Saint Bernard Breed

Saint Bernard Breed

Saint Bernard Breed Description

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Life Expectancy

8-10 years

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Learning Rate

High

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Litter Size

3 to 8

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Size

Giant

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Weight

Dogs: 110-200 pounds
Bitches: 100-160 pounds

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Height

Dogs: 25-27 inches
Bitches: 23-25 inches

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Country of Origin

Alpine, Switzerland – Italy, 1000

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Groups

AKC Working Dogs, FCI Group II.: Pinscher and Schnauzer- Molossoid Breeds – Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs, TKC Working

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Other Names

Alpine Mastiff, St. Bernhardshund, Bernhardiner

Saint Bernard dog

The Saint Bernard is a very large, strong, muscular, powerful dog. As long as the weight stays in proportion with the height, the taller the dog the more prized. This breed has been used as an avalanche and rescue dog in the snowy passes near the Hospice. This amazing servant of mankind has saved more than 2,000 people.

St. Bernard has a highly developed sense of smell and also seems to have a sixth sense about impending danger from storms and avalanches (perhaps it may hear very low frequency sounds that are beyond our ability to hear). There are two varieties: short-haired and long-haired; the short-haired variety is more often used for mountain work because it can tolerate cold temperatures while the long-haired variety’s coat tends to collect icicles.

This dog can find a person even under many feet of snow. Some of this breed’s talents are: search & rescue, watchdogging and carting.

Saint Bernard dog

Temperament

Saint Bernard dog

This breed is extremely gentle and friendly. It is very tolerant of children. It is slow moving, obedient, and patient. It is eager to please and extremely loyal to its family. Since this dog is so large, be sure to socialize it very well at a young age with people and other dogs. Training should be gentle and start at an early age while the dog is still a manageable size.

Keep 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 makes a good watchdog; even its size is a good deterrent. This breed tends to drool after drinking or eating. It has an excellent sense of smell.

Saint Bernard dog

Colors

Saint Bernard colors

White with red or red with white, the red in its various shades; brindle patches with white markings, mahogany, black – in various combinations.

Coat

Saint Bernard coat

Very dense, water-resistant, tough, without feeling rough to the touch. There are two types of coat: rough, and smooth. Both types of coats are easy to groom. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, and bathe only when necessary. This breed sheds twice a year.

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Health Issues

Some are prone to “wobbler” syndrome, heart problems, skin problems, hip dysplasia, and extropion (a folding outward of the eyelid rim, usually on the lower lid). To help prevent the chance of hip or elbow dysplasia developing make sure your dog is on a healthy, well proportioned diet, and avoid excessive running and jumping while still a puppy as this can be hard on the developing joints. Twisted stomachs should be watched for. This breed is prone to bloat; it is best to feed it two or three small meals a day instead of one large meal. To minimize the risk of your dog developing any hereditary health issues, you should buy a St. Bernard dog from a reputable breeder.

Living Environment

Living Environment

This breed will do fine in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is relatively inactive indoors and a small yard is sufficient. It can live outdoors, but would much rather be with its family. This breed has a low tolerance for hot weather, warm rooms, and cars, so keep in shade and provide plenty of water in hot conditions.

If you are looking for Saint Bernard for sale, you’ve come to the perfect place! Our team of experts is here to help you choose a puppy that suits your lifestyle and meets your expectations. Our Saint Bernard puppies are carefully selected and are bred by reputable breeders, who live up to our high standards.

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