You probably have seen pictures of cute, fluffy dogs with a barrel around their neck, stationed in snowy mountains. If you’re guessing, yes, they’re the St. Bernards- an infamous breed known for their rescue work in the Swiss Alps.
You might be wondering if these gentle giants would make a fantastic addition to your home. Good news- They can be the perfect family dog given their good-natured temperament. Less good news- Owning one might become a mammoth task if you’re not prepared! Like any big breeds, they come with their own set of challenges. Does this make the St. Bernard a difficult dog to own? Let’s find out.
St. Bernards are named after St Bernard de Menthon and the Great St Bernard Hospice, a traveler’s inn, where the breed was used for rescue missions. They weigh up to 180 pounds and are a bundle of strength, gentleness and affection, mixed with drool- lots and lots of drool! But what actually makes St. Bernard a ‘difficult’ dog?
The answer, like many things in life, depends on your perspective and how much effort you’re willing to put in. For instance, consider size. The average St. Bernard puppy grows into a big, heavy adult, that requires a larger living space and bigger food servings.
Did you also know they shed? A St. Bernard goes through two ‘blow outs’ each year where they shed their undercoat completely. The rest of the time they just…well, shed. Expect dog hair everywhere.
Additionally, because of their size, they are prone to health problems such as hip dysplasia and heart conditions. Regular vet visits are essential, and as with any dog, you need to be ready for the potential cost of treatment.
Brace yourselves now for an even bigger blow – the lifespan of a St. Bernard is relatively short compared to other breeds. It averages between 7-10 years. Now, having a pet is like having a family member. So, managing the mortality can be a sad and ‘difficult’ reality to deal with.
So, it seems like this breed might be a bit difficult to handle, right?
On the contrary, every coin has two sides. St. Bernards, with their friendly and affectionate nature, can prove to be fabulous pets. And ensuring their well-being isn’t any more difficult than with other breeds if you invest your time wisely.
Firstly, these dogs are famous for their loyalty towards their owners. Your St. Bernard will always look out for you, ensuring a protective atmosphere.
Secondly, despite their giant size, these dogs are incredibly patient and gentle, making them perfect for families. Their friendly attitude towards children is adored worldwide, making them fantastic playmates for your tykes.
Thirdly, although St. Bernard puppies are energetic and love to play, as they grow, they become calm and more sedate. Regular but not strenuous exercise is sufficient for this breed. A couple of short walks and free play in a backyard are perfect. This makes them less demanding in terms of exercise compared to other breeds their size.
Finally, training a St. Bernard isn’t that complicated. Contrary to a popular belief that large size dogs are difficult to train, St. Bernards are rather intelligent and keen to learn. Simple positive reinforcement methods work best with this breed.
Where does all this leave us? Is the St. Bernard a difficult dog? Yes and No.
It’s a ‘yes’ if you aren’t well-prepared for their size, drooling, shedding, and potential health problems. It’s a ‘no’ if you are ready to incorporate their care in your daily routine.
In conclusion, the question isn’t whether the St. Bernard is a ‘difficult’ breed but instead whether the breed is the right fit for you and your lifestyle. If you have the love, patience, and fortitude to handle a large breed dog with some specific needs, a St. Bernard can become your best friend and guardian for life.
Remember, owning any dog, big or small, requires a commitment to their well-being which transcends any difficulties. Research, understand, and then decide if you can provide the loving home a St. Bernard deserves. Trust us, the drool would be worth the dedication and love these gentle giants give you in return!
