There’s a common saying about Saint Bernard dogs, “he’s as stubborn as a Saint Bernard.” Unlike many other dog breeds, Saint Bernards don’t just blindly follow wherever their masters lead. They are fiercely independent creatures with minds of their own. But is the Saint Bernard dog a calm breed of dog? You may be surprised at the answer.
Saint Bernard dogs defy the widespread belief that large dogs are always aggressive and fierce. Interestingly, they prove the opposite to be true. These gentle giants are known for their calm and peaceful demeanor, coupled with their compassionate and welcoming nature. Their calm and gentle disposition make them one of the friendliest dog breeds today.
Legends from the Swiss Alps tell tales of these majestic dogs as they brave treacherous snowstorms to rescue lost travelers. But when they’re not being real-life heroes, these gentle giants are just like any other pet dog that wants nothing more than the love, care, and attention of their humans.
Saint Bernards were initially bred in the Swiss Alps for the single purpose of rescue. Monks at the Saint Bernard Pass, a dangerous, snowy divide between Switzerland and Italy, bred them because of their strength, intelligence, endurance, and ability to navigate through harsh weather. However, what makes these dogs truly exceptional is their calm demeanor, necessary to soothe and comfort distressed victims during rescues.
Rescue work requires a calm and patient attitude because any sign of panic can worsen the victim’s situation. Thankfully, Saint Bernards possess ample amounts of these two qualities. They can stay composed in challenging scenarios, and rather than barking aggressively, Saint Bernards use their quiet strength to get the job done.
But does this calmness carry forward into a home environment?
While these dogs are indeed calm and composed, owning a Saint Bernard is not all about lounging around quietly. They require regular exercise to keep them healthy and satisfied. This is particularly crucial during their first two years, as they can be quite the energetic puppies! Whether it’s a long walk or a lively game of fetch, Saint Bernards enjoy being active, and sharing activities with their human family is just the cherry on top.
Saint Bernards are also great with children and other pets. They are usually gentle with kids, even in play, as though instinctively aware of their own size and strength. The Saint Bernard pups, in particular, are usually quite playful and need to be put under check to avoid any unintentional injuries.
However, it’s essential to remember that every Saint Bernard is an individual. While the breed is known for its calmness and gentleness, the dog’s upbringing, training, and socialization play a significant role in determining its behavior and personality. Socializing your Saint Bernard pup from an early age will help ensure it matures into a well-rounded, gentle adult.
It’s also crucial to establish a clear chain of command with a Saint Bernard. They are an intelligent breed and may try to push boundaries if they sense a lack of leadership. So, while they’re not an overly dominant breed, they do need a firm, consistent hand guiding their behavior.
Now, you must be wondering: “Are they easy to train?” Well, their intelligence makes them quick learners, but their stubborn streak can sometimes pose a challenge. It is best to start training them young and use positive reinforcement methods. Over time, these gentle beasts will prove their worth as loyal and reliable companions.
In conclusion, the Saint Bernard is not just calm, but it is a gentle, loving, and incredibly sociable pet. Their innate calm demeanor, coupled with a fair amount of training, results in an adaptable and even-tempered pet. The Saint Bernard’s calmness is indeed a treasure trove that appeals to both experienced dog owners and first-time pet parents alike. However, ensuring they get regular exercise, discipline, and plenty of love is vital to maintain their characteristic calmness.
So, if what you seek in a dog is calmness, love, loyalty, and a hint of adventure, then the Saint Bernard is the breed for you. But remember, owning a dog, especially this large, gentle breed, is a big responsibility that should not be taken lightly. But ultimately, as any Saint Bernard owner would tell you, it is entirely worth it.
Interesting, isn’t it? Who knew that such a large dog could be so gentle and calm? Now you know, a Saint Bernard is not just calm but often tender enough to let a bird sit on its head! So, if you’re looking to bring a new furry friend into your family, maybe a Saint Bernard is just what you need. But be warned, they might just charm their way into dominating your sofa!
