Crossbreeding is a common practice among dog enthusiasts looking to create unique and special companions. One such crossbreed that has been gaining popularity in recent years is the Saint Bernard crossed with the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, affectionately known as the Saint Tollernard. This unique mix combines the gentle and massive Saint Bernard with the energetic and intelligent Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, resulting in a beautiful and well-rounded dog that is suitable for a variety of lifestyles.
The Saint Bernard has a long and storied history as a rescue dog in the Swiss Alps. Originally bred for search and rescue work, these massive dogs have a gentle and kind demeanor, making them excellent family pets. On the other hand, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, also known as the Toller, is a hunting dog bred for luring and retrieving waterfowl. They are an energetic and intelligent breed known for their striking red coats.
The Saint Tollernard likely originated in the past 10 to 20 years, as breeders began to experiment with crossing these two breeds to create a dog that combined the best traits of both. While the Saint Bernard and Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever are very different breeds in terms of size and purpose, their temperaments complement each other well, resulting in a crossbreed that is both gentle and energetic.
The Saint Tollernard is a large dog, typically weighing between 60 to 100 pounds and standing around 23 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a sturdy build with a broad chest and muscular legs, similar to the Saint Bernard. Their coat is usually medium to long in length and may come in a variety of colors, including red, white, black, and tan. They often have a dense undercoat to protect them from cold weather, making them well-suited for colder climates.
One of the most striking features of the Saint Tollernard is their expressive eyes, which are typically dark and soulful, reflecting their gentle and loyal nature. Their ears are medium-sized and may be floppy or erect, depending on the genes they inherit from their parents. Overall, the Saint Tollernard is a beautiful and impressive-looking dog that turns heads wherever they go.
The Saint Tollernard is known for being a gentle giant, just like their Saint Bernard parent. They are typically affectionate and loyal dogs that are great with children and other pets. They have a calm and patient demeanor, making them excellent family pets that are well-suited for households with children. However, they are also energetic and intelligent dogs that require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Due to their hunting instincts inherited from their Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever parent, the Saint Tollernard may have a tendency to chase small animals or birds. Early socialization and training are essential to ensure that they are well-behaved and obedient companions. They are eager to please and quick learners, making them relatively easy to train compared to some other breeds.
The Saint Tollernard requires regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy. They enjoy long walks, runs, and play sessions in a securely fenced yard. They are also great candidates for dog sports such as agility, obedience, and tracking, which provide mental stimulation and physical exercise. Due to their size and energy level, they are not well-suited for apartment living and do best in a home with a large yard or access to outdoor space.
In terms of grooming, the Saint Tollernard has a moderate shedding coat that requires regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles. They may need to be brushed several times a week, especially during shedding season. Their ears should be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent infections, and their nails should be trimmed as needed to prevent overgrowth. Overall, the Saint Tollernard is a relatively low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming.
As with any dog breed, the Saint Tollernard may be prone to certain health issues inherited from their parent breeds. Some potential health concerns to be aware of include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat, heart problems, and eye issues. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy diet are essential to ensure that your Saint Tollernard stays healthy and happy for years to come.
Overall, the Saint Tollernard is a unique and special crossbreed that combines the best traits of the Saint Bernard and Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever. They are gentle and loyal companions that make excellent family pets for those who have the time and space to meet their exercise and grooming needs. With proper socialization, training, and care, the Saint Tollernard can be a wonderful addition to any household.
Whether you are drawn to their striking appearance, gentle temperament, or energetic personality, the Saint Tollernard is sure to capture your heart and provide years of love and companionship.