When you think of a Saint Bernard, you might imagine a massive furball, trotting along snowy mountain slopes with a tiny barrel of brandy around its neck – a reference to the beloved Beethoven movies, or their role as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps. In reality, though, Saint Bernards are so much more than just Hollywood’s favorite oversized pets. They can make an excellent first pet if you know what to expect, and if you’re willing to provide the right environment and proper care.
Now, let’s uncover why Saint Bernards, often lovingly referred to as ‘Saints,’ might be the ideal choice for newbie dog owners. These gentle giants have many qualities that will have you falling in love at first sight.
First off, did you know Saint Bernards are one of the highly intelligent breeds? Despite their laid-back demeanor, they are borderline geniuses when it comes to canine IQ. Their ability to quickly understand and follow commands makes training them relatively easy, a crucial factor for first-time dog owners.
But brains aren’t the only things these furry titans have going for them, they are also blessed with an abundance of heart. Saint Bernards are incredibly affectionate, loving, and loyal, always eager to please their owners. Their docility and friendly nature make them excellent pets, especially in households with small children. You can trust them to be protective yet tender with your little ones.
Another winning attribute of Saint Bernards is their adaptability. They are equally comfortable in both urban apartments (provided they get their daily dose of exercise) and spacious suburban homes. Despite their size and need for moderate exercise, they’re not hyperactive canines that require constant physical stimulation, making them a suitable choice for less active individuals or families.
Now that you’ve got a glimpse of the bright side, let’s address the elephant in the room – or rather, the giant dog. Owning a Saint Bernard does come with a unique set of challenges that any prospective owner must be aware of and prepared to address.
Firstly, these dogs are enormous, frequently reaching over 150 pounds. Their size alone can make them a handful to manage, especially if they’re not trained well. You’ll need ample space for a Saint Bernard to ensure their comfort, and take additional precautions as mundane tasks like a car ride can turn into a logistics nightmare with a Saint Bernard.
Also, with great size comes great amounts of drool. If the thought of random strings of drool hanging from your light fixtures or being sprayed across your clothes as your Saint shakes his head makes you cringe, then this breed might not be the best fit for you. But, if you’re willing to deal with their slobber, you’ll find you’ve got a loving and dedicated companion at your side.
Additionally, a Saint Bernard’s rescue-dog instincts mean that they are protective and vigilant, which could be seen as a positive or negative depending on one’s perspective. Although they are gentle giants, their protective instincts can kick in, and they can become very assertive if they perceive a threat against their loved ones.
Now that you are aware of both the pros and cons, caring tips and advice can’t be overlooked. A critical part of ensuring that your Saint Bernard lives a healthy life is keeping up with their dietary needs. Since they’re a larger breed, filling their bowl isn’t cheap. You need to provide high-quality dog food that’s appropriate for their size, age, and activity level. Also, don’t forget the regular grooming needs of your Saint, their thick double coats need frequent brushing to keep them clean and shiny.
Taking care of a Saint Bernard also means consistent exercise, regular veterinary check-ups, and vaccinations. It may seem overwhelming at first glance, but grooming routines, feeding schedules, and vet visits soon become a normal part of life, just like it is with children.
Owning a dog is a long-term commitment that requires time, energy, and resources. If you’re considering a Saint Bernard as your first dog, you should understand and be prepared for the level of commitment required.
So, is a Saint Bernard a good first dog? If you’ve read this far, you probably know the answer already: it depends. These gentle, loving, intelligent dogs are an exceptional choice if you have the space, time, commitment, and tolerance for drool. But remember, owning a Saint Bernard – or any pet, for that matter – is a serious commitment that should not be taken lightly.
In the end, whether a Saint Bernard is a perfect fit for your household will rely on your lifestyle, living arrangements, and personal preferences. However, one thing is certain: a well-cared-for Saint Bernard shares a level of loyalty and affection unmatched by many other breeds – a testimony to why they make unforgettable, wonderful pets.
Whether you live by the snowy Alps or in a downtown apartment, you might find that a Saint makes a heavenly first pet. Do your research, consider your environment, consider your pet’s needs, and make the best decision you can. After all, being a good pet owner isn’t about whether it’s your first or fifth pet; it’s about the dedication, love, and care you provide to your furry friend.
