How to Keep a Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are very large dogs that are intelligent, friendly and people-oriented. They make excellent family pets because they are loyal and gentle. They are relatively easy to keep, as they are easy to train, do not have special grooming requirements and have few health problems. The biggest challenge to keeping a Saint Bernard is proving space and proper exercise to keep these dogs mentally and physically healthy. Saint Bernards also need lots of attention from their owners; they enjoy being close to family members and are eager to please.
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Things You'll Need
- Enclosed outdoor area
- Quality kibbles or fresh and raw foods
- Water
- Stiff bristle brush
Instructions
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Allow your Saint Bernard to be around and spend time with members of the household. These dogs are very friendly and loving and can become upset or depressed when left alone. Because they are people-oriented, include a Saint Bernard in as many activities as possible. Being with their human companions makes this dog happy and avoids boredom and stress.
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Feed Saint Bernards a high-quality diet that is low in fats and fillers. Premium kibbles, fresh foods and raw-food diets are all acceptable. Feeding a combination of kibbles and fresh or raw foods may be the best option. Your dog's diet should be determined by the individual animal and its health needs, weight and exercise level. Consult with your veterinarian if you need help choosing a specific diet for a Saint Bernard, and always provide clean, fresh water.
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Walk your dog regularly to maintain its fitness. Long, daily walks are good for a Saint Bernard's mental and physical health. Although this is a large breed, Saint Bernards do not need large amounts of outdoor space to fulfill exercise needs. A small- to medium-sized enclosed yard or outdoor area, in addition to daily walks, will be sufficient.
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Brush your Saint Bernard once a week with a stiff bristle brush. The eyes can become teary; wipe with a clean, soft cloth as necessary to remove tears and dirt. Give your Saint Bernard a bath only when absolutely necessary. Shampooing these dogs removes natural oils that keep the coat healthy and so should be kept to a minimum.
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Visit the veterinarian at least once a year for a routine checkup. The vet will be able to help determine the dog's most current dietary and exercise needs and can advise you on what to feed it and tell you about any preemptive measures you can take to avoid future health problems.
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Tips & Warnings
Saint Bernards often drool, especially before or after eating and when they are excited. Serve food in an area that can be easily cleaned.
Saint Bernard puppies and dogs up to the age of two should be onlyl lightly exercised. Too much exercise will overstress developing bones and could cause health problems in adult dogs.
While Saint Bernards can handle hot weather, a cool or shady place to escape direct heat and sunlight and fresh water should be available to the dogs. Abrupt changes in temperature (such as going directly from an air-conditioned room into the midday summer heat) are extremely hard on this breed; avoid such changes when possible.
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