![St. Bernard Dog Breed](/sites/default/files/styles/square_medium_440x440/public/2022-08/St-Bernard.jpg?itok=XG8nAZHH)
Family-friendly: | 5/5 |
Exercise needs: | 2/5 |
Easy to train: | 2/5 |
Tolerates being alone: | 1/5 |
Likes other pets: | 5/5 |
Energy level: | 3/5 |
Grooming needs: | 4/5 |
Shedding: | 4/5 |
The St Bernard breed is prone to:
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Osteochondritis dissecans
- Gastric dilatation volvulus
- Cruciate disease which is where the ligaments in the knee become diseased and damaged which can lead to pain and limping
- Entropion and/or ectropion which are painful conditions where the eyelids turn inwards or outwards, this happens as a result of excessive skin around the eyes
- Dilated cardiomyopathy¹ which is a condition where the heart muscle becomes progressively weak and cannot beat properly
- Osteosarcomas which are a serious type of bone cancer
- Ear infections
- Skin infections, especially around their lip folds
Priority Kennel Club health schemes and testing:
- Hip dysplasia screening scheme
A 'gentle giant' sums up the character of the St. Bernard. They are good-humoured, trustworthy and love family life. They are very loyal dogs who rarely bark, but will defend you and your possessions if they deem necessary. They normally accept other household animals with no problems. Young dogs must be taught from an early age not to pull on their leads, as this habit will be problematic when they are older and enormous!