IS A SAINT RIGHT FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY?
The Basic Facts
No matter what you may have heard or been told:
1. There are both shorthaired (smooth coat) and longhaired (rough coat) Saints. Both coat types are of equal value. And twice a year, usually in Spring and Autumn, they lose most of their coat to help them adjust to the changing seasons. For the remainder of the year there is seldom any annoyance from shedding.
2. Saints SHED and DROOL. THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A “DRY MOUTH” Saint Bernard. While some may drool less than others all produce saliva in varying amounts.
3. LIFE EXPECTANCY of a Saint Bernard is about 8 to 10 years which is similar to that of any other GIANT breed.
4. An Australian National Kennel Council Limited Registration and/or a Spay/Neuter contract are documents which indicate that your puppy can or cannot be used for breeding. Neutered animals are eligible to participate Conformation Shows and obedience trials. For further information on rights and obligations contact Dogs NSW at www.dogsnsw.org.au.
5. Read all papers before signing them. A Saint is an investment for a lifetime. If you find the words “NO GUARANTEES” anywhere on any papers you receive with your puppy they mean just that – NOTHING YOU HAVE BEEN TOLD IS GUARANTEED UNLESS IT IS IN WRITING.
6. NEVER BUY A SAINT SIGHT UNSEEN OVER THE INTERNET-NEVER!! Whilst there is nothing wrong with initially finding a breeder online, it is essential to then meet the breeder and ensure they are doing all of the right things with regard to raising puppies and housing etc. Otherwise you could be buying your Saint from a puppy farmer who could be misleading you with false information regarding ANKC breeder registration details, the registrations details, microchipping details and paperwork and also where the puppies are actually being bred.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Are They Good Watch Dogs?
The Saint’s size and bark will discourage most intruders yet he will learn to recognize your friends and receive them cordially if trained to do so. If an intruder gets by the size and barks your Saint may decide to lead him straight to the family silver since he would much prefer to be a friend to all. The one exception to this is when a member of the family is being threatened. The Saint’s instinct to protect those he loves becomes very apparent at this time.
Are Saints Easy To Train?
Because of their size the Saint Bernard MUST be trained and this must be done early in his life. Fortunately, Saints are eager to please and will begin responding to commands as soon as they understand what you want of them. Training a Saint Bernard can be a great joy .But a happy relaxed relationship with your Saint does not happen automatically. You must teach him a few simple rules of behaviour so that he respects you and develops into a well mannered, obedient family member who is a pleasure to both you and your neighbours. Training your dog can be fun and easy. You require no special skills. It needs only 10-15 minutes a day. With a little patience and persistence you will have a well-behaved, obedient and happy Saint. (Please also see the Training & Behaviour page).
How Much Room Do They Need?
The Saint by nature does not require acres and acres to roam. They are not as active or nervous as some breeds and are content to remain close to home for the most part. Consequently an average fenced yard is adequate as long as there is some place for regular exercise and daily short walks are recommended.
How Much Does A Saint Weigh?
Saint Bernard puppies weigh about one-half kilogram at birth and grow rapidly during the first year, although it may take as long as three years before they reach full maturity. Adult males may reach a height of 70-90 centimetres at the shoulder and will normally weigh between 70 and 80 kilograms. Females are somewhat smaller at about 65-80 centimetres at the shoulder and typically range from 60 to 70 kilograms.
What Health Issues Can Be A Problem?
Hip Dysplasia - Hip Dysplasia is by definition an ill-fitting hip. This can be caused by having shallow sockets, abnormal heads and necks of the femur and from excessively loose ligaments. Hip Dysplasia is a polygenetic inherited condition that is affected by environmental influences such as weight, diet and exercise, which can interact to cause rapid wear and tear of the hip joint leading to arthritic change. Hip Dysplasia is a definite problem in Saint Bernards that needs to be assessed and taken into account before heavily working, exercising or breeding with an animal. Hip Dysplasia is a complex genetic and environmental problem but should be kept in its proper perspective relative to the breed as a whole. It is one genetic problem, not the only one.
Elbow Dysplasia - Elbow disease is the preferred term to be used when talking about elbow problems in growing dogs. Unfortunately "elbow dysplasia" was the name given to the condition of ununited anconeal process and this term is closely linked in this way in the minds of most veterinarians and some dog breeders. Elbow disease is a general term to denote joint problems in growing dogs and it includes ununited anconeal process (UAP), fragmented medial coronoid process (FCP) and osteochondrosis of the medial condyle of the humerus (OCD). These are the three most important conditions although there are a number of uncommon conditions included in the term.
Eyes - Ectropian - Ectropian (the opposite of entropian) occurs when the lower eyelids roll away from the eyeball. Ectropian is common in breeds with loose facial skin. As the eyeball is insufficiently protected it is open to infection. Surgery is available to correct this problem.
