The Saint Bernard is a giant working breed from the western Alps. Originally bred for rescue work by the hospice of the Great St. Bernard Pass on the Italian-Swiss border, today's Saint Bernard is a gentle and loving family companion known for its patience and protective nature.
Origin
Switzerland
Life Span
8–10 years
Weight
54–82 kg
Height
65–70 cm
Exercise
low
Shedding
high
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
The Saint Bernard originated in the Swiss Alps at the Great St. Bernard Pass, where a monastery and hospice were established by monks around 1050. The monks kept large dogs for protection and companionship, which eventually became used for rescue work in the treacherous mountain pass. These early Saint Bernards were smaller than today's breed and likely descended from mastiff-type dogs from the Roman empire. They were trained to find travelers buried in snow, revive them with licks and body warmth, and lead them to safety. One famous Saint Bernard named Barry reportedly saved more than 40 lives during his lifetime. The modern Saint Bernard developed in the 19th century when the original monastery dogs were crossbred with other large breeds, resulting in the larger, heavier dogs we know today.
The Saint Bernard is named after the Great St. Bernard Hospice, founded by Bernard of Menthon in the 11th century.
Contrary to popular imagery, Saint Bernards never carried brandy barrels around their necks. This myth was created by an artist named Edwin Landseer in a painting from 1820.
A Saint Bernard named Benedictine holds the record for the heaviest dog tongue ever, measuring 7.31 inches.
The breed's incredible sense of smell and directional skills helped them locate travelers buried in snow during avalanches.
Barry, the most famous rescue Saint Bernard, saved between 40-100 lives in the Swiss Alps. There is a monument to him in the Cimetière des Chiens in Paris.
Purchase Price
1000–3000 USD
Monthly Cost
~$200 USD
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