Animals that Start with G - Listed With Pictures, Facts
4-Month-Old St. Bernard's Massive Size Makes Her A True 'Big Baby'
There are puppies that fit in the palm of your hand... And then there are Saint Bernard puppies. Those pups are huge. They're practically the same size as other full sized dogs. Just take one woman on TikTok, who showed off her 4-month-old Saint Bernard puppy and had to use two arms to hoist it in the air.
It might seem hard to believe but Maggie Matthews' puppy will only get bigger as it ages.
Matthews other Saint Bernard, Hank, is a whopping 185 lbs. At his full height. So we have to imagine that Brandy will grow up to be big too.
Related: St. Bernard Boldly Steals Mom's Bowl of Cereal Like It's NBD
Responding to one commenter on her page, Matthews showed Brandy off in all her glory. She joked that she had to "lift with her legs" to pick the Saint Bernard up. It looked like she was struggling to just keep her in the air.
Matthews said she doesn't know exactly how much Brandy weighs at the moment, but one thing was clear — "She's just a baby," Matthews said. The cutest baby ever.
The pup had so many fans in the comments section. "The puppy belly??? Yes, please!!! It's just a shmoll babyyy!!!" wrote one person. "She is so cute she is just a babyyyyy," someone else added. "Dogs? Or mini bears," a third commenter joked. "She's gonna be as big as Clifford the Big Red Dog," one person teased.
There's a reason why Saint Bernards are known as gentle giants. In fact, Saint Bernards have been used to rescue people in the Alps because of their size and warm demeanor.
Not only do Saint Bernards start off large, these puppies will even grow faster than most dogs do in their entire lifetime. At one month most male Saint Bernards weigh anywhere from 10 to 25 lbs. In their second month they can weigh anywhere from 25 to 40 lbs. A 4-month-old like Brandy typically weighs 45 to 65 lbs. And by 9 months she'll probably weigh between 90 and 115 lbs.
Saint Bernards stop growing at around 2 years old, when they weigh between 120 and 180 lbs. Whereas most smaller dog breeds reach maturity and stop growing at around 9 to 12 months.
So if it feels like your St .Bernard puppy won't stop growing, it's probably because they haven't! They have a lot of growth to do in the first two years of life and are likely going to be quite large when they're adults. But that's sort of why we love them, right? They're like giant teddy bears that love to cuddle on the couch. Just make sure you don't skip arm day at the gym. Something tells us you gotta have a lot of upper body strength to handle Saint Bernards.
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18 Quiet Dogs That Don't Bark (Too Much)
Quiet Dog Breeds —18 Quiet Dogs That Don't BarkSkip to main content
juanma hache/Getty Images To bark or not to bark?Dogs: Even though we love them, we may not always love their barking. Whether you need a calm dog breed that won't bark at everything that moves or an apartment-friendly dog that won't wake up the neighbors, a quiet pup may be the best solution for you. Reader's Digest spoke to three dog training and behavior experts to identify quiet dog breeds that are less likely to bark up a storm every time the mailman comes. However, there is an important caveat. All dogs will bark from time to time, and even a breed known for being quieter may bark more than expected.
"Some breeds tend to bark more than others," explains dog breed expert Caroline Coile, PhD, author of Barron's Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds, "especially if barking was part of their original job." For example, herding dogs often use barking to get sheep or cattle to move, and trailing dogs like beagles barked so hunters knew where they were from a distance. "Of course," Coile adds, "terriers and some toy dogs just seem to like to bark because it makes them feel tough."
Even with quieter dog breeds, "There is no guarantee that a certain breed will not have nuisance barking concerns," says dog behavior consultant Megan Stanley, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, owner of Dogma Training and Pet Services. "Barking is best prevented through positive training, adequate physical and mental exercise, and ensuring the dog's overall well-being." If you're willing to put in the work, these quiet dog breeds tend to bark less than others.
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About the expertsReviewed for accuracy by: Caroline Coile, PhD, an award winning journalist specializing in canine breeds, health and science. She's the author of 34 books, including Barron's Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds.
BasenjiThe basenji is a small to medium-size dog breed known as the "barkless dog," probably due to the unusual shape of their larynx, which may make it virtually impossible to bark. But they communicate in other ways—namely, by yodeling and chortling.
"These sounds are affectionately referred to as the 'basenji yodel,'" says Stanley. Don't worry, they probably won't be yodeling nonstop from the heights of your sofa. But Stanley says this quiet dog breed is smart and energetic and will need positive training and adequate exercise to be a happy companion.
Also, explore the world of these magnificent large dog breeds renowned for their suitability as wonderful family companions.
Jim Craigmyle/Getty Images Great DaneWe're not gonna lie, this gentle giant is huge (males weigh up to 200 pounds), and when it does bark, it's loud and deep, but that doesn't happen very often.
"They tend to have a calm nature, which means they don't bark often," says Stanley. "Great Danes are bred to be people-pleasers, so they are great family dogs that are easy to train."
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Everita Pane/Shutterstock Bernese mountain dogBernese mountain dogs are calm, good-natured and strong. They're known for being among the dogs that don't bark and are very placid.
