Big fluffy dog - this is the phrase that comes to people's heads when they talk about the St. Bernard breed. The characteristic of the animal is amazing, because, despite its enormous size, the dog does not have to be friendly. It is freely turned on in houses where small children and puppies or cats live.
In which mountains are bred St. Bernards
The largest breed of dogs bred in the mountains of Switzerland, more precisely - in the Alps. The history of the origin of these dogs is quite interesting. The breed got its name in honor of the monastery of St. Bernard, just located in the Alps.
In this institution lived peasants, known for the fact that they easily managed to tame wild dogs of enormous size. Such animals were very appreciated, because their whole appearance indicated that they are well adapted for life in the mountains. But at the same time, the pets were distinguished by a desire to constantly serve the person and atypical friendliness.
The question of in which mountains the St. Bernards were bred quickly ceased to be relevant, since the dogs showed yet another of their remarkable characteristics - the ability to help people.
In that area, terrible weather and constant snow avalanches were not uncommon. In this regard, travelers and other people whose path passed through the mountains were constantly in trouble.
Then the St. Bernard, whose characterization did not cease to amaze, opened on one more side. Dogs possessed powerful paws and thick hair, which allowed them to feel relatively comfortable in harsh climatic conditions. Thanks to this, dogs willingly saved people who were not lucky to get into a snowstorm. The body structure and developed sense of smell helped dogs to find travelers who had fallen under the snow, and quickly dig them out.
St. Bernards have developed intuition and high efficiency. Against the background of all of the above, it is not surprising that the breed was quickly spotted by European breeders. Thanks to their painstaking work, the St. Bernards got a modern look.
What the dogs looked like before
Saint Bernard is currently a companion dog. It is made for the soul and is perceived as a member of the family. In view of this, the dog looks massive and heavy, with thick paws, and a bit awkward due to its heavy weight.
But before, the St. Bernards were a little smaller, thinner and more mobile, because their main purpose was to help people in distress in the highlands. Only thanks to the work of professionals dogs got a modern look.
The most famous St. Bernard
In 1800, St. Bernard was born, whose characteristic surprised the whole world. The heroism of this dog is still well-known and passed down from generation to generation. Over the 12 years of his life, a dog named Barry saved the lives of 40 people. The most famous case occurred when a dog carried a injured little boy 5 kilometers to the nearest hospital in very deep snow.
A monument was erected in honor of Barry in Paris. This is a favorite attraction of indigenous people and tourists.
Greater St. Bernard is one of the favorite characters of books and films about animals. For example, “Beethoven” is one of the great films telling about the adventures of an average family and their favorite dog of this breed.
What is the difference between St. Bernard and Moscow Watchdog
Moscow Watchdog is a breed of dog that is often confused with St. Bernards. But we assure you, these are completely different animals. So, what is the difference between St. Bernard and the Moscow watchdog:
- Moscow Watchdog is a breed that was received when St. Bernard was crossed with a Caucasian shepherd. That is, it is a descendant of a large dog.
- The Moscow watchdog was bred specifically for the purpose of serving in security institutions, and St. Bernard is today a kind, friendly and clumsy companion dog.
- The Moscow watchdog has a more toned body and shorter coat, which is associated with its purpose.
These breeds were bred for different purposes, which explains the difference in their manners and appearance. Saint Bernard, whose characterization is more loyal, is in no way associated with kindness and friendliness, so it is difficult to believe that the Moscow watchdog is much more aggressive. In any case, the temperament of any dog depends on education. Each dog will honestly and faithfully serve the owner, who loves, educates and respects her.
Intellectual abilities
The adult St. Bernard looks a little clumsy, which is why many people have the impression that this breed has a small mind. In fact, these dogs are by nature human assistants. You need to have developed intuition, a broad outlook, high intelligence and excellent learning ability in order to search for affected people and provide them first aid.
A key feature of this breed is its ability to navigate in the surrounding space. St. Bernard puppies have an innate talent. In combination with devotion to a person and a desire to learn, this quality can be developed to achieve incredible results.
Breed character
St. Bernard puppies are very popular among breeders. But some people, especially those with children, are afraid to acquire this breed because of its impressive size. But fears are absolutely in vain. Saint Bernard is a friendly and good-natured dog, and also very lazy at home. The following qualities of the dog are worth noting:
- The ability to get along with children and other pets.
- The desire to please the owners in everything.
- Balanced temperament.
- Relative calm. Saint Bernard barks only for a really good reason.
- Slowness.
- Developed sense of smell.
- The constant need for the attention of the owners. Abandoned Saint Bernards become miserable.
This breed is like no other suitable for family life. St. Bernard will quickly make friends with all the households and will forever take a place in your heart.
