Saint Bernards are one of the most beloved and iconic breeds of dog in the world, known for their size and strength, as well as their gentle and loyal nature. But are they good guard dogs? It’s an important question to ask if you’re considering getting a Saint Bernard for a pet or for security purposes.
The History of the Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is a breed of very large working dog from the Swiss Alps. It is believed that the breed was developed around the 17th century from crosses between the Great Dane and the Newfoundland. The Saint Bernard was bred for its strength and power, and was used by the monks of the Great St. Bernard Hospice to rescue lost or injured travelers in the harsh winter terrain of the Swiss Alps.
Are Saint Bernards Good Guard Dogs?
The short answer is yes, Saint Bernards can be good guard dogs. They are large, strong, and loyal animals that have a natural instinct to protect their family and territory. They also have an impressive bark that can be used to deter potential intruders. However, it’s important to remember that no single breed of dog is perfect for every situation, so it’s important to consider the individual traits of your particular dog when deciding if a Saint Bernard is right for you.
The Pros and Cons of a Saint Bernard as a Guard Dog
There are both pros and cons to having a Saint Bernard as a guard dog. On the plus side, these dogs are loyal and protective of their families, and their size and bark can be an effective deterrent for potential intruders. They are also intelligent and trainable, so with the proper training, they can be taught to respond to commands quickly and efficiently.
On the downside, Saint Bernards are not highly aggressive dogs and may not be suitable for those looking for a guard dog to deter intruders. Additionally, these dogs are incredibly friendly and loving, often to the point of being too trusting. This can make them vulnerable to manipulation or attack from an intruder.
Tips for Training a Saint Bernard as a Guard Dog
If you decide that a Saint Bernard is the right guard dog for you, there are a few things you can do to ensure that your pet is well-trained and capable of doing its job properly. The most important thing is to start training your dog early, while it is still a puppy. This will help your dog understand what is expected of it and will make it easier to teach it commands and behaviors.
It’s also important to socialize your Saint Bernard with other dogs and people. This will help it become more comfortable and trusting, as well as help it understand how to interact with strangers.
Finally, make sure to provide your Saint Bernard with plenty of exercise and stimulation. This will help keep it healthy and alert, and will also help it remain attentive and focused when it needs to guard your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of the Saint Bernard breed?
The Saint Bernard is a breed of very large working dog from the Swiss Alps that is believed to have been developed around the 17th century from crosses between the Great Dane and the Newfoundland.
Are Saint Bernards good guard dogs?
Yes, Saint Bernards can be good guard dogs. They are large, strong, loyal animals that have a natural instinct to protect their family and territory. They also have an impressive bark that can be used to deter potential intruders.
What are the pros and cons of a Saint Bernard as a guard dog?
The pros of a Saint Bernard as a guard dog include their loyalty, size, bark, and intelligence. The cons include their non-aggressive nature, which may not be suitable for those looking for a guard dog to deter intruders, and their trusting nature, which can make them vulnerable.
What tips should I follow if I want to train a Saint Bernard as a guard dog?
If you want to train a Saint Bernard as a guard dog, you should start training it early, while it’s still a puppy, socialize it with other dogs and people, and provide it with plenty of exercise and stimulation.
What type of behavior can I expect from a Saint Bernard as a guard dog?
You can expect a Saint Bernard to be loyal, protective, and attentive when it is guarding your home. It should respond quickly and efficiently to commands, and be alert and aware of its environment.
Are Saint Bernards easy to train?
Yes, Saint Bernards are intelligent and trainable, so with the proper training, they can be taught to respond to commands quickly and efficiently.
How big do Saint Bernards get?
Saint Bernards can grow to be very large dogs. Males typically weigh between 140 and 180 pounds and stand between 24 and 27 inches tall at the shoulder. Females are usually smaller, weighing between 110 and 140 pounds and standing between 23 and 26 inches tall at the shoulder.
Are Saint Bernards friendly?
Yes, Saint Bernards are known for being friendly and loving animals. However, they also have a strong instinct to protect their family and territory.
Do Saint Bernards shed a lot?
Yes, Saint Bernards shed a lot of hair throughout the year. They should be brushed frequently to keep their coats healthy and to reduce the amount of shedding.
Are Saint Bernards prone to any health problems?
Yes, like all breeds of dog, Saint Bernards are prone to certain health problems. These can include hip and elbow dysplasia, eye problems, heart disease, and bloat.
How much exercise do Saint Bernards need?
Saint Bernards need a moderate amount of exercise each day. They should be taken for a walk or jog for at least 30 minutes each day, or given plenty of time to play and explore in a safe, enclosed area.
How long do Saint Bernards live?
Saint Bernards typically have a lifespan of 8 to 10 years. However, they can live longer with proper care and nutrition.
Are Saint Bernards good with children?
Yes, Saint Bernards are usually good with children, as long as they are socialized and trained properly. They are also very gentle and loyal, which makes them excellent family pets.