 The Saint Bernard is one of the largest and heaviest breeds in the world. It descended from the Tibetan Mastiff and was probably created from a cross between the mastiffs and Great Danes and Great Pyrenees. During the 17th century monks used Saint Bernards as rescue dogs in the Alps, where more than 2000 people were reportedly saved in avalanches. Ironically, an avalanche killed many of the original dogs used for breeding and as a result, modern Saint Bernards don't look anything like their Swiss ancestors. Remaining Saint Bernards were bred with other dogs to increase their numbers and in the process, lost much of their use as rescue dogs. Today they are known as gentle giants and are kept mainly as companion dogs and pets.
|
| Height: |
25.5 - 27.5 inches |
| Weight: |
110 - 200 pounds |
| Temperament: |
The Saint Bernard is a very gentle, friendly loving dog. It is very loyal and wants to please. The Saint Bernard, with its massive size, is slow moving and should be socialized at a young age around young people. Otherwise, it forgets its huge size and could be inadvertently dangerous around even strong adults. Although it is friendly and obedient, the Saint Bernard makes a great watchdog simply because its size can be intimidating. Prone to anxiety if left alone and like most dogs, can become destructive. Some dogs have demonstrated a sort of sixth sense about impending danger, possibly because of the breed's early use during avalanches. |
| Color(s): |
White with markings in varying colors, including tan, red, brindle, mahogany and black. |
| Grooming: |
Easy to groom with a firm brush or comb. Bathe only when necessary with a mild soap. Harsh soaps could strip the Saint Bernard's coat of its oily, water-protective properties. |
| Coat(s): |
Saint Bernards can have two types of coats. Some have a smooth coat, which was most seen in mountain rescue dogs. In the 1830s, monks introduced the Newfoundland to the breed and a rough coat variety developed. However, the rougher coat was unsuitable for mountain work because it tended to collect icicles. |
| With
Children: |
Extremely tolerant and fond of children. Should not be left unsupervised around small children, however, because of their size. |
| With
Pets: |
Tolerant with other animals and is a good family dog. |
| Training: |
The Saint Bernard is highly intelligent and easy to train. Because a large, unruly dog is hard to manage even for a strong adult, training should begin early while the dog is still a manageable size. If the dog is going to be walked or exercised in public, it should learn early who is in control and should be kept on a leash. |
| Exercise: |
Long walks each day will keep the Saint Bernard in good shape. Puppies should not receive too much exercise until they are about two years old, when their bones are strong and well-developed. |
| Health
Issues: |
Prone to eye disorders, hip dysplasia. Osteosarcoma has been found to be hereditary in the breed. |
| Housing: |
Can tolerate apartment living as long as it receives enough exercise. Saint Bernards can live outdoors but prefer to be with the family. A small yard is sufficient. They are fairly inactive indoors. |
| Life
Span: |
8 - 10 years |
| Country
of Origin: |
Switzerland |
| Conformation
Group: |
Working, Mastiff |