Eyes - Entropian - Entropian (the opposite of ectropian) is a condition in which the eyelids turn inwards causing the dog's eyelashes to rub against the cornea. This eventually causes ulcers to form and is extremely painful for the dog and if not treated can lead to blindness. There is surgery available to correct this problem but as some breeds are more prone to it than others it is best not to breed individual dogs that develop this condition.
Bloat/gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) - This is a life-threatening condition that acts rapidly and can lead to death within hours of its onset if not recognized and treated immediately. Unfortunately, the specific cause of bloat remains unknown at this time. For all practical purposes we can think of it as an “epileptic seizure” of the stomach. The scientific term for bloat is gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). Bloat is characterized by the rapid and abnormal expansion of the stomach with gas (dilatation). This can be followed by rotation of the stomach (volculus). This rotation closes both the entry to and exit from the stomach. The blood vessels are also closed down and the blood flow is restricted.
What follows is an increase in the pressure inside of the stomach. It’s something like twisting a partially inflated balloon, so to speak. As a result of all this the surrounding organs are affected because they become compressed. Eventually, the dog will go into shock. And as with many medical emergencies, treat for shock first.
There are a number of symptoms to keep watch for, including whining, pacing and an inability to settle. There are guidelines designed to help manage the occurrence of bloat. They are suggested based upon suspected risk factors however they are not guaranteed to prevent the onset of bloat/GDV and include feeding small amounts of food often ie. at least twice a day, avoiding excessive exercise or play one hour before meals and for two hours after meals, not allowing a large consumption of water immediately before or after eating or exercise, avoiding rapid or stressful eating conditions, feed at times when you can observe the dog in the period after they have been fed and also avoiding abrupt diet changes.
Seek veterinary attention IMMEDIATELY when signs of bloat occur. (Please also see the More Information page).
How Child & Family Friendly Are Saints?
A few generations ago our forebears were fond of depicting dogs and children together in art and often showed them in an obviously trusting and loving relationship. This relationship has also been honoured in children’s film and literature ranging from Lassie to Peter Pan and today generations have grown up not only having experienced a wonderful time with childhood pets but wishing their own children to have the same experience. Addressing a few basic issues, this is possible. (Please also see the Training & Behaviour page).
A dog needs to be a part of his “human family”. Left to his own devices in the backyard, lonely, bored, uneducated in simple canine good manners and unused to being handled he will eventually be discarded as “unsuitable for the children”.
Puppies must be taught not to use their mouth on humans - even in play. They must be taught to tolerate having their ears, mouth, feet and tail gently handled and to allow food to be gently taken from their mouth. All these experiences will help ensure that the puppy is tolerant of any children who perform these actions. Teaching the puppy to sit before being patted will ensure that the dog does not jump for attention and knock children down.
Puppy pre-schools and obedience classes are excellent for the first time dog owner to learn how to get the dog to respond to his wishes.
Young children’s lives are a continuous learning experience – not to play with power points, not to run across the road, not to hit a sibling etc., and learning how to play with the family dog is just as important, yet simple, as learning these other lessons. Although many dogs will tolerate almost any behaviour from children they should not be expected to do so. Children who are not taught that it is very wrong to hit, kick, pinch or torment their own dog may one day meet a dog who is not so tolerant. Children should be seated before picking up a puppy, as a squirming puppy will usually be dropped.
A “safe” area should be provided where the puppy can go for rest and children should be told that they must not disturb him. Over-tired children and dogs both get cranky!
Many families with older dogs face the situation of introducing a new baby to the family dog. Parents are usually well aware of how to prevent an older child from becoming jealous of a new baby and, with very little modification, these same principles can be applied to introducing a new baby into a dog’s routine.
It is part of good parenting to always supervise all activities of babies and small children and their time with the family dog should be no exception. It is the parents who need to show good judgement that both the child and dog are of an age where both can understand how to play gently and reliably together.
A few basic rules for parents to instil in their children are:
1. Children should be taught not to run up to any dog and always ask permission of the owner to pat a unfamiliar dog. They should be taught not to hug strange dogs or to reach over the dog’s head to pat it on top of the head.
2. If a dog is uneasy or tired of playing with children and tries to get away from them they must be told and made not follow it.
Dog owners should observe the following guidelines with visiting children:
1. Dogs who are not used to children may be uneasy with their movements and sounds. If a dog is uneasy with visiting children he is better secured in a favourite area where the children can't access him.
2. Don’t try to force your dog to allow a child to pat or play with it.
The best relationship between dogs and children, is between a good natured, kindly child and a good natured, good mannered and trusting dog who will listen to their woes, watch television with them, and love them unconditionally and remain in their memories for the rest of their lives.
