How To Select a Saint Bernard

Once you have owned a Saint Bernard you'll know what it means to have one of the sweetest, gentlest large dogs in existence. Saint Bernards have the kind of nature that make them perfect for families with children, and their loving nature will endear the hearts of all that have the privilege of being a friend to this gentle giant of a dog. It is important to know that Saint Bernards do not do well if they have to stay outside and should be welcomed in your home, so be sure you have enough room to accommodate them and enough time to play with them and walk them on a regular basis.

1. Consider the maintenance of a large breed. Another thing to consider is the maintenance of this large breed dog. Professional groomers can charge over 100.00 to bathe and groom your Saint Bernard and also keep in mind the amount of food that will be necessary to feed him.
2. What to look for. Saint Bernards should appear to be large in stature as well as muscular in tone. Their eyes should be alert and their faces content and friendly. Although the short haired Saint Bernards are more popular and more available, the long haired Saint Bernards are just as lovely and no different in personality characteristics. Their multicolored coat in contrast to the bright patterns of white make for a strikingly beautiful coat. Colors vary from deeper tans and reds to blacks and grays.
3. Common complications for a Saint Bernard. The Saint Bernard is known for having some back problems (never put your small child on your large dog's back to ride) and they have some skin problems and sometimes issues with folds of skin covering their eyes, but a good and honest breeder will tell you if any of their pups have been known to have any of these problems.
4. Know the size of your Saint Bernard. Typically the female Saint Bernards are smaller than the males but they all have a range of 110 to 180 pounds and a height range of 25 to 27 inches measuring to the shoulder. If the breeders have the parents on site it should give you an idea of the adult size your new pup will obtain.

One thing you can be sure of, the Saint Bernard you choose will bring you many years of love and devotion and will be worth the extra time and attention this truly delightful large breed of dog requires. If you are looking for a loving new family member, and understand the responsibility of owning and loving one of these wonderful dogs then you can't go wrong with the Saint Bernard, who's love is in direct proportion to their size.