Information About Saint Bernards

Origins

• The origin of the Saint Bernard is shrouded in legend and folklore, but according to the AKC's "Complete Dog Book," the Saint Bernard probably "developed from stock that resulted from the breeding of [the] Asian Molosser" with local dogs. The Asian Molosser was brought to Switzerland by invading Roman armies of the first and second centuries A.D.

History

• The Saint Bernard, originally used as a working dog, is believed to have been fully established in the early 11th century. These dogs were widely used on farms and Alpine dairies for guarding, herding and drafting. Sometime between 1660-1670, the dog got its name, from Archdeacon Bernard de Menthon, who founded a famous stop-over in the Swiss Alps to offer hospice and refuge to weary travelers. He brought along a strong and hearty dog to aid in the rescue of travelers lost in the treacherous crossings between Switzerland and Italy. The monks who manned the hospice soon learned that Saint Bernards did not need much training to perform these duties.

Physical Characteristics

• The Saint Bernard comes in two types: long haired and short haired. Besides the hair differential, the two types are identical. The breed is powerful and possesses tremendous stamina. The Saint Bernard's head is large and imposing with a short muzzle, black nose and lips. The ears are medium sized, flapped and hang 5-6 inches when the dog is full grown.

  The Saint Bernard's body is full and muscular, with broad shoulders and a slightly sloped back. Their legs are strong and straight and their feet are powerful and equipped with gripping toes. The coat of this dog is dense, red and white, and is darker around the face and eyes. The Saint Bernard's size ranges from 25-27.5 inches at the shoulder; they weigh between 110-200 pounds. Saint Bernards live an average of 9 years.

Temperment

• Saint Bernards are gentle and friendly and very good around children. They are patient, obedient, loyal, and eager to please. This dog is highly intelligent and tractable, but training should begin early, while the dog still small. The Saint Bernard is an excellent watchdog and according to the AKC's "Complete Dog Book," possesses an instinctual sense about impending danger.

Health

• These dogs can live in any environment as long as they are exercised daily. Long walks should be part of their regular routine, regardless of their living conditions, to keep them happy, healthy and mentally stimulated.

  Saint Bernards are prone to heart problems, skin diseases, hip dysplasia, over heating, tumors and extropion (a folding of the eyelid, usually on the bottom). They also are highly susceptible to bloat, so it is better to feed them two or three small portions of food per day instead of a single large meal. This breed drools excessively.