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St. Bernards are gentle giants with big hearts and even bigger needs. If you’re a St. Bernard owner, ensuring your home is equipped with the right items will help cater to their size, temperament, and specific health requirements. Here are 10 essential things every St. Bernard owner should have:
Extra-Large Orthopedic Dog Bed
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St. Bernards can weigh over 150 pounds, making a sturdy, extra-large orthopedic bed essential. This type of bed provides ample support for their joints and bones, which is important given their predisposition to hip dysplasia and other joint issues.
Heavy-Duty Grooming Tools
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With their thick, dense coats, St. Bernards require frequent grooming. A heavy-duty slicker brush and de-shedding tool are crucial to manage shedding and prevent matting. These tools help keep their coat healthy and reduce the likelihood of overheating, a common issue for large breeds with double coats.
Durable, Extra-Large Water Bowl
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Due to their size and drooling habits, St. Bernards need a large, heavy-duty water bowl that stays in place. A bowl with a no-spill design or one that’s elevated can help reduce the mess and ensure they have constant access to water, which is vital for their health.
Cooling Mat or Fan
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St. Bernards are prone to overheating because of their thick fur and large size. A cooling mat or fan is an effective way to help them regulate their body temperature during warm weather. This is especially important to prevent heat exhaustion, which can be dangerous for this breed.
High-Quality Joint Supplements
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Heavy-Duty Chew Toys
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St. Bernards love to chew, and their powerful jaws can easily destroy regular toys. Providing them with durable, large-sized chew toys like KONGs or rubber bones will not only keep them entertained but also promote healthy teeth and gums. Be sure to choose toys designed for giant breeds.
Sturdy No-Pull Harness
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Walking a St. Bernard can be a challenge due to their strength and size. A sturdy no-pull harness is essential for safe walks, providing better control without straining their neck. This is especially helpful for St. Bernards, who may not always be aware of their own power.
Raised Food Bowl
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St. Bernards are prone to bloat, a serious and potentially fatal condition in large dogs. A raised food bowl can help reduce the risk by encouraging slower eating and improving digestion. It also helps relieve pressure on their neck and joints when they eat, given their large stature.
Grooming Wipes or Towels
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St. Bernards are notorious for their drooling, so grooming wipes or highly absorbent towels are must-haves for keeping them clean. Wipes can be used to quickly clean up drool and dirt after walks, while towels help manage their frequent slobbering at home.
Pet First Aid Kit
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Given their size and potential health issues, having a pet first aid kit on hand is important for every St. Bernard owner. It should include items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and a digital thermometer, along with breed-specific items such as a cold compress for overheating or pain relief ointment for joint discomfort.
Big Love, Big Needs
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By having these items in your home, you’ll ensure that your St. Bernard is comfortable, safe, and well-cared for. Their unique needs as a giant breed require a bit of extra planning, but the love and companionship they provide make it all worthwhile.
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