Many people assume that training a large and powerful breed of dog such as a Saint Bernard can be quite challenging. Interestingly, the opposite can be true, provided one uses the right approach.
Saint Bernards are known for their sheer size and strength, but equally well recognized for their gentle temperament. These gentle giants were originally bred to save lives in the perilous, icy mountains of Switzerland. They would find and rescue lost travelers from treacherous avalanches, a true testament to their intelligence and willingness to obey commands. That is why training a Saint Bernard may be less demanding than you may have anticipated.
The intelligence, docility, and eagerness to please make Saint Bernards quite trainable. Although initially developed to handle arduous tasks, modern St. Bernards are mostly kept as family pets. Their inherent characteristics remain, however. They are quick to learn and are eager to please their owners, making them typically easy to train. Keep reading for insights on how to train your Saint Bernard effectively.
Before diving headfirst into the world of dog training, it’s crucial to do some groundwork. The root of successful training lies in a strong bond between a pet and its owner. As a Saint Bernard owner, spend sufficient time bonding with your pet. These dogs are known for their loyalty and love for their family and creating a bond early can make training much more efficient.
Start with basic commands. Because Saint Bernards are more easy-going, they respond well to direct and basic commands. Begin with simple commands like “Sit,” “Stay,” and “Come.” Allow your Saint Bernard to master these before proceeding with more complex instructions. Due to their eager-to-please nature, these dogs take these initial instructions very well.
However, there is a proverbial fly in the ointment. Saint Bernards are large dogs, but they are not aware of their size, especially during their puppyhood. When they grow into their adult size, it could be a real challenge to deal with them if they haven’t been trained well to respect their size. So, as a part of their training, make sure to teach them to respect their strength and size as they grow.
Socializing your Saint Bernard is also a critical part of training. Due to their size, they can unknowingly intimidate smaller animals and even people. Start by introducing them to various environments, people, and other animals while they are still young. This process will help them familiarize themselves with different situations, making them more adaptable and resilient.
Be mindful of positive reinforcement during training. Instead of punishing them for mistakes, reward them for good behaviour. This approach can do wonders as they are incredibly food-driven. Using their favourite treat as a reward, can motivate them to follow commands more willingly.
On the other hand, you must remember that patience is key when it comes to training any dog breed, including a Saint Bernard. Also, it’s crucial to establish yourself as the pack leader early on. St. Bernards may be gentle, but they are still sizable canines and without a well-recognized leader, they can become undisciplined and develop unwanted behaviours.
Commonly, people think that larger dog breeds such as Saint Bernards need extensive training and a lot of space. In reality, adequate mental stimulation does just as much good, if not more, as ever-increasing physical demands. Regular training sessions, interactive toys, engagement in simple cognitive tasks are all part of mental stimulation that has proven more effective in training larger breeds.
Are you wondering how old your Saint Bernard should be before you start training? The good news is, you can begin as soon as your puppy is comfortable in its new home. Starting training early can prevent many problems down the line and create a strong foundation for learning complex tasks later.
Proper training is always a mix of patience, understanding, and dedication. No dog is born understanding what we humans consider manners, and it’s up to us to teach them. Saint Bernards, with their temperament, are a dream to train if the methods applied are positive and consistent.
In conclusion, a Saint Bernard is not as difficult to train as one might initially imagine, given their impressive size and strength. In fact, these gentle giants can be among the most trainable dogs out there with their eagerness to please and learn. If you have a Saint Bernard, or are planning on getting one, embarking on this training journey will not just make your life easier, but also strengthen the bond you share with your furry friend. Happy training!