Eating Habits of Saint Bernards

Saint Bernard dogs were originally bred and used for rescue, particularly in the recovery of individuals lost in snowstorms and freezing weather. Today, Saint Bernards utilize their power and senses in competitive events and make for loyal, gentle pets. Ensuring that your Saint Bernard's feeding habits are monitored and maintained will help your pet maintain its strength and happy disposition.

  1. Meal Size

    • Monitor your Saint Bernard's food intake to avoid canine bloat or a twisted stomach.

      Saint Bernards will eat nearly anything and will do so in excess. Managing your dog's diet will ensure that it does not eat too much. Feed your Saint Bernard 6 to 12 cups of dog food a day over the course of two or three small meals. This breed is susceptible to canine bloat, so avoid allowing your Saint Bernard to eat whenever it wants to or feeding your dog one large meal a day. Saint Bernards are also prone to twisted stomachs, which can be avoided, in part, by managing these dogs' food intake.

    Nutritional Needs

    • Saint Bernards were traditionally fed mutton, goat meat, dairy products, wheat products and some vegetables.

      Saint Bernards are native to the Swiss Alps, where they were traditionally fed mutton, goat meat, dairy products, wheat products and some vegetables. Because of their size and other physical traits, Saint Bernards still require foods that share similar nutritional value with the food their ancestors ate. Provide your Saint Bernard food that has a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. When you buy or make your dog's food, the primary ingredient should be meat, preferably lamb.

    Picky Tendencies

    • Consult with a veterinarian if you're ever concerned about your Saint Bernard's eating habits.

      Saint Bernards have been described by owners and breeders as sometimes being finicky eaters. Some Saint Bernards will simply pick at their food, while others might go one or two days without eating at all. Some reasons your Saint Bernard might not be eating are that it isn't burning many calories and, consequently, isn't as hungry, or your Saint Bernard might just be temporarily tired of the food it's being fed. Call a veterinarian if concerns arise.

    Diet Exceptions

    • Your Saint Bernard's age, gender, size, health condition and activity level all factor into what kind of eating habits it develops.

      As with any dog, your Saint Bernard's eating habits and diet will ultimately rely on several factors. Your Saint Bernard's age, gender, size, health condition and activity level all factor into what kind of eating habits it develops. Consider these aspects when creating your Saint Bernard's diet. Consult a veterinarian if you have questions about your Saint Bernard's eating habits or if its eating habits change unexpectedly.