Training process
Dogs should be trained at an early age, while their weight is still relatively small. St. Bernards is quickly bored by the learning process, so you have to show tricks to interest the dog. Since the dog is very loyal to the owners, you can go for such tricks:
- St. Bernard will constantly try to please you. Therefore, praise is the best reward for a dog.
- The dog is very upset if you are unhappy or angry with her. Therefore, be as loyal as possible in the process of training.
- Show St. Bernard that training can take place in a fun way.
If you responsibly and lovingly approach training, St. Bernard will obey you in everything.
Remember that an undressed dog of this breed can cause concern among others. St. Bernard can jump on people, and its weight usually reaches 90 kg, which will cause inconvenience to your guests and family members.
But a well-trained dog with excellent manners and goodwill will become a favorite of all those around him.
How to care for St. Bernard
Although Saint Bernard is large and long, caring for it is quite simple. It includes such items:
- Comb the hair once or twice a week. The warlocks do not appear on it, so this process will not be difficult or lengthy.
- Do not often bathe a dog, especially with shampoo. This can lead to flushing of the protective fat from the skin.
- Twice a year the dog molts. Only at this time her six requires more frequent combing.
This is all the rules for caring for St. Bernard. Separately, it is worth stopping at the dog’s nutrition.
Dog feeding
St. Bernard, whose description is quite voluminous, needs a natural diet. Its main principles are as follows:
- It is important to give the dog cereals for breakfast, and meat products for dinner.
- During the summer heat, it is not recommended to feed the dog porridges, but a pregnant St. Bernard girl should still receive a complete diet.
- Kids need to be fed 6 times a day. In the diet of puppies must necessarily include dairy or sour-milk products.
- At 3 months, puppies should be transferred to four meals a day, at 5 - three meals a day, and at 7 babies already eat like adult dogs.
- Ask the breeder who sold you the dog what products can supplement his diet.
- Do not neglect dog vitamins. Periodically they should be given to the St. Bernards.
- If you do not have time to cook food for the dog, give preference only to expensive feeds. It is better to ask the breeder which company can give food to the St. Bernards.
Dog nutrition plays a large role in its harmonious development. An unbalanced diet can lead to many pathologies.
St. Bernard's disease
Despite the huge size of the dog, the dog is susceptible to many diseases. The most famous of these are:
- Bone disease.
- Helminth infection.
- Swelling of the extremities.
- Lymphatic system problems.
- Lung and heart problems.
- Eye diseases.
- Cramps.
- Digestion problems.
To avoid these problems, you must carefully monitor the diet and daily routine of St. Bernard. Proper care and compliance with all menu rules will help prevent the development of almost all pathologies. It is also important to periodically take the dog for examination to the veterinarian in order to pre-identify all kinds of violations and quickly eliminate them.
Walking with St. Bernard
The Saint Bernard breed, the price of which is quite high, rarely gets along comfortably in an ordinary apartment. Think about whether you are willing to give money if you cannot provide your dog with regular walks.
The dog needs to be walked daily. In this case, it is important to ensure that the dog receives a sufficient number of loads. But Saint Bernard is not worth much to overload. It is enough to give him walks and allow a little jogging. Dogs also love outdoor games with the owners.
Saint Bernard and the apartment
St. Bernard, whose price is at least 10 thousand rubles, also requires cash costs for maintenance. As for space, of course, a country house is more suitable for this breed. You can only keep St. Bernard in the apartment if you are able to provide the dog with sufficient time to stay in the fresh air.
But we can not say that even in a house with a small amount of space, this breed shows a maximum of tolerance and respect for family members. The dog will never claim the entire territory of the apartment, much less take it from the owners.
Saint Bernard will be grateful to you if you put at his disposal a balcony with a heated floor. In the winter season, he will be very comfortable in the warmth and in the fresh air.
Consider in advance how you will bathe St. Bernard. The dog takes up a lot of space, so an ordinary bathtub will not suit him. It is much better if the apartment will have a spacious shower.
Breed Reviews
The Saint Bernard breed is very popular. Reviews about it overwhelm the community of lovers of these dogs and in each of them you can find something that will make you love this dog with all your heart. The owners of the St. Bernards speak of the following merits of their pets:
- It is very easy to get along with all family members.
- Madly in love with children and small animals, protect them if necessary.
- Ready to spend time with the owners day and night.
- Very compliant. If for some reason the owner cannot give time to the dog, she will patiently wait for her turn.
- They well tolerate any procedures and trips to the doctor.
- Very calm, humbly relate to walking on a leash and wearing a muzzle.
- They eat everything that the owner offers them.
In general, this pet is ideal for families. If you need a dog for yourself, then St. Bernard will become your faithful friend and devoted companion for many years. By the way, pets live for 12-15 years, and in females usually 2 to 12 puppies are born.