Swiss monks in the icy alps centuries ago probably never expected that their humble helper dogs, the Saint Bernards, would become the global icons they are today. These giant diligent dogs were initially bred at the hospice of the Great Saint Bernard Pass to help the monks rescue lost travelers stuck in snowstorms. Over time, this majestic breed has grown in popularity and has charmed its way into homes around the world. Given their strong and imposing build, you might wonder if St. Bernard’s can double up as guard dogs.
Before we dive deeper, let’s discuss a trivia that might intrigue you. You might think that every St. Bernard comes equipped with a little barrel of brandy around its neck to warm up wayfarers as depicted in popular culture. However, you’d be surprised to know that not once in recorded history has a St. Bernard been dispatched with a barrel of warming brandy to aid travelers in danger. This charming image was purely a figment of imagination by an English artist, Edwin Landseer, in his painting “Alpine Mastiffs Reanimating a Distressed Traveler.” Interesting, isn’t it?
Let’s get back to our core question – is St. Bernard a guard dog? The answer can both be a yes and a no. It primarily depends on how you define a “guard dog”. If you mean a dog that patrols your property line and barks aggressively at any potential intruders, then no, St. Bernard might not live up to this standard. However, if you define a guard dog as an insightful, protective, and intuitive creature that values your safety above all else, then yes, St. Bernard fits the bill.
St. Bernard is a calm and gentle giant that forms a tight bond with its family. They are very protective of their family and will do their utmost to keep them safe. They get along with children and other pets amazingly well and can sense the emotional environment, adjusting their behaviors accordingly. They have a keen sense of discernment and can sense a threat even before you might have noticed it.
Now, some advice if you are considering a St. Bernard as your family guard dog. Firstly, just because these dogs were bred for heroic rescues doesn’t mean they are born ready for the job. Like any other dog breed, St. Bernards require socialization to grow into well-rounded adults. It’s essential to responsibly introduce your St. Bernard pup to a variety of people, places, and situations for them to be able to distinguish between normal and abnormal scenarios.
Secondly, care must be taken to avoid turning your St. Bernard into an overly cautious or territorial dog. They are very cognizant animals that are capable of sensing your emotions. If you’re jittery, your dog will sense it and react accordingly. So, try not to encourage your St. Bernard to be overly wary of strangers or new situations. Instead, show them the expected calm and confident way of reacting.
Furthermore, St. Bernards are heavy droolers and shedders. This is something you’ll have to be okay with if you wish to have a St. Bernard in your home. Also, due to their large size, they require ample space and lots of food. Regular exercise is key to keep them healthy and active, although they are not as energetic as some smaller breeds.
In conclusion, St. Bernards can be excellent guard dogs if that means being a lovable and dedicated protector for your family. With their calm demeanor, intuitive nature, and deep love for their families, they are likely to do an exceptional job. However, these dogs are not meant to be aggressive patrol dogs that scare away anyone who approaches your property. They are best suited to families who need a dog with a gentle, yet vigilant nature. With the right training, socialization, and love, your St. Bernard will become a valued member of your family, offering unwavering loyalty and protection.
