Imagine a giant furry friend thundering through your home, his tail wagging fervently while his tongue lolls from his mouth, a doggie grin etched across his beautiful face. You thought you had a family dog – not a barrel-toting lifesaver on a Swiss rescue mission! Did I surprise you just now? Well, I was going to talk about the good-natured and iconic St. Bernard, a dog breed beyond compare!
Who hasn’t seen those captivating depictions of the rescuer St. Bernard carrying a barrel of brandy around its neck in the snowy Alps? As impressive as that image is and though it’s been used expansively in popular culture, it’s essential to understand that our dear St. Bernard is much more than a picture-perfect rescue dog. With rich history, infectious jovial nature, incredible patience, and an innate sense of duty, the St. Bernard rightfully deserves his reputation as an exemplary family pet. But will it be the right one for your family?
Let’s travel back to time and visit the quaint Swiss Alps where it all began. It was around the 10th century when these mighty dogs began serving monks in the St. Bernard Pass, a dangerous snow-covered expanse of land that served as a passage. The St. Bernard was bred and trained to rescue lost travelers and much to everyone’s delight, these dogs excelled at their duties. With unbelievable strength, exceptional navigational skills, and astonishing ability to smell danger from afar, they began saving lives by the dozen. By the late 1800’s, the St. Bernard breed was known worldwide for their dedication and bravery.
Fast forward to the 21st century – St. Bernards have traded rescuing duties for belly rubs and cozy family homes, and they are loving every bit of it. Standing comfortably tall at around 27 to 35 inches, weighing a hearty 140 to 265 pounds, this fluffy furball is challenging to miss in a crowd. They are universal favorites that people of all ages tend to adore for their amiable disposition and affable nature. Make no mistake; St. Bernards are gentle giants with soft hearts and an even softer, hearty bark.
St. Bernards are a blessing in homes with children. Their patient and protective nature makes them an ideal companion for your young ones. Inherent instincts to guard their family make them a robust security system; they are alert and attentive, always looking out for potential danger. But remember, their large size may sometimes prove to be a bit too much around toddlers and they need to be supervised during their playtime.
Not only children, but St. Bernards also get along like a house on fire with other pets in the house too. They are inherently social creatures and love company. As long they are socialized correctly from a young age, they get along well with other domestic animals. Be prepared to enjoy sight of your giant St. Bernard playing happily with your tiny rabbit or lying cozily next to your feline friend.
Teaching a St. Bernard could be an experience right out of a comedy script. They’re intelligent but have a stubborn streak, and sometimes may decide to perform tricks on their terms. But the flip side reveals that they are eager to please their owners, making them a delight to train. Just ensure you start their training early and keep the sessions light, full of positive reinforcements and varied to maintain their interest.
Now, let’s talk about their grooming needs. They do come with a considerable amount of fur, so their grooming entails regular brushing, particularly during their shedding season. Routine professional grooming sessions would help to maintain their coat at its fluffiest best. Ensure their ears are kept clean and nails are trimmed.
One significant thing to keep in mind if you’re thinking about opening your door to a St. Bernard is their exercise needs. Though they’re not highly energetic, they require regular moderate exercise to stay fit given their naturally large build. A daily walk and some play time should suffice.
Their colossal size does make them more prone to some health issues, primarily hip dysplasia, heart disease, and eye disorders. Regular checkups and maintaining a close rapport with your vet would help identify any early signs and get them the best care possible.
In a nutshell, if you are seeking a dog with an infectious joy for life, a playful spirit, substantial patience, and a sense of guardianship, look no further! Yes, they are big and may drool a bit, but they more than make up for it with their heart-warming antics, inimitable loyalty, and the whole heap of love they bring into a home. The love and trust of a St. Bernard are gifts your family can enjoy for many years to come. Unlock the door of your home and your heart, and watch this gentle, fun-loving giant fill your life with unending joy, laughter, and love. Remember, a family with a St. Bernard is a family full of delight!
