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A red and white Saint Bernard puppy sleeps on a knit blanket beside a crackling fireplace with dishes behind. 7 / 20

A Saint Bernard Puppy Crashed by the Fire as Dinner Wound Down

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A Saint Bernard puppy has collapsed onto a chunky knit blanket in front of the fire, chin resting on his big paws and eyes closed. His brown-and-white coat is soft as velvet, and behind him a stone fireplace crackles with a warm orange glow. On the table nearby, dishes of leftover stuffing, small pumpkins and napkins wait in the late-day light.

Saint Bernard puppies grow into some of the largest dogs there are, so they are all big paws and floppy energy at first. They are usually gentle, patient and affectionate, and they like being near their family. Because they grow fast, puppies of giant breeds need proper nutrition and gentle exercise, and your vet can guide you on diet and growth.

A fireplace is cozy, but it needs a safe setup. Use a sturdy screen so a puppy cannot get too close to sparks or heat, and keep him away from the hearth tools and ash. Check that his blanket is not too near the fire, and make sure he has water and a cool spot to move to. Thick-coated breeds can overheat easily.

For the moment, he is warm, full of dreams and sound asleep. The family can chat in the next room, because nothing will wake this very large baby. If the fire dims, the blanket and his thick coat will keep him warm enough until morning.

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