I have owned Saint Bernards for 14 years, and although I am a huge fan of the breed, they are not for everyone. Originating from Roman Molesser dogs, developed as working/rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps by monks at a monastery that still exists, the breed is very noble, and for the most part very intelligent (think of the size of the brain in that huge head). Loyal and gentle, the dog needs to be an intrical part of the family. I live in an extremely rural part of Michigan and I see a lot of Saints used as farm dogs, and doing a very good job of it. Truly that old saying “the happiest dog is a dog with a job”, guarding home and family (especially children) the Saint is a natural for a working farm dog or cherished family pet. However, as noted above they are not for everyone.
Some things to consider:
1. They are big!! The male I presently own (Samson) weighs in at 200 pounds, the female pup (Sierra) is 120 pounds and I expect her to get to about 160 pounds.
2. Consider a rescue league dog; many of these animals are given up because of reasons beyond their control. The placement agencies are honest about behavioral issues. Google Saint Bernard rescue for more information.
3. If you must have a purchased puppy of course deal with a reputable breeder. Avoid so called “backyard breeders” and “puppy mills”. Both parents should be on site and puppy shots and vet checks documented. Ask for references from previous puppy buyers.
4. Research the breed, and decide if this is the right kind of dog for you and/or your family.
5. In doing the research, check out the possible health issues somewhat common for this breed of dog. In the 1950’s saw a surge in popularity of Saint Bernards, resulting in some common health considerations. Cardiac issues and hip dysplasia are a result of “the bigger, the better” mentality, also look closely at the eyes, the famous soulful, brown sagging eyes are susceptible to entopic conditions where the eyelashes are turned inwards.
6. Always place food and water on an elevated platform to prevent abdominal torsion common in large breed dogs. My dogs eat and drink from bowls placed on the back porch, while they remain on the ground.
7. Towels are our friends; keep a bath towel near the door they use to go in and out to wipe mouth and neck free from drool.
8. Speaking of drool, I have read that there is no such thing as “dry mouth” and “wet mouth” Saint Bernards, but I can tell you that I have owned some real droolers, and some that are no wetter than any large dog. The key here is to check out the lips!! For a pup, look at the parents and the pup. The larger and droopier the lips, the more drool will result.
9. Consider the cost, although the food bill may not be as high as expected, medication for that large body can be costly. Establish a good relationship with a good vet.
10. Do not overfeed. As mentioned above the food expenses may be less then expected because the dogs are not known for activeness. Excess weight causes health problems. Check with your vet for proper portion sizes and dog’s weight.
11. Exercise is a must, walks for a nonworking dog avoids destructive behavior at home.
12. The breed can be stubborn, but respond well to praise and snacks. Consider obedience training classes.
13. Enjoy one of the best dogs you will ever own, doesn’t everyone have a Saint Bernard story from their childhood?
Fun facts about St. Bernards:
As rescue dogs, they can smell a body under up to 20 feet of snow.
The dew claws are left intact in this breed, the longer the claw, the more pure the bloodline.
A crossing of the Swiss dogs with Canadian Newfoundland dogs by the monks gave them webbed feet, great for digging up lost souls in the snow.
They patrolled in pairs, when a body was found; one dog was trained to lay by the body to provide warmth, and to lick the face of the victom to promote conciseness, the other dog would return to the monastery, barking until the monks came out to assist in the rescue.
The most famous rescue dog was Barry, credited with saving at least 40 people, including children. Legends abound about this hero. Google Barry the rescue dog for more information.
They once assisted Napoleon across the famous mountain pass to invade Russia. He endowed the monastery with funds for the dog’s upkeep from then on.
