St. Bernard

Saint Bernard Breed Information



Breed Name:	St. Bernard (aka Alpine Mastiff, Bernhardiner)

Country of Origin:	Switzerland

Average Lifespan:	8 - 10 years

Size:	Large (130–240 lbs, 28–35 inches)

Breed Classification:	Working

Coat:	There are two types of coats: smooth coated or rough coated Dense and fairly short Colour can be white with reddish-brown markings, or reddish brown with white markings

Characteristics:	Friendly and caring Gentle and good with children Loyal and obedient

Breed Standards:	The St. Bernard is a very large, strong and muscular breed, with a powerful back, shoulders and legs. The head is massive and sturdy, with floppy, triangular ears. The chest is well arched, and moderately deep.

History:	The origins of the St. Bernard date back to 17^th century Switzerland. They were bred as working dogs, and to be companions for the Swiss monks. St. Bernard’s were also used for search and rescue missions in the Swiss Alps, and remain a popular breed for rescue missions to this day. The dogs are incredibly strong and would use their keen sense of smell and large bodies to locate and pull avalanche victims to safety. The origin of the breed name is uncertain, but one possibility is that it was derived from the St. Bernard Pass in the Western Alps between Switzerland and Italy, where the breed has performed countless rescue missions. The Hospice Grand St. Bernard is also where the Swiss monks originally bred the dog. The St. Bernard is often depicted wearing a barrel of brandy around its neck. The origins of this typecast come from an early, famous painting of a St. Bernard. However, the real rescue dogs no not carry these barrels around their necks.

Fun Facts:	St. Bernard’s can be mistakenly viewed as aggressive dogs due to their size, and films which depict them as vicious animals, such as Stephen King’s Cujo. St. Bernard’s are in fact very docile, loving dogs and perfect as a family pet. The breed is more accurately portrayed as the character Beethoven in the children’s movie of the same name, and as Nana, the babysitting dog, in the film versions of Peter Pan.

Recommendations:	In keeping with the St. Bernard's history and size, a strong leather dog collar is an excellent choice.