Instructions
Enroll your St. Bernard in obedience classes while it is still a pup. This is the best time to train any dog, but especially the giant breeds. Once your St. Bernard gets too big to scoop up in your arms and out of harm̵7;s way, you will have only your voice commands to rely on to get it to obey. There are classes that the two of you can take together that will help cement the bond you are developing. As well, the trainer can give you tips on how to work further with your St. Bernard at home.
Groom your St. Bernard frequently. This dog has a very heavy coat and sheds twice a year, in spring and fall. Tangled and matted hair, or trapped, loose hair, can cause hot spots, a very uncomfortable skin condition. Breeders suggest brushing your St. Bernard̵7;s coat at least twice a week.
Exercise is very important for the health of all dogs. St. Bernards need daily exercise to stave off obesity and boredom. Because of their size, the St. Bernard is not a particularly active dog but it will benefit from activities such as hiking and daily walks.
How to Care for St. Bernard Dogs
Without proper training, large dogs can be tough to handle. And dogs don̵7;t come much larger than the St. Bernard. This dog can grow to 30 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh up to 180 pounds. It is a heavy, powerful dog. The St. Bernard̵7;s size isn̵7;t all you need to take into consideration. They have heavy coats and drool a lot. Raising and caring for a St. Bernard is challenging but they are wonderful, even-tempered dogs.