However, they're also always ready to play or go on a long walk with their owner. They love to please people and are particularly good with children, which makes them a great addition to a family looking for a quiet but loving pet.
NewfoundlandIt's hard to fathom this large breed sitting on your lap, but Stanley says this quiet dog breed is known for its inclination to be a lapdog—that is, if there isn't a body of water nearby. They are top-notch swimmers and well suited in rescue efforts. Because of their quiet nature, they don't bark much, a welcome trait if you already have a house with noisy kids.
"They tend to do well with children, so have earned the name 'nanny dog,"' says Stanley, making them one of the best dogs for families.
Kim Christensen/Shutterstock Scottish deerhoundThe Scottish deerhound has similar ancestors to the greyhound. But one major difference between greyhounds and deerhounds is that the deerhound has a coat of coarse hair, giving it a distinctive appearance.
The Scottish deerhound is also known for being gentle, dignified and polite. This makes deerhounds quiet dogs that would be a good fit for anyone looking for a well-behaved breed.
Runa Kazakova/Shutterstock Bulldogs and French bulldogsHere's a two-for-one: bulldogs and French bulldogs. Both of these quiet dog breeds are playful, with a gentle disposition and irresistibly cute, wrinkly cheeks you could squeeze for days. Frenchies are among the small dogs that are quiet; for a larger version, check out the bulldog.
"They are known to love their naps and time spent on the sofa, and they tend to be less of a barking breed, which adds to their appeal," says Stanley. Cue up Netflix, because you just found a binge-watching companion. One warning: They may not bark much, but they often snore, wheeze and snort. Frenchies also tend to make a lot of soft chortles and other noises.
Sue Thatcher/Getty Images Chinese shar peiThis breed is known for its irresistible wrinkly faces, but they're also among the list of dogs that seldom bark. They're very calm and collected around their family, but when they meet strangers they can be a little standoffish.
It's important to socialize them when they're young, to help them become well-adjusted adults. Remember, this is a good rule of thumb for any dog breed if you want to reduce the chance of problematic barking behavior.
Irish setterThere's no mistaking this breed for another when you see it. The elegant features of long feathery ears, plumed tail and trademark burnished red coat are dead giveaways.
"These are active and intelligent dogs known for being outgoing and cheerful," says Stanley. "They require proper physical and mental exercise, as they are an energetic and rambunctious breed." We know what you're thinking, but rambunctious doesn't mean prone to barking. As long as they get enough exercise, nuisance barking is minimal.
Cavalier King Charles spanielThe Cavalier King Charles spaniel is another one of the small, quiet dogs that bark sparingly (and they're also great dogs for seniors). Their sweet faces, big brown eyes and fluffy ears are hard to resist, which is good, because the CKCS loves to be around people, a lot. It doesn't matter if you prefer afternoons on the sofa or outside on the trail—they want to be with you. But that can be a problem if they feel lonely.
"They do love their people, which can cause separation concerns, which tends to be one of the few times barking is a concern with this adorable breed," says Stanley.
Lourdes Balduque/Getty Images GreyhoundThe greyhound and other members of the sighthound family—that is, hounds that overtake their quarry by speed—rarely bark when hunting, and all members of this family tend to be quiet.
"Surprisingly, they do well for apartment dwellers, as they are fairly inactive indoors. They are gentle and independent dogs who have a sweet temperament," says Stanley. And even when they do play and chase toys inside, they are virtually noiseless and don't bark much.
juanma hache/Getty Images Shiba InuThe Shiba Inu is a Spitz dog breed native to Japan. "Bred originally for hunting, these dogs are quick and intelligent but reserved with strangers. However, they are fiercely loyal once they do bond with a human," says dog trainer and animal behaviorist Donna Culbert, CPDT-KA, former canine coordinator at Scituate Animal Shelter.
They are generally independent and aren't particularly needy, so they don't tend to be underfoot or to bark just because they're not with you. But you may hear a high-pitched shrieking sound when they are pumped up or upset.
Bigandt_Photography/Getty Images Coton de TulearWith its white, soft-as-cotton coat, you can see why these small quiet dogs were bred specially for the laps of royalty. But don't let that image fool you. They are very entertaining with their comical shenanigans but still reasonably quiet.
However, they may get vocal if they feel left out. "They do not like to be left alone for long, so owners need to be prepared to keep them close," says Culbert.
everydoghasastory/Shutterstock Rhodesian ridgebackYou can identify a Rhodesian ridgeback by the stripe of hair growing backward on its spine. Another feature they have is that they are among the list of calm dog breeds.
They were bred as all-purpose farm dogs in Africa, but they're most well-known for hunting lions and holding them at bay until the hunter caught up. They still have a very strong prey drive and are very independent. While they may be a quiet dog breed, make sure you're prepared to handle them chasing animals.
Grisha Bruev/Shutterstock Saint BernardOriginally from Switzerland, the affectionate and loyal Saint Bernard is known for its growth from puppy to full size quickly. Their droopy lips produce more drooling than barking, and they tend to be serious and protective of their family.
"In general, they are on the quiet side, barking to alert the group to an intruder, or possibly to demand attention from a family member," says Jim Lessenberry, animal behaviorist at Animal Learning Systems.
