General Information About Saint Bernards
Thank you for your strong interest in a Saint Bernard puppy. I hope to provide you with some general information, requirements for caring for the breed.
Saint Bernards originated in Switzerland. Some say at the Hospice of the Great Saint Bernard, others in the mountain valleys surrounding the Hospice. Residing at the Hospice, members of the Order of St. Augustine, still breed, raise and train the dogs as they have for the past 400 years. The stories of their dogs rescues are numerous. The most famous guide/rescue dog was Old Barri. The story goes that Barri found a small boy in the snow and somehow got him to climb on his back and carried the boy to safety. Barri died in 1814 at the age of 12. He was credited with saving over 40 lives. His body, preserved, can still be seen at the Museum of Berne.
Do they shed?
Yes, twice a year, they lose much of their coats to help them adjust to the changing seasons.
Generally the St.Bernard has a loving and faithful disposition. They are remarkably gentle with children and are very loyal to family members.
Feeding?
The cost to feed the Saint is less per pound than many other dogs. Their metabolic rate is low. The Saint puppy converts about six pounds of food into one pound dog. This slows down after their first birthday. Proper feeding is important. Choose a good quality food recommended by the breeder.
Training?
Pretty easy. Once they learn what it is that your trying to teach them, a Saint is very eager to please it's owner. Be gentle, but persistent. Remember your 150 pound Saint is still a puppy at a year old. Start it's training soon after brining the puppy home. They grow extremely fast and will soon be "too big" and "out of control" if not basic trained. Classes are not expensive or ask your breeder for help in training.
Do they drool?
Yes technically there is no such thing as a dry mouthed Saint.
Depending on the weather, the level of excitement, and the shape of their jowls, most Saints will drool on occasion. It is a breed characteristic.
The Saint Bernard is the ultimate dog. Many have been touched by the dignity and beauty of this great breed. Owning a Saint is a great responsibility.
Adult females usually weigh 125-160 pounds, Height 25 1/2 inches minimum. Adult males weigh 160-190 pounds, height 27 1/2 inches minimum. They are either Long or Short Hair.
Exercise?
The first year of your puppy's life should have plenty of supervised play. Remember their bones are still growing and care should given to protect their bones and joints.
Housing?
If kept indoors, just a cool, clean place to lie down, chew toys and a cool bowl of water. Outdoors, proper shelter from the elements, some shade, chew toys, and plenty of cool fresh water. Of course, this is within a secure fenced yard.
Remember to choose a good quality food for your Saint. Just because it costs the most, doesn't necessarily mean it's the best. Listen to your breeder, they have been feeding these gentle giants for years and know what's best for them.
Housebreaking?
Relatively easy and fast. I recommend a crate. But please remember it's a tool to help teach your puppy proper behavior, not their sole living space. Take the puppy outside. When awakens- outside. After eating- outside. After playing- outside. When in doubt- outside. Take them to the same spot where you want them to go in the yard and then clean up afterwards. Less chance of them getting that nasty "eating" habit if it's out of sight. Give tons of praise when they go potty. Pretend your neighbors can't hear you. If an "accident" happens inside, DO NOT rub their nose in it or raise voice unless caught in the act. Doesn't teach them anything except to be afraid. Take the puppy outside and praise when done. Calmness, praise, persistence, praise, love, and attention are all that's needed to get thru housebreaking.
Also remember, Saint Bernards are "people" dogs, meaning they were originally bred for companionship. Leaving them alone all the time outside will break their hearts. Watch how fast, by being around a new family they start to worship and love you.
