Description

The Saint Bernard is powerful, strong, muscular with a somewhat sad looking expression. Saint Bernard is a faithful, gently, kindly breed who loves children. Saint Bernard requires no training for his work since generations of service seemed to have stamped the rescuing instinct upon his character. Because of its size it does not make a breed for an apartment dweller as he needs plenty of space and large food rations. A well-trained Saint Bernard is a mellow, affectionate, lazy dog who will protect your home. Until the bones are fully formed in puppies it is best to keep their activity to a minimum.

Size of Male: Height: 27.5-30 inches Weight: 140-200 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 25-28 inches Weight: 120-140 pounds

Temperament

Saint Bernard are extremely gentle and friendly and very tolerant of children. The Saint Bernard is slow moving, patient, and obedient. Extremely loyal, Saint Bernard wants to please their owners. Since this dog is so giant, be sure to socialize it very well at a young age with other people. It is highly intelligent and easy to train, however training should begin early, while the dog is still a manageable size. Bear in mind that an unruly dog of this size presents a problem for even a strong adult if it is to be exercised in public areas on a leash, so take control from the onset. The Saint Bernard is a good watchdog. Even its size is a good deterrent. They drool after they drink or eat.

Living Conditions

The Saint Bernard will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. Saint Bernard is relatively inactive indoors and a small yard is sufficient. Saint Bernard can live outdoors, but would much rather be with their family. They have a low tolerance for hot weather, warm rooms, and cars. But ensure early training and socialization along with exercise to keep them healthy both physically and mentally.

Upkeep

The Saint Bernard needs daily exercise in order to stay fit. The requirements of Saint Bernard can be met with moderate walks and a short run, however, Saint Bernard are best raised outdoors, away from slick surfaces. Overweight puppies raised indoors are more prone to hip problems. It enjoys cold weather and does not do well in heat. This breed can live outside in temperate to cold weather, but does best when allowed access to both house and yard. Its coat, whether long or short, needs weekly brushing, more so when shedding. All Saints drool.

Health

Major concerns: hip dysplasia, gastric torsion, entropion, ectropion, distichiasis, elbow dysplasia, osteosarcoma

Minor concerns: osteochondritis dissecans, diabetes, heart conditions, cardiomyopathy, pyotraumatic dermatitis

Life expectancy: 8 – 10 years