Things You'll Need
- Leash
- Collar
- Dog treats
Instructions
Socialize your Saint Bernard. Introduce her to children, adults, other dogs, and other animals. Expose her to many different sights, sounds and smells so that she learns not to be scared of new experiences and will become a confident adult. A 200-pound adult Saint Bernard can be difficult to handle if she becomes upset, frightened or aggressive, so socializing her is imperative.
Set rules for your Saint Bernard. This dog does well outdoors (though it has low heat tolerance, so provide shade and water), but can also be an indoor dog if you have the space. Establish boundaries and rules for your Saint Bernard and demand that she follow them daily and without exception.
Use positive reinforcement training techniques to teach commands to your Saint Bernard. Hold short training sessions (5 to 10 minutes) multiple times a day. Use treats to reward your Saint Bernard for correctly obeying a command. These dogs can be stubborn, and the treat can serve as encouragement to keep trying. Always make training a positive experience with treats and praise.
Leash train your Saint Bernard from the moment she arrives home as a puppy. Use treats to reward her for walking on a loose leash. Stop walking whenever your Saint Bernard puppy pulls forward, which will teach her that she gets rewards (treats and forward progression) only when the leash is loose.
Never jerk on the leash or you will teach your Saint Bernard that pulling is an acceptable response. Consider purchasing a head halter or front clipping harness if you need extra control of your Saint Bernard.
Exercise your Saint Bernard daily. These dogs are not energetic, especially in warm weather, so exercise needs can be met with moderate walks or short jogs each day. Saint Bernards are not playful dogs, so while you may entice her to play occasionally, don't expect her to get enough exercise chasing a ball or Frisbee.
Hire a professional trainer to help you address any behavior problems you can't solve on your own. Have patience and remember that puppies are just learning; but if your dog is becoming an adult Saint Bernard and retains the same behavior problems regardless of what you try, seek professional help. Problem behaviors range from aggression (which is not a common problem of Saint Bernards) to jumping up on people or pulling on the leash.