St. Bernards are beloved dogs known for their gentle nature and large size.
Many people have heard fascinating stories about these gentle giants, but not all of them are true. Some common beliefs about St. Bernards can be misleading and may even prevent you from understanding what makes them unique.
If you’re curious about St. Bernards, it’s time to separate fact from fiction.
You’ll discover that many myths can shape perceptions of this breed in ways that don’t reflect reality.
In this article, you’ll learn about four popular myths that you might want to reconsider.
1) St. Bernards don’t drool excessively
Many people believe that St. Bernards do not drool a lot, but this isn’t true.
This breed is known for its drooling due to its unique physical traits.
Their large jowls and loose lips can cause saliva to collect and drip.
Drooling is a natural behavior for these gentle giants.
It can happen when they are excited, seeing food, or even when they are just relaxed.
The amount can vary from dog to dog, but it’s important to expect some drool.
If you have a St. Bernard or are thinking of getting one, be prepared for a bit of drool.
You might want to keep some towels handy around your home.
With a little preparation, you can enjoy all the love and companionship that a St. Bernard offers, drooling and all.
Don’t let myths fool you—embrace the drool as part of having this loving breed.
2) They’re not just rescue dogs
Many people see St. Bernards as only rescue dogs from snowy mountains.
While they do have a history of saving lives, there’s much more to these gentle giants.
St. Bernards are known for their friendly and calm nature, making them great family pets.
They thrive in a loving environment and enjoy spending time with people.
Besides their rescue work, you will find them excelling in obedience and therapy roles.
Their size and strength are impressive, but it’s their gentle behavior that truly shines.
These dogs are also playful and love to be part of family activities.
They enjoy playing outside, going for walks, and just hanging out with you.
Socializing them from a young age helps them become well-rounded dogs.
It allows them to showcase their playful and affectionate side.
So, while they may be famous for their rescue missions, don’t forget that St. Bernards are much more than that.
They can be loving companions, loyal friends, and even great helpers.
3) St. Bernards need moderate exercise
Many people think St. Bernards require a lot of exercise, but that’s not true.
They actually need moderate activity to stay healthy.
Daily walks are essential.
Aim for 30 to 60 minutes each day.
It’s okay to break this up into shorter walks if needed.
Just make sure to keep a steady pace.
While these gentle giants enjoy being active, they aren’t high-energy dogs.
Simple activities like playing in the yard or a short run can help increase their heart rate without overexerting them.
Take care not to push them too hard, especially in hot weather. St. Bernards are sensitive to heat and can easily become overheated.
Keeping their exercise routine balanced helps prevent injuries.
Always watch out for signs of tiredness or discomfort during activities.
Your dog’s health is important, and a moderate exercise plan will keep them happy and fit.
4) They adapt well to families
St. Bernards can make great family dogs.
They are known for their gentle and friendly nature.
With the right training and socialization, they fit well into the family setting.
These dogs are usually good with children.
Their calm demeanor helps them interact safely and happily with kids.
They can handle a lot of love and playtime without getting upset.
It’s important to remember that not all St. Bernards are the same.
Some may be more reserved or shy, especially if they haven’t been socialized properly.
Always take the time to introduce them to new people and situations.
St. Bernards need space since they are large dogs.
Having a yard or enough room at home is beneficial.
They enjoy being around their families, so including them in daily activities helps strengthen your bond.
With a little patience and effort, your St. Bernard can become a cherished part of your family.
These lovable companions thrive in a warm and nurturing environment, making them a joy to have around.
Understanding St Bernard Traits
When it comes to St. Bernards, their unique traits set them apart as a beloved breed.
They are not just large dogs; they come with distinct characteristics that are important to know.
Temperament and Behavior
St. Bernards are known for their gentle and friendly nature.
They are typically great with children and can be very affectionate with their families.
Despite their size, they are patient and calm, making them good companions.
This breed is often described as easygoing. St. Bernards enjoy spending time with people and are known to be quite social.
They generally get along well with other pets, which makes them great additions to family life.
However, they can be somewhat stubborn.
Training should start early and be consistent.
Positive reinforcement works best with these gentle giants.
Size and Appearance
St. Bernards are among the largest dog breeds.
Males usually weigh between 140 to 180 pounds, while females range from 110 to 150 pounds.
Their big, powerful bodies are covered in dense fur that can come in shades of white, brown, or brindle.
You’ll notice their distinctive facial features.
They have a broad head with kind, expressive eyes.
Their ears are medium-sized, hanging close to their head, giving them a friendly look.
Due to their size, they need space to move around comfortably.
Proper exercise is essential to keep them healthy and happy.
Regular grooming helps control shedding and keeps their coat looking good.
Common Misconceptions
Many people hold incorrect beliefs about St. Bernards regarding their health and care needs.
This section will clarify some of the common myths surrounding these gentle giants.
Health and Lifespan
A common myth is that St. Bernards have short lifespans.
While it’s true they tend to live around 8 to 10 years, with proper care, some can live longer.
Many factors can influence their health, including genetics and diet.
Regular vet check-ups are important.
They are prone to specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia and heart problems.
Feeding them a balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight helps prevent these problems.
Exercise is also crucial.
It’s a misconception that these dogs are lazy.
They require daily walks and playtime.
Keeping them active promotes physical and mental well-being, enhancing their quality of life.
Care Requirements
Many think St. Bernards need a lot of space and are not suitable for smaller homes.
This isn’t entirely true.
While they are large, they adapt well to various living situations, as long as they get enough exercise.
Grooming also may seem overwhelming due to their thick coats.
Regular brushing, especially during shedding season, helps keep their fur healthy and reduces loose hair around your home.
Socialization is key.
These dogs thrive on companionship and love being around people and other pets.
Early training and socialization can make a big difference in behavior and temperament.
So, don’t buy into the myths!
Frequently Asked Questions
You might have some common questions about St. Bernards.
Here are answers to help clear up any myths you may have heard.
What’s the real story behind the barrels St. Bernards supposedly carried?
The image of St. Bernards carrying barrels of brandy is mostly a myth.
This idea likely came from their association with rescue missions in the snowy Alps.
In reality, these dogs were trained to find lost travelers, not to provide them with alcohol.
Do Saint Bernards really need a ton of space to be happy?
St. Bernards are large dogs, but they don’t necessarily need a huge amount of space.
A moderate area for them to move around, along with daily walks, is enough.
They can adapt well to families living in houses or apartments, as long as they get enough exercise and attention.
Are St. Bernards as friendly as they look, or is that just a myth?
Yes, St. Bernards are known for their friendly and gentle nature.
They are typically very good with kids and other pets.
Their calm demeanor makes them great family dogs and companions.
How true is it that Saint Bernards are major droolers?
While St. Bernards can drool, they do not drool excessively all the time.
Like many large breeds, they may drool after eating or drinking, but this is usually not constant.
So, the idea that they are nonstop droolers is an exaggeration.
What’s the life expectancy of a Saint Bernard, and what health issues should owners watch for?
St. Bernards have a life expectancy of around 8 to 10 years.
Common health issues include hip dysplasia, heart problems, and bloat.
Regular vet check-ups are important to catch any potential issues early.
Can St. Bernards handle hot climates, or do they need snow?
St. Bernards are better suited for cooler climates due to their thick fur.
While they can adapt to warmer weather, it’s crucial to keep them cool and hydrated.
Avoid long outdoor activities during hot days to ensure their comfort and health.