Imagine this: A massive, adorable dog with deep, soulful eyes, lolling tongue, who’s always ready to share a fluffy hug. If that’s the kind of canine companion you’re envisioning for your family, you might be picturing a Saint Bernard. Famous throughout history as mountain rescuers, these gentle giants also make excellent family pets.
Before we dive into why Saint Bernards make such good family pets, let’s explore their history a bit. These dogs trace their roots to the Swiss Alps where they were originally employed by an ancient Hospice — the Great Saint Bernard Pass — as rescue dogs. They used their superior sense of smell and significant strength to find and save travelers buried under avalanches. They’ve been saving lives for over 300 years; pretty impressive, huh?
Surprising, right? Now, you might be wondering how this historical background makes your Saint Bernard a good family dog. Well, their history of being rescuers has cultivated a natural sense of loyalty, bravery, and patience in them over centuries. These qualities make them not just incredible rescue dogs but also fantastic family dogs.
But how does your potential furry family member behave at home? Well, Saint Bernards are exceptional dogs with a robust personality. Despite their gigantic size, they’re known for being calm, gentle, and patient. They love to be part of all family activities and aren’t the type to initiate trouble.
They offer a great balance between playfulness and tranquility, making them perfect for families with children. Their protective nature comes naturally, but they seldom get aggressive, which is a common worry among parents. It’s their love for kids that has made the delightful Beethoven movies centre around a Saint Bernard to entertain millions globally.
One striking feature of Saint Bernards that sets them apart from many other dog breeds is their intuitive sense of human emotions. They’re sensitive to the feelings of their human friends, making them excellent companions for those down-in-the-dumps moments. One look from those soft, expressive eyes, and your spirits are bound to lift.
Of course, owning any dog—especially a large breed like a Saint Bernard—requires effort and commitment. Let’s talk about some important things to consider if you’re thinking about bringing a Saint Bernard into your family.
Though these dogs are known for their gentleness, their size could become a difficulty if not managed properly, especially in houses with small children and elderly members. A Saint’s wagging tail can easily sweep tabletops clear or knock over a small child. Training and socializing them right from puppyhood is crucial.
Another point is their need for moderate exercise. While not as high-energy as some breeds, Saints enjoy regular walks and playtime to keep healthy. Be warned, they are prone to heat exhaustion, so the hot summer months require extra vigilance.
Now, this may not be pleasant, but we have to discuss is the drool – yes, they drool. But hey, for every bit of dribble they gift you, they give back tenfold in love and loyalty. Plus, keeping a towel handy never hurts.
They also tend to be frequent eaters and might prove costly to maintain. Plus, Saint Bernards are prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia and bloating. Regular check-ups with the vet should keep your Saint in good shape.
To sum up, while owning a Saint Bernard does require effort, the results are hugely rewarding. They’re loyal, friendly, great with children, and do well with other pets. They’re sensitive to human emotions and make very comforting companions.
In essence, a Saint Bernard is more than a pet; they become an irreplaceable part of the family. This gentle giant might need space to roam and a considerable food budget, but the love and warmth they provide are incomparable.
So, if you’re looking for a friendly face to come home to, a print of a huge paw on your heart, and an awesome movie buddy during those cozy family nights, the Saint Bernard checks all the boxes.
Just remember, every dog deserves a committed, loving family. In return, they reward you with unconditional love and a lifetime of cherished memories.
Brush up on your canine knowledge, stock up on food, toys, and drool rags, and prepare to be awe-struck by the Saint Bernard’s incredible capacity for affection. This furry friend might come with a few challenges, but they’re worth every bit of it.
Go ahead, make some room in your heart and home for a Saint Bernard; you won’t regret it! Because at the end of the day, there’s a reason why they say, “The dog is man’s best friend.” And, if it’s a Saint Bernard, he is sure to become not just a best friend, but part of the family.
