A Complete Guide to Saint Bernard: History, Characteristics, and Care

Brief Overview of Saint Bernard

The Saint Bernard is a giant dog breed that hails from the Swiss Alps, known for its impressive size, gentle temperament, and heroic history as a rescue dog. These gentle giants have a friendly disposition and a calm nature, making them wonderful companions for families and individuals alike. They are easily recognizable with their large build, expressive eyes, and iconic white and reddish-brown coat.

Why Saint Bernards Make a Great Pet

Saint Bernards are famously loyal and affectionate, making them ideal family pets. Their calm and patient demeanor makes them great with children, and their protective nature ensures they are excellent watchdogs. Despite their size, they are known for being incredibly gentle and are happy to lounge around the house, though they also enjoy outdoor activities.

Saint Bernard Statistics:

Dog breed group: Working Group

Height: 26-30 inches (66-76 cm) at the shoulder

Weight: 120-180 pounds (54-82 kg)

Life Expectancy: 8-10 years

Saint Bernard Quick Facts:

Coat: Dense, short, or long with a slight wave

Club Recognition: AKC, UKC, FCI

Ideal Owner: Families, individuals with space, those looking for a calm and loyal companion

Energy Level/Exercise Needs: Moderate; enjoys regular walks and playtime

Space Requirements: Needs ample space; better suited for homes with large yards

Grooming Requirements: Moderate; regular brushing and occasional baths

Training: Intelligent and trainable but can be stubborn

Are they good family dogs? Yes, very good with children and families

Tendency to bark: Low; generally quiet but will alert to strangers

History and Origins

Saint Bernards originated in the Swiss Alps and the northern Italian Alps, where they were bred by monks at the Saint Bernard Hospice for rescue missions in the treacherous Alpine passes. The breed’s history dates back to the 11th century, but it was during the 17th and 18th centuries that they became famous for their lifesaving abilities.

Key Milestones in the Breed’s Development

11th Century: Initial development by monks at the Saint Bernard Hospice.
17th Century: Recognition for their rescue work in the Swiss Alps.
19th Century: Introduction to England and America, where they gained popularity as family pets.
1885: Official recognition by the American Kennel Club (AKC).

Physical Characteristics

Size and Weight:

Saint Bernards are one of the largest dog breeds. Males typically weigh between 140-180 pounds (64-82 kg), while females weigh between 120-140 pounds (54-64 kg).

Coat Type and Colors:

Their coat can be short or long and is dense and weather-resistant. Common colors include white with red, orange, brindle, or mahogany markings.

Facial Features:

Saint Bernards have a massive head with a broad skull, expressive dark eyes, and a distinct black mask around their muzzle.

Unique Physical Traits:

Size: Their immense size and muscular build are their most defining features.
Ears: Medium-sized, hanging close to the head.
Tail: Long and bushy, carried low.

Temperament and Personality

Saint Bernard’s Temperament:

Saint Bernards are known for their gentle, calm, and friendly nature. They are very loyal and affectionate with their families and are particularly good with children.

Behavioral Characteristics:

Barking Tendency: Low; they bark to alert but are not excessive barkers.
Suitability as a Family Pet: Excellent, very loving and protective.
Compatibility with Other Dogs: Generally good, but socialization is important.
Compatibility with Cats: Can be good if introduced properly.
Tolerance for Solitude: Moderate; they prefer company but can handle being alone for short periods.
Adaptability to Hot/Cold Weather: Good in cold weather; needs protection in hot climates.

Trainability

Ease of Training:

Saint Bernards are intelligent but can be stubborn. They respond best to positive reinforcement and consistent training.

Intelligence:

Highly intelligent and capable of learning a variety of commands and tricks.

Potential for Mouthiness:

Moderate; like most dogs, they explore with their mouths but are generally gentle.

Prey Drive:

Low; bred as rescue dogs, they do not have a strong prey drive.

Tendency to Bark or Howl:

Low; primarily bark to alert.

Wanderlust Potential:

Low; they are more likely to stay close to their family.

Health and Care

Common Health Issues

Hip Dysplasia:

A common issue in large breeds, causing discomfort and mobility issues. Regular vet check-ups and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage this condition.

Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus):

A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists, requiring immediate veterinary attention. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding vigorous exercise after eating can help prevent this.

Heart Disease:

Dilated cardiomyopathy is a common heart condition in Saint Bernards. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy diet are important.

Bone and Joint Problems:

Due to their size, they are prone to arthritis and other joint issues. Providing a soft, supportive bed and regular, gentle exercise can help.

Grooming Requirements

Amount of Shedding: Moderate to high; regular brushing helps control shedding.
Drooling Potential: High; they are known for their drooling, especially after eating or drinking.
Ease of Grooming: Moderate; their coat requires regular brushing and occasional baths.

Exercise and Activity Needs

Energy Level: Moderate.
Intensity: Enjoys regular, moderate exercise.
Exercise Needs: Daily walks and playtime are essential.
Potential for Playfulness: High; they enjoy playtime but also appreciate lounging.

Nutrition and Diet Tips

Best Feeding Schedule: 2-3 meals per day to avoid bloat.
Potential for Weight Gain: High; monitor diet and exercise to prevent obesity.

Lifespan

Saint Bernards have a relatively short lifespan of 8-10 years, typical for large breeds.

Living with Saint Bernards

Finding a Saint Bernard Puppy:

Seek reputable breeders who prioritize health and temperament. Rescue organizations are also an option.

Preparing Your Home:

Ensure you have ample space, a comfortable sleeping area, and secure fencing.

Saint Bernard Behavior in the Home:

Generally calm and well-behaved indoors; they appreciate a cozy spot to relax.

Exercise and Playtime:

Daily exercise is important to maintain health and happiness. They enjoy walks, playtime, and even some structured activities like agility.

Training and Obedience:

Start training early with positive reinforcement techniques. Consistency is key.

Socialization:

Expose them to various people, environments, and other animals from a young age to ensure they are well-rounded adults.

Famous Saint Bernard Owners

Stephen King: The famous author has owned several Saint Bernards, including one named Cujo, which inspired his novel of the same name.
Peter Mayhew: The actor known for playing Chewbacca in Star Wars had a Saint Bernard.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do Saint Bernards need a lot of space?

Yes, due to their size, they require ample space to move around comfortably.

Are Saint Bernards good with children?

Absolutely, they are known for their gentle and patient nature with kids.

How much exercise does a Saint Bernard need?

They need regular, moderate exercise. Daily walks and playtime are sufficient.

Are Saint Bernards prone to any health issues?

Yes, they are prone to hip dysplasia, bloat, and heart disease among other conditions.

Additional Resources

Links to breed-specific clubs, organizations, and websites

Saint Bernard Club of America: www.saintbernardclub.org
American Kennel Club (AKC): www.akc.org
Saint Bernard Rescue Foundation, Inc.: www.saintrescue.org