Should I Get a St Bernard?
Their Sheer Size and the Sound of Their Barks Can Make Bernies a Really Good Watchdog. They Are Also Fiercely Protective of Those They Love. Their Intense...
Their sheer size and the sound of their barks can make Bernies a really good watchdog. They are also fiercely protective of those they love. Their intense desire to please their owners usually makes them easy to train and ideal house protectors.
Why you shouldn't get a St Bernard?
Saint Bernards need extensive exposure to people and to unusual sights and sounds. Otherwise their natural caution can become extreme shyness, suspiciousness, or aggression, all of which are difficult to live with, especially with such a massive dog. Heavy shedding. Saint Bernards shed a LOT.
Is a St Bernard a good first dog?
No.
However, while this lovable giant can be a fantastic addition to a family, he can also be very stubborn, and without proper socialization early on (and we do mean early, because, sadly, Saint Bernards usually live only seven to 10 years), he can develop temperament issues.