of the past were probably much smaller. The direct ancestors of the St Bernard were the large farm dogs common in that region. By 1900, the Saint Bernard had gained popularity and is still one of the most popular of the giant breeds.

The first mention of the Saint Bernards being used rescuing is not mentioned in writing until 1750, although it likely began before then. Since then, the Saint Bernard has become synonymous with lifesaving, and is frequently used as an assist dog in snowy colder climates.

The Saint Bernards also have a keen instinct for predicting bad weather, like snowstorms and avalanches, which was very useful to the monks. The Saint Bernard is known to have a strong sense of smell and an intuitive sense with respect to potential avalanches. The Saint Bernard's sense of smell is so excellent that he can find a person even under many feet of snow. In the three centuries of records available at the hospice, the Saint Bernards have been responsible for saving well over 2,000 human lives.

Saint Bernards are large, powerful, deep chested dogs, and can easily be recognized by their size and by their distinctive red and white coats. The feet are large with strong well-arched toes, making the Saint Bernard's sure-footed in the snow and ice. Saint Bernards may have dark masks and the coat of the Saint Bernard is typically white with tan, red, mahogany, black or brindle markings in various combinations. The Saint Bernard can have short, smooth hair that is dense and tough or medium-length hair that is straight to slightly wavy. Both the regular Saint Bernard and the long-coat version require lots of space and lots of exercise. Both divisions of Saint Bernards have thick muscular bodies and are generally sturdy hardy.

The Saint Bernard is prone to such health issues as wobbler syndrome, heart problems, skin disorders, and bloating. The very size of St Bernards make them susceptible to a variety of skeletal and bone-related problems. The Saint Bernard is prone to elbow and hip dysplasia as well as heart problems, skin problems, bloat and eye problems. But the rewards of owning one of these gentle giants more than compensates. Overall, the Saint Bernard should appear large and muscular with a bright and friendly expression.

Saint Bernard puppies are absolutely irresistible, but without discipline they can soon become unruly. Every Saint Bernard that is mentally and physically sound can be taught good manners and simple obedience by any normal individual. Elementary exercises and obedience training of heeling, staying, laying down, and sitting can keep a frisky Saint Bernard out of trouble in most cases. Being of independent spirit the Saint Bernard needs consistent obedience training from an early age. Young Saint Bernards (up to about two years old) romp and jump with great vigor, and things can go flying, including people.

A well-trained Saint Bernard is a mellow, affectionate, lazy dog who will protect your home. The Saint Bernard loves children, but be careful the dogs great size could lead to an unintentional accident when playing. With his steady temperament around people and other animals, the Saint Bernard is an excellent and dependable worker.

Saint Bernards do best in a house with a fenced yard, since they tend to be inactive indoors. If you have the space and have the time to exercise your dog, Saint Bernard's make good house dogs and companions. Adult Saint Bernards need more exercise to keep them in shape, but not in hot or humid weather for fear of overheating. The Saint Bernard requires exercise to remain in shape, however its needs are better met with short walks than a long and vigorous playtime.

Remember that the Saint Bernard is a family dog and does not like to be alone. Because they are slow thinkers, St Bernards require a lot of understanding from their owners during training.

Like all other animals, the Saint Bernards diet should be made up of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, minerals, vitamins, and of course water. Until the bones are fully formed in puppies of Saint Bernards it is best to keep their activity to a minimum. For this reason, a Saint Bernard should not be asked to jump or pull heavy loads before two years of age.

The lifespan of the dog, will depend on its parentage and how well the Saint Bernard is kept.

About the Author
Francesca Black works in marketing for Dog Pound http://www.dog-pound.net and Horse Stall http://www.horse-stall.net leading portals for pet management.

© Copyright 2005-2008

· DR Management · All Rights Reserved