- This information has been taken from the Club's Breed Information Book First Printed in May 2002
No matter what you may have heard or been told:
1. There are both shorthaired (smooth coat) and longhaired (rough coat) Saints. Both coat types are of equal value. And twice a year, usually in Spring and Autumn, they lose most of their coat to help them adjust to the changing seasons. For the remainder of the year there is seldom any annoyance from shedding.
2. Saints SHED and DROOL. THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A “DRY MOUTH” Saint Bernard. While some may drool less than others all produce saliva in varying amounts.
3. LIFE EXPECTANCY of a Saint Bernard is about 8 to 10 years which is similar to that of any other GIANT breed.
4. An Australian National Kennel Council Limited Registration and/or a Spay/Neuter contract are documents which indicate that your puppy can or cannot be used for breeding. Neutered animals are eligible to participate Conformation Shows and obedience trials. For further information on rights and obligations contact Dogs NSW at www.dogsnsw.org.au.
5. Read all papers before signing them. A Saint is an investment for a lifetime. If you find the words “NO GUARANTEES” anywhere on any papers you receive with your puppy they mean just that – NOTHING YOU HAVE BEEN TOLD IS GUARANTEED UNLESS IT IS IN WRITING.
6. NEVER BUY A SAINT SIGHT UNSEEN OVER THE INTERNET-NEVER!! Whilst there is nothing wrong with initially finding a breeder online, it is essential to then meet the breeder and ensure they are doing all of the right things with regard to raising puppies and housing etc. Otherwise you could be buying your Saint from a puppy farmer who could be misleading you with false information regarding ANKC breeder registration details, the registrations details, microchipping details and paperwork and also where the puppies are actually being bred.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Are They Good Watch Dogs?
The Saint’s size and bark will discourage most intruders yet he will learn to recognize your friends and receive them cordially if trained to do so. If an intruder gets by the size and barks your Saint may decide to lead him straight to the family silver since he would much prefer to be a friend to all. The one exception to this is when a member of the family is being threatened. The Saint’s instinct to protect those he loves becomes very apparent at this time.
Are Saints Easy To Train?
Because of their size the Saint Bernard MUST be trained and this must be done early in his life. Fortunately, Saints are eager to please and will begin responding to commands as soon as they understand what you want of them. Training a Saint Bernard can be a great joy .But a happy relaxed relationship with your Saint does not happen automatically. You must teach him a few simple rules of behaviour so that he respects you and develops into a well mannered, obedient family member who is a pleasure to both you and your neighbours. Training your dog can be fun and easy. You require no special skills. It needs only 10-15 minutes a day. With a little patience and persistence you will have a well-behaved, obedient and happy Saint. (Please also see the Training & Behaviour page).
How Much Room Do They Need?
The Saint by nature does not require acres and acres to roam. They are not as active or nervous as some breeds and are content to remain close to home for the most part. Consequently an average fenced yard is adequate as long as there is some place for regular exercise and daily short walks are recommended.
How Much Does A Saint Weigh?
Saint Bernard puppies weigh about one-half kilogram at birth and grow rapidly during the first year, although it may take as long as three years before they reach full maturity. Adult males may reach a height of 70-90 centimetres at the shoulder and will normally weigh between 70 and 80 kilograms. Females are somewhat smaller at about 65-80 centimetres at the shoulder and typically range from 60 to 70 kilograms.
What Health Issues Can Be A Problem?
Hip Dysplasia - Hip Dysplasia is by definition an ill-fitting hip. This can be caused by having shallow sockets, abnormal heads and necks of the femur and from excessively loose ligaments. Hip Dysplasia is a polygenetic inherited condition that is affected by environmental influences such as weight, diet and exercise, which can interact to cause rapid wear and tear of the hip joint leading to arthritic change. Hip Dysplasia is a definite problem in Saint Bernards that needs to be assessed and taken into account before heavily working, exercising or breeding with an animal. Hip Dysplasia is a complex genetic and environmental problem but should be kept in its proper perspective relative to the breed as a whole. It is one genetic problem, not the only one.
Elbow Dysplasia - Elbow disease is the preferred term to be used when talking about elbow problems in growing dogs. Unfortunately "elbow dysplasia" was the name given to the condition of ununited anconeal process and this term is closely linked in this way in the minds of most veterinarians and some dog breeders. Elbow disease is a general term to denote joint problems in growing dogs and it includes ununited anconeal process (UAP), fragmented medial coronoid process (FCP) and osteochondrosis of the medial condyle of the humerus (OCD). These are the three most important conditions although there are a number of uncommon conditions included in the term.
Eyes - Ectropian - Ectropian (the opposite of entropian) occurs when the lower eyelids roll away from the eyeball. Ectropian is common in breeds with loose facial skin. As the eyeball is insufficiently protected it is open to infection. Surgery is available to correct this problem.
