The Saint Bernard, with its large head and big powerful body, is as friendly and loving as its size. It comes from the Tibetan mastiff, and with its keen sense of smell and ability to withstand cold weather, the Saint Bernard has been used as a rescue dog in the snowy Swiss Alps. But this dog isn't for everyone. Although it is sweet and obedient, the Saint Bernard requires much training and takes much physical strength to handle, due to its massive size.
Instructions
1. Choose a Saint Bernard if you are looking for the granddaddy of watchdogs. Its size alone makes it a formidable presence to strangers.
2. Remember that a Saint Bernard is a family dog and very playful, loving and watchful with children. However, should you decide to get one, it must be supervised with children so that it doesn't knock them over.
3. Realize that despite the Saint Bernard's size, it is well-behaved indoors and not overly active. It does well in apartments, as long as it gets plenty of exercise.
4. Check out a Saint Bernard's features before you get one. There are two varieties: longhaired and shorthaired. Their coats are white with either tan, red, mahogany, brindle (gray or tawny with darker streaks or spots) or black markings on it. Overall, the Saint Bernard should appear large and muscular with a bright and friendly expression.
5. Understand the health problems that a Saint Bernard is prone to. These include wobbler syndrome (a spinal disorder), heart and skin problems, hip dysplasia (a malformed ball and socket in the hip joint) and extropion (folding eyelid). Talk to a breeder to find out what type of screening they have done for these health problems.
6. Look at potential breeders very carefully, being sure to ask whether they are members of breed clubs, specialty clubs or obedience clubs. Affiliation through a club means you can check their references to make sure they are not a puppy mill (a place where puppies are constantly bred for financial gain without consideration of the integrity of the breed).
7. Note that a Saint Bernard will reach an impressive size. Males grow to heights of 27 inches and weigh between 110 and 180 pounds. Females will reach heights of at least 25 inches and will also weigh between 110 and 180 pounds.
8. Expect a Saint Bernard to live 8 to 10 years.
9. Know that you will probably pay between $300 and $1,500 dollars for a purebred Saint Bernard.
10. Be aware that Saint Bernards are only truly happy when they are with the family. If you plan to keep yours outside, this may not be the dog for you.
11. Be prepared to enjoy a good 8 to 10 years with your Saint Bernard, as that is the Saint Bernard's average life expectancy.
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