The Saint Bernard: Switzerland’s Lifesaver

The Saint Bernard Dog Breed in Brief:

Origin: Switzerland

Height: 26-30 inches at the shoulder

Weight: 120-140 pounds

Exercise Needs: Low

Grooming Needs: Moderate

Life Expectancy: 8-10 years

Good With Kids: Yes

Trainability: Medium

Many stories exist about the noble Saint Bernard and how he traveled through the Swiss Alps discovering stranded and buried individuals who had been caught in avalanches. They have had movies made about them, cartoons created in their likeness, and yet very little is known how the Saint Bernard came to be. Nevertheless, even while their past remains a mystery, these giant canines continue to captivate and enthrall as they have for centuries. Are you considering adopting a Saint Bernard into your family? Follow along with these helpful hints to see if a Saint Bernard is the right dog for you:

The History of the Saint Bernard

He was not always known as the Saint Bernard, nor did he look the way he does today. The Saint Bernard, like many breeds of dog today, has gone through a great many changes in order to reach the point where he is now. In fact, many believe that it was the ancient Romans who first had a hand in the creation of the Swiss Saint Bernard. Marching along with the ancient Roman armies was a large breed of Asian dog, known as the “Molosser.” It is believed that he crossed with native Swiss dogs during the various invasions.

The offspring of this unlikely cross were large and quickly put to work in the Alpine dairies and farms, where they were employed as guard dogs, herders, and often performed draft duties as well. They were known by one of two names at this time: the Talhund, meaning “Valley Dog,” or the Bauernhund, which meant “Farm Dog.” Since the Roman armies invaded as early as the first and second centuries A.D., the breed was well established within Switzerland by the time Archdeacon Bernard de Menthon founded the Hospice in the Swiss Alps, in 1050 A.D.

It’s believed that the Talhund and Bauernhund were first brought to the Hospice somewhere between 1660 and 1670, most likely to serve as watchdogs, as well as providing companionship for the Monks who inhabited this mountain sanctuary. During the winter months, the days seemed unbearably long and the Hospice was almost completely cut off from all of the outside world. With this isolation, the dogs that were taken into the Hospice were allowed to breed and then inbreed, eventually creating what would come to be known as the “Hospice Dog.” In time, this name would become the Saint Bernard, as he was named for the location of the Hospice - the Saint Bernard Pass between Switzerland and Italy.

Not only would the Saint Bernard prove to be a worthy companion animal for the Monks, but it was also discovered that these muscular dogs also possessed an uncanny ability to be able to discover paths in the snow and, with their incredible sense of smell, they were quite adept at finding people who had become lost during storms and avalanches. Before long, the Monks and their large dogs would be known throughout the world for their ability to save lives. In fact, during the 3 centuries that they have been used as rescue dogs, the Saint Bernard are documented as having saved more than 2,000 human lives. It’s no wonder why they are known as the life-saver dogs.

The Saint Bernard Appearance

Power is one of the first thoughts that enter the mind when one comes face to face with a Saint Bernard. Bred for sheer size, strength, and intelligence, these are massive dogs that have a very heavy and intimidating appearance. The draft-horses of the canine world, they commonly weigh between 120 to 180 pounds and stand anywhere from 26 to 30 inches tall at the shoulder.

The Saint Bernard comes in two varieties; the shorthair and the longhair. Both types are very similar, save for the fact that the longhaired Saint Bernard had a medium-length coat that is slightly wavy. His tail is bushy, as are his thighs, and he sports a slight feathering of hair along his forelegs. It is believed that these dogs were developed due to the fact that they were better able to handle the harsh winter weather, while a lot of the shorthaired Saint Bernard dogs did not fair as well. The Saint Bernard can be found in red and white, or white with red, though dark shading over the mask and ears are preferred.

The Saint Bernard Temperament

The Saint Bernard is a wonderful family dog and tends to be very laid back as a rule. While his sheer size and intimidating bark are enough to frighten away most ne’er-do-wells, this big and powerful dog is usually quite the loveable teddy bear. Quite placid, especially when compared to other large-breed dogs, he makes an excellent pet but a poor guard dog unless, of course, his family is threatened. If he feels the need to protect those he loves, he will do so courageously. It is, however, important to note that some of these dogs have been known to suffer from what is known as “rage syndrome.” Dominant or aggressive behavior can be found in any breed, but with dogs of this size, any sign of aggressive behavior should be discussed with your veterinarian immediately.

The Saint Bernard Exercise Needs

One common misconception about the Saint Bernard is that, because he’s such a large dog, he needs a lot of exercise. In truth, however, the Saint Bernard is actually a rather laid back and low maintenance pooch. A couple of good daily walks, each day, and he’s happy as a clam, just like any other dog. They also do well in small kennels or dog runs, where they can just roam a bit and stretch their legs from time to time.

Saint Bernard Grooming Requirements

The Saint Bernard commonly sheds his coat in the Spring and once again in the Fall. During the rest of the year, there is little hassle with shedding and a weekly brushing with a stiff bristled brush will help his coat looking sleek and shiny. They rarely require bathing other than once or twice a month and don’t tend to be overly messy dogs, save for some individuals having what is known as a “wet mouth.”

Particular care should be paid to the dog’s eyes and his ears when you groom him, checking for any sign of infection or dirt and debris. A Saint Bernard’s toenails also require regular trimming, same as any other dog. If started as a puppy, these grooming routines will be much easier to perform when your dog is an adult.

Training Your Saint Bernard

Due to the sheer size and mass of the Saint Bernard, it is essential that he be taught obedience lessons and the younger he can start these classes, the better. These dogs tend to grow quickly but mature slow and, before you know it, you may have a puppy that weighs more than a hundred pounds dragging you on a leash or trying to jump up on people. Teach them with patience, love, and do so at a young age. It will be much easier in the long run.

Saint Bernard Health Concerns

Like any breed of dog, the Saint Bernard is subject to a variety of health concerns, even more so due to his massive size. When looking into getting a puppy, ask to see the parents of the litter, as well as written documentation of veterinarian checks and a guarantee that, should you take the Saint Bernard puppy to your veterinarian and he finds a genetic problem, that said puppy can be brought back and your money refunded. Some of the health problems that can affect Saint Bernard dogs include:

• Subject to arthritis
• Hip dysplasia
• Bloat
• Congenital heart defects
• Skin conditions and “hot spots”
• Subject to rage syndrome

Is the Saint Bernard the Right Breed For You?

The Saint Bernard is a wonderful and noble animal but, while he is usually very placid and laid back, such a massive canine is not for everyone. While they will not “eat you out of house and home,” as many people commonly believe, they are still large dogs and can make for a crowded house if you don’t have ample room for these giants. Additionally, Saint Bernard dogs should be carefully supervised with children and other animals; even the kindest and gentlest of dogs can accidentally knock a child down by bumping them or may snap if his tail is pulled. Always supervise these dogs, no matter how capable they appear to be. Protecting your dog is sure to keep him happy and healthy, and that great plumed tail wagging for years to come!

Shawna L. Krautheim

2007