Eyes - Entropian - Entropian (the opposite of ectropian) is a condition in which the eyelids turn inwards causing the dog's eyelashes to rub against the cornea. This eventually causes ulcers to form and is extremely painful for the dog and if not treated can lead to blindness. There is surgery available to correct this problem but as some breeds are more prone to it than others it is best not to breed individual dogs that develop this condition.
Bloat/gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) - This is a life-threatening condition that acts rapidly and can lead to death within hours of its onset if not recognized and treated immediately. Unfortunately, the specific cause of bloat remains unknown at this time. For all practical purposes we can think of it as an “epileptic seizure” of the stomach. The scientific term for bloat is gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). Bloat is characterized by the rapid and abnormal expansion of the stomach with gas (dilatation). This can be followed by rotation of the stomach (volculus). This rotation closes both the entry to and exit from the stomach. The blood vessels are also closed down and the blood flow is restricted.
What follows is an increase in the pressure inside of the stomach. It’s something like twisting a partially inflated balloon, so to speak. As a result of all this the surrounding organs are affected because they become compressed. Eventually, the dog will go into shock. And as with many medical emergencies, treat for shock first.
There are a number of symptoms to keep watch for, including whining, pacing and an inability to settle. There are guidelines designed to help manage the occurrence of bloat. They are suggested based upon suspected risk factors however they are not guaranteed to prevent the onset of bloat/GDV and include feeding small amounts of food often ie. at least twice a day, avoiding excessive exercise or play one hour before meals and for two hours after meals, not allowing a large consumption of water immediately before or after eating or exercise, avoiding rapid or stressful eating conditions, feed at times when you can observe the dog in the period after they have been fed and also avoiding abrupt diet changes.
Seek veterinary attention IMMEDIATELY when signs of bloat occur. (Please also see the More Information page).
How Child & Family Friendly Are Saints?
A few generations ago our forebears were fond of depicting dogs and children together in art and often showed them in an obviously trusting and loving relationship. This relationship has also been honoured in children’s film and literature ranging from Lassie to Peter Pan and today generations have grown up not only having experienced a wonderful time with childhood pets but wishing their own children to have the same experience. Addressing a few basic issues, this is possible. (Please also see the Training & Behaviour page).
A dog needs to be a part of his “human family”. Left to his own devices in the backyard, lonely, bored, uneducated in simple canine good manners and unused to being handled he will eventually be discarded as “unsuitable for the children”.
Puppies must be taught not to use their mouth on humans - even in play. They must be taught to tolerate having their ears, mouth, feet and tail gently handled and to allow food to be gently taken from their mouth. All these experiences will help ensure that the puppy is tolerant of any children who perform these actions. Teaching the puppy to sit before being patted will ensure that the dog does not jump for attention and knock children down.
Puppy pre-schools and obedience classes are excellent for the first time dog owner to learn how to get the dog to respond to his wishes.
Young children’s lives are a continuous learning experience – not to play with power points, not to run across the road, not to hit a sibling etc., and learning how to play with the family dog is just as important, yet simple, as learning these other lessons. Although many dogs will tolerate almost any behaviour from children they should not be expected to do so. Children who are not taught that it is very wrong to hit, kick, pinch or torment their own dog may one day meet a dog who is not so tolerant. Children should be seated before picking up a puppy, as a squirming puppy will usually be dropped.
A “safe” area should be provided where the puppy can go for rest and children should be told that they must not disturb him. Over-tired children and dogs both get cranky!
Many families with older dogs face the situation of introducing a new baby to the family dog. Parents are usually well aware of how to prevent an older child from becoming jealous of a new baby and, with very little modification, these same principles can be applied to introducing a new baby into a dog’s routine.
It is part of good parenting to always supervise all activities of babies and small children and their time with the family dog should be no exception. It is the parents who need to show good judgement that both the child and dog are of an age where both can understand how to play gently and reliably together.
A few basic rules for parents to instil in their children are:
1. Children should be taught not to run up to any dog and always ask permission of the owner to pat a unfamiliar dog. They should be taught not to hug strange dogs or to reach over the dog’s head to pat it on top of the head.
2. If a dog is uneasy or tired of playing with children and tries to get away from them they must be told and made not follow it.
Dog owners should observe the following guidelines with visiting children:
1. Dogs who are not used to children may be uneasy with their movements and sounds. If a dog is uneasy with visiting children he is better secured in a favourite area where the children can't access him.
2. Don’t try to force your dog to allow a child to pat or play with it.
The best relationship between dogs and children, is between a good natured, kindly child and a good natured, good mannered and trusting dog who will listen to their woes, watch television with them, and love them unconditionally and remain in their memories for the rest of their lives.
- This information has been taken from the Club's Breed Information Book First Printed in May 2002
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