Maja Marjanovic/Shutterstock Chow Chow"It is speculated that these breeds were selectively bred for characteristics including calm demeanor, independence, suspicious nature and a generally quiet disposition," says Lessenberry, a fitting description for dogs that once guarded monasteries and palaces. Sigmund Freud was so taken with the Chow Chow chill factor that he had one sit in on his appointments.
But if a stranger confronts a Chow Chow, you'll hear about it, Lessenberry says. "It's a loud, sustained alert, and defensive barking is to be expected."
Alaskan malamuteThe Alaskan malamute is another ancient breed, or "basal" breed, meaning that their origins predate domestic dogs—and there's a good reason these types of dogs are often a quiet dog breed. "Dogs that predated domestication would have been at a disadvantage had they been yappy barkers, in that the trait would have alerted the hunted, as well as the hunters. They would be more likely to be eaten than eat!" says Lessenberry.
Malamutes are great family dogs, but maybe not with young children or other small animals. "Those old genes can make them a predatory risk for small animals and young children," warns Lessenberry.
Anastasiia Cherniavskaia/Shutterstock BorzoiAccording to the American Kennel Club, the borzoi is known for its "calm, agreeable temperament." Like the greyhound and Scottish deerhound, the borzoi is a member of the sighthound family, all of which tend to chase down their prey by sight while remaining quiet. The sighthounds tend to be slender and regal, and the tall, graceful borzoi could be a model. This fleet, affectionate breed can run almost 35 miles per hour and tends to be quiet unless there's a good reason to bark.
Waldek Dąbrowski/Getty Images Mastiff"Mastiff" refers to both a breed and a family of breeds that includes the bullmastiff, Neapolitan mastiff, Tibetan mastiff, Great Dane, rottweiler and boxer. These powerful, muscular breeds were often used as big-game hunters or guardians and are serious by nature. You can't be a goof-off when you're on guard duty or hunting large game, and since they don't need to scare off intruders by barking, they tend to be silent when on duty.
"Mastiffs tend to be on the quiet side, so barking is cause for attention on the owner's part," says Lessenberry. "Mastiffs are not for everyone and generally not a breed for first-time dog owners."
Why trust usAt Reader's Digest, we're committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. For this piece, Lisa Marie Conklin tapped her experience covering pet behavior and training, and then Caroline Coile, PhD, an award-winning journalist specializing in canine breeds, health and science, gave it a rigorous review to ensure that all information is accurate and offers the best possible advice to readers. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.
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New Kitten 'Not Scared' Of Saint Bernard Despite Being 70 Times Smaller
Introducing a new pet into the family can be nerve wracking—especially when you own a big dog like this owner who recently brought home a kitten.
However, they were pleasantly surprised to see how the tiny feline wasn't phased by the Saint Bernard dog who is about 70 times bigger.
The black and white kitten appears to be prepared for a fight as soon as it steps out of the carrier in the video that @bigpawspaco posted. The fearless feline is shown in the following clips jumping on Paco, the dog, and attacking him while he's at his most vulnerable—that is, while he's eating.
At the time of writing, the clip captioned: "New kitty's not scared by the big guy," has amassed 2.9 million views since it was shared on March 3.
It is unclear how old the kitten is but according to Cat's Protection, a U.K. Based charity, they can go to their new homes at eight weeks old. They usually weigh just under 2lbs at this age.
In the comments, the owner has explained that Paco is eight months old so still has lots of growing to do. The breed can weigh 140 to 180 pounds when they reach adulthood, according to the American Kennel Club. This means the kitten is at least 70 times smaller than Paco.
However, it looks like size doesn't matter in this case as the kitten stepped out with all guns blazing. In the comments, the owner explained that their face to face meet was a gradual process.
The owner wrote: "[On week two] we let the cat out in the house when the dog was outside playing so he could know the place and find places where he could hide if the dog was to intense." Followed by: "Week 3 we began to open the crate only when the dog was super calm and laid down. After that we told ourselves, let's do it, and manage the best we can, turns out great!"
A Newsweek illustration showing a black and white kitten—like the one in the video—with love hearts and the same breed as Paco. A Newsweek illustration showing a black and white kitten—like the one in the video—with love hearts and the same breed as Paco. Photo/illustration by Newsweek/GettyPreviously, Newsweek spoke to an expert to find out how to introduce these two pets. It turns out, Paco's owner was doing the right thing as the animals cannot be rushed into anything that may make them uncomfortable or scared.
Marny Nofi, senior manager on the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Behavioral Sciences Team, told Newsweek: "Taking things slow will help to avoid a bad first impression. Some cats will be quite confident around dogs; others will need to adjust to their new housemates more slowly."
So far, the video has over 323,000 likes and more than 1,050 comments.
"Tuxedos are something else. No fear because they know they're the best dressed in the room," said one user.
"Little man was about to throw hands with the cat carrier in the beginning," laughed another.
A third commenter said: "That's a family in the making. They're already siblings."
Newsweek reached out to @bigpawspaco for comment. We could not verify the details of the case.
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Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
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