The St. Bernard dog breed, also known as the Bernese Mountain Dog, originates from Switzerland and has its origins in the mountains. It was originally used as a working dog and was mainly responsible for working on farms and pulling wagons and sleds. Today, however, the St. Bernard is primarily a popular family dog and companion dog.

Exterior appearance

The St. Bernard is a large and powerful dog, with an average shoulder height of about 70 cm for males and about 65 cm for females. They weigh on average between 50 and 80 kg. Their coat is long and shiny and has the colors black, white and brown. This color combination is called "tricolor".

Character and personality

Saint Bernards are friendly and gentle dogs that are very affectionate and loyal to their owners. They are very patient with children and other pets, making them a good family dog. They are also very intelligent and learn quickly what they are taught.

Care and training

Saint Bernards need plenty of exercise and exercise, as they are an active and energetic breed. They are well suited for long walks or hikes in the mountains. However, they should not be kept in very hot or humid climates, as their coats cause them to overheat quickly.

Their coats should be brushed regularly to prevent matting. It is also important to check and clean your St. Bernard's eyes and ears regularly to prevent inflammation or infection.

St. Bernards are intelligent and willing to learn, but they need consistent and gentle training. It is important to teach them good manners from the beginning and to keep them regularly occupied to promote mental and physical fitness.

Health

The St. Bernard has an average life expectancy of about 7-8 years. As with many large dogs, the breed can be prone to certain health problems, including joint disease such as HD or ED and heart disease. It is important to have regular vet visits and genetic testing to detect and treat these problems early.

Another common problem in St. Bernards is obesity, as they like to eat and exercise little when they are not exercised enough. A balanced diet and enough exercise are therefore important to keep weight in check and prevent joints from becoming overworked.

Summary

The Saint Bernard is a large, friendly and affectionate dog that makes a good family pet. They are intelligent and eager to learn, but need regular exercise and training to keep them mentally and physically fit. They are also prone to certain health problems and therefore require regular veterinary checkups and a balanced diet and care. Overall, the Saint Bernard is a wonderful companion and family member if you have the responsibility and the time,