Reputable St Bernard breeders should be your first contact if you are looking to purchase one of these beautiful dogs. Genuine breeders will have had their stud dogs screened for genetic diseases. They will also want to ensure that the gentle, protective temperament of the breed will be passed on. Pairings will be made with an eye to matching dogs which will complement each other to produce even better progeny.
The breed is listed as one of the world's largest dogs. In the breed standards set by the American Kennel Club, an upper height limit of 28 inches is set with weight between 130 to 180 pounds. The breed was developed from dogs kept at monasteries along the Swiss/Italian border. Guest houses for travellers were maintained by the monks and the dogs were kept as companions and guard dogs. The dogs were also adept at locating people lost in the snow.
Today the dogs are still used for search and rescue. Pets are used in obedience classes, carting and weight-pulling. As one of the largest of the world's dog breeds they are best suited to country living or suburbia. They are expensive to feed. They can also suffer from several genetic disorders. Because of the potential for inheritable diseases, buyers should ensure that they contact only reputable breeders when looking for a dog.
Two of the hereditary problems which can be detected by testing before a dog is used for breeding are hip and elbow dysplasia. Dogs with these conditions often suffer from arthritis later in life. Ectropion is another genetic disorder passed on to any progeny. The eyelid, usually the lower, turns outwards. This can result in episodes of conjunctivitis. Large breeds are also subject to bloat. This can be usually be prevented by feeding small meals through the day.
The body is strong and substantial. They have large heads. The eyes are dark brown with an intelligent, friendly expression. The fur is thick and dense. There are rough- and smooth-coated varieties. Regular brushing will help keep them looking good. They slobber a lot and are messy eaters. Colors for purebred dogs are restricted to red-brindle, brindle and mahogany. They often have black masks with white blazes. The chest, forelegs, collar and tip of the tail are also white.
Twice a year, the coat will be shed and brushing will help remove the loose hairs. Regular bathing is not recommended. Use a mild soap so that natural oils in the coat are depleted as little as possible. During summer, the dogs should always have shade and water available. They can become stressed if unable to cool down. Restrict exertion when the weather is hot. The average lifespan is eight to ten years.
Even when young, these dogs are so heavy that they need to be obedient. They should also be socialized while young. Train them not to jump up on people. The dogs are very intelligent and have kindly, patient dispositions.
With so much weight to carry, strong legs and well-formed feet are essential. If you would like a St Bernard, be sure to contact reputable St Bernard breeders. They will be able to help you choose the ideal companion.
The breed is listed as one of the world's largest dogs. In the breed standards set by the American Kennel Club, an upper height limit of 28 inches is set with weight between 130 to 180 pounds. The breed was developed from dogs kept at monasteries along the Swiss/Italian border. Guest houses for travellers were maintained by the monks and the dogs were kept as companions and guard dogs. The dogs were also adept at locating people lost in the snow.
Today the dogs are still used for search and rescue. Pets are used in obedience classes, carting and weight-pulling. As one of the largest of the world's dog breeds they are best suited to country living or suburbia. They are expensive to feed. They can also suffer from several genetic disorders. Because of the potential for inheritable diseases, buyers should ensure that they contact only reputable breeders when looking for a dog.
Two of the hereditary problems which can be detected by testing before a dog is used for breeding are hip and elbow dysplasia. Dogs with these conditions often suffer from arthritis later in life. Ectropion is another genetic disorder passed on to any progeny. The eyelid, usually the lower, turns outwards. This can result in episodes of conjunctivitis. Large breeds are also subject to bloat. This can be usually be prevented by feeding small meals through the day.
The body is strong and substantial. They have large heads. The eyes are dark brown with an intelligent, friendly expression. The fur is thick and dense. There are rough- and smooth-coated varieties. Regular brushing will help keep them looking good. They slobber a lot and are messy eaters. Colors for purebred dogs are restricted to red-brindle, brindle and mahogany. They often have black masks with white blazes. The chest, forelegs, collar and tip of the tail are also white.
Twice a year, the coat will be shed and brushing will help remove the loose hairs. Regular bathing is not recommended. Use a mild soap so that natural oils in the coat are depleted as little as possible. During summer, the dogs should always have shade and water available. They can become stressed if unable to cool down. Restrict exertion when the weather is hot. The average lifespan is eight to ten years.
Even when young, these dogs are so heavy that they need to be obedient. They should also be socialized while young. Train them not to jump up on people. The dogs are very intelligent and have kindly, patient dispositions.
With so much weight to carry, strong legs and well-formed feet are essential. If you would like a St Bernard, be sure to contact reputable St Bernard breeders. They will be able to help you choose the ideal companion.
About the Author:
Check out www.vonduewerhaus.com for a summary of the benefits of owning a St Bernard, now. You can also get excellent tips for choosing St Bernard breeders at http://www.vonduewerhaus.com today.
No comments:
Post a Comment