13 Things to Know Before Bringing Home a New St. Bernard

3. Grooming Requirements

St. Bernards have a thick, double coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. They shed heavily twice a year, so be prepared for some extra cleaning during these times. You will also need to trim your St. Bernard’s nails and clean their ears regularly.

4. Training Needs

St. Bernards are intelligent dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement training. However, their large size and strength mean that they need consistent and firm training to prevent unwanted behaviors, such as jumping up or pulling on the leash. It’s a good idea to enroll your St. Bernard in obedience training classes to establish good habits and strengthen your bond with your dog.

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5. Socialization

Socialization is important for all dogs, but it’s especially crucial for large breeds like St. Bernards. Early and consistent socialization can help prevent fearfulness and aggression toward strangers, other dogs, and new environments.

6. Health Concerns

St. Bernards are prone to certain health issues, including hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and heart problems. Regular veterinary care, proper nutrition, and exercise can help prevent or manage these health concerns. Consider looking into pet insurance to prepare for unexpected veterinary expenses.

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7. Diet and Nutrition

St. Bernards require a balanced diet to support their growth and maintain their health. As with all dogs, it’s important to choose a high-quality dog food that meets your St. Bernard’s nutritional needs. Overfeeding your St. Bernard can lead to obesity and other health concerns, so be mindful of their portion sizes and calorie intake.

8. Temperament

St. Bernards are known for their gentle and friendly temperament, which makes them great family pets. They are loyal and protective of their owners, but they can be shy or wary around strangers. Early socialization and positive reinforcement training can help your St. Bernard develop a well-rounded and confident personality.

9. Living with Children and Other Pets

St. Bernards are generally good with children and can make great playmates for kids. However, their large size means that they can accidentally knock over small children, so supervision is important. St. Bernards can also get along well with other pets if they are socialized early and introduced slowly.

10. Time Commitment

St. Bernards require a significant time commitment in terms of exercise, grooming, and training. They thrive on human interaction and do not do well if left alone for long periods of time. Before bringing home a St. Bernard, make sure you have the time and energy to dedicate to their needs.

11. Finding a Reputable Breeder or Rescue

When looking for a St. Bernard, it’s important to find a reputable breeder or rescue organization. A good breeder will provide you with health and temperament information about the parents of your puppy and should be willing to answer any questions you may have. Rescue organizations can provide you with information about the dog’s history and behavior, as well as any medical concerns.

12. Patience and Love

Finally, bringing home a new St. Bernard requires patience and love. It may take some time for your new dog to adjust to their new environment, and training and socialization take time and effort. However, the love and companionship you will receive from your St. Bernard will be well worth the effort.

13. Make Sure These Products Are On Your Shopping List!

Bringing home a new St. Bernard can be overwhelming, so we compiled a comprehensive list of every product you’ll need for your new St. Bernard here.

FAQs for First-Time St. Bernard Owners

What is the lifespan of a St. Bernard?

The average lifespan of a St. Bernard is between 8 and 10 years, although some may live longer with proper care.

Do St. Bernards shed a lot?

Yes, St. Bernards shed heavily twice a year and require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

Are St. Bernards good with children?

Yes, St. Bernards are generally good with children and can make great playmates for kids. However, their large size means that they can accidentally knock over small children, so supervision is important.

Do St. Bernards need a lot of exercises?

While St. Bernards are a large breed, they are relatively low-energy dogs and do not require as much exercise as some other breeds. However, they still need daily walks and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy.

What health issues are St. Bernards prone to?

St. Bernards are prone to certain health issues, including hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and heart problems. Regular veterinary care, proper nutrition, and exercise can help prevent or manage these health concerns.

Should I get pet insurance for my St. Bernard?

Yes, it’s a good idea to look into pet insurance to prepare for unexpected veterinary expenses. St. Bernards are prone to certain health issues that can be expensive to treat, so having insurance can provide peace of mind.

Do St. Bernards make good apartment pets?

No, St. Bernards are not well-suited for apartment living due to their large size and exercise needs. They do best in homes with a large yard or access to outdoor space where they can run and play.

Are St. Bernards easy to train?

St. Bernards can be stubborn and may require patience and consistent training to learn obedience and good behavior. However, with positive reinforcement and patience, they can become well-trained and well-behaved pets.

Do St. Bernards get along with other dogs?

St. Bernards can get along with other dogs if they are socialized from a young age. However, due to their large size, they may inadvertently injure smaller dogs during play, so supervision is important.

How often should I groom my St. Bernard?

St. Bernards should be groomed at least once a week to prevent matting and tangling of their long hair. During shedding season, more frequent brushing may be necessary to keep up with their heavy shedding.

Can St. Bernards be left alone for long periods of time?

No, St. Bernards do not do well if left alone for long periods of time. They thrive on human interaction and need daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

What kind of diet should I feed my St. Bernard?

St. Bernards require a high-quality diet that is appropriate for their age and activity level. Talk to your veterinarian about the best diet for your specific dog, but in general, St. Bernards need a diet that is high in protein and moderate in fat.

Are St. Bernards good guard dogs?

While St. Bernards are large and intimidating, they are generally not good guard dogs because they are friendly and affectionate with strangers. They are more likely to greet an intruder with a wagging tail than with aggression.

Do St. Bernards drool a lot?

Yes, St. Bernards are notorious for their drooling, especially after eating or drinking. Regular wiping of their mouth can help keep drooling under control.

How often should I take my St. Bernard to the vet?

St. Bernards should have regular check-ups with a veterinarian at least once a year. They may require more frequent visits if they have any health issues or concerns.

Are St. Bernards good for first-time dog owners?

St. Bernards can make great pets for first-time dog owners if they are willing to put in the time and effort to meet their needs. However, their large size and exercise needs may be overwhelming for some owners, so it’s important to do research and be prepared for the commitment.

Conclusion

St. Bernards are lovable, friendly, and loyal dogs that make great family pets for those who are willing to put in the time and effort to meet their needs. They require plenty of exercise, training, and socialization to become well-behaved and happy pets. It’s important to do your research and be prepared for the commitment before bringing a St. Bernard into your home.