Saint Bernard: A Comprehensive Guide for Dog Lovers

BySavanna Read

History and Origin

The Saint Bernard is a large, powerful breed with a rich history dating back to the 11th century. Originally bred by monks at the Great St. Bernard Hospice in the Swiss Alps, these dogs were used to help rescue travelers lost in the treacherous mountain passes. The hospice, located at an altitude of 8,000 feet, was named after Bernard of Menthon, an Italian monk who founded the monastery in 1050.

The earliest Saint Bernards were smaller than the dogs we know today and were likely descendants of the Tibetan Mastiff and the Great Dane. Over time, the monks bred these dogs with larger Mastiff-type breeds to create a dog with the size, strength, and thick coat needed to withstand the harsh alpine conditions.

One of the most famous Saint Bernards in history was Barry, who lived in the early 1800s and is credited with saving over 40 lives during his lifetime as a rescue dog at the Great St. Bernard Hospice. Barry‘s taxidermied body is currently on display at the Natural History Museum in Bern, Switzerland.

Physical Characteristics

Saint Bernards are one of the largest dog breeds, with males standing up to 30 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 140 and 180 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, typically weighing between 120 and 140 pounds. Their massive size is matched by their powerful build, with a broad chest, muscular legs, and a large, heavy head.

One of the most distinctive features of the Saint Bernard is their massive head, which is proportionate to their body size. They have a short, powerful muzzle, a square jaw, and a pronounced stop between their forehead and nose. Their ears are medium-sized, hanging close to their head, and their eyes are dark and expressive, giving them a gentle, soulful appearance.

Saint Bernards come in two coat types: short-haired and long-haired. The short-haired variety has a dense, smooth coat, while the long-haired Saint Bernard has a longer, wavy coat with feathering on the legs and tail. Both types have a thick, double coat that protects them from cold weather, with common colors being red and white, brindle and white, or just plain white.

Another signature trait of the Saint Bernard is their drooling. Due to their loose lips and jowls, Saint Bernards are prone to excessive drooling, especially after eating, drinking, or during periods of excitement. As a Saint Bernard owner, it‘s essential to keep a "drool rag" handy at all times!

Temperament and Personality

Saint Bernards are known for their gentle, patient, and friendly demeanor, making them excellent family pets. They are incredibly loyal and protective of their loved ones, but their size and bark are usually enough to deter any potential threats, as they are not typically aggressive dogs.

Despite their size, Saint Bernards are sensitive souls who crave human companionship. They thrive on attention and affection from their family members and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. It‘s essential to provide them with plenty of interaction and mental stimulation to keep them happy and well-adjusted.

Saint Bernards are also known for their intelligence and eagerness to please, which can make them relatively easy to train. However, they can sometimes be stubborn, so patience and consistency are key when working with this breed. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as praise and treats, are most effective in encouraging good behavior.

Training and Socialization

Early training and socialization are crucial for Saint Bernards, as their large size can make them challenging to control if they haven‘t learned basic obedience. Puppy kindergarten classes and positive reinforcement training can help them learn important skills like sit, stay, and leash walking.

When training a Saint Bernard, it‘s essential to keep sessions short and engaging to maintain their interest. Use high-value treats and plenty of praise to encourage good behavior, and be patient and consistent in your approach. Saint Bernards can be sensitive to harsh corrections, so it‘s important to use positive, reward-based methods.

Socialization is equally important for Saint Bernards, as it helps them become well-adjusted, confident adult dogs. Expose them to a variety of people, animals, and environments from a young age, always ensuring the experiences are positive and non-threatening. Some ideas for socialization include:

  • Taking them to puppy playgroups or doggy daycare
  • Visiting dog-friendly stores, cafes, and parks
  • Inviting friends and family over to meet your puppy
  • Enrolling in obedience classes or other dog-related activities

Health and Lifespan

Like many large breeds, Saint Bernards are prone to certain health issues. Some of the most common health concerns include:

  • Hip and elbow dysplasia: A genetic condition that causes the joint to develop abnormally, leading to arthritis and lameness. According to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, about 45% of Saint Bernards tested have hip dysplasia.
  • Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) or bloat: A life-threatening condition in which the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. Studies have shown that large, deep-chested breeds like Saint Bernards are at a higher risk for developing GDV.
  • Eye problems: Saint Bernards can be prone to various eye issues, including entropion (inward-rolling eyelids), ectropion (outward-rolling eyelids), and cherry eye (prolapsed third eyelid gland).
  • Osteosarcoma: A type of bone cancer that is more common in large and giant breeds like Saint Bernards.

To help minimize the risk of these health issues, it‘s important to choose a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings on their breeding stock. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can also help keep your Saint Bernard in good health.

The average lifespan of a Saint Bernard is 8-10 years, which is typical for a large breed dog. However, with proper care and management, some Saint Bernards have been known to live up to 12 years or more.

Grooming and Care

Saint Bernards have moderate grooming needs, depending on their coat type. Short-haired Saint Bernards should be brushed weekly with a rubber curry brush or hound glove to remove loose hair and distribute natural oils. Long-haired Saint Bernards require more frequent brushing, about 2-3 times per week, with a slicker brush or pin brush to prevent tangles and mats.

Both coat types shed moderately year-round, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes. Regular brushing can help minimize shedding and keep their coat healthy and shiny. Saint Bernards also need occasional baths, nail trims, and ear cleanings to maintain their overall hygiene.

As mentioned earlier, Saint Bernards are known for their excessive drooling. To keep their face and mouth clean, it‘s a good idea to wipe their jowls and lips with a damp cloth or towel daily. Some owners even invest in special bibs or bandanas to catch the drool and keep their dog‘s chest and neck area dry.

Feeding and Nutrition

Saint Bernards have large appetites and require a high-quality diet to support their growth and development. Puppies should be fed a specially formulated large-breed puppy food to ensure they receive the proper balance of nutrients for their growing bodies. Adult Saint Bernards should be fed a high-quality, age-appropriate diet that meets their individual needs based on their activity level and health status.

It‘s important to monitor your Saint Bernard‘s weight and body condition to prevent obesity, which can exacerbate health issues like hip dysplasia and joint problems. Follow the feeding guidelines on your dog‘s food and adjust the amount as needed to maintain a healthy weight. Avoid free-feeding and limit treats to no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake.

Saint Bernards are also prone to bloat, so it‘s recommended to feed them smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day rather than one or two large meals. Raised food and water bowls can also help reduce the risk of bloat by preventing them from gulping too much air while eating or drinking.

Finding a Reputable Breeder

If you‘ve decided that a Saint Bernard is the right breed for you, it‘s essential to find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and welfare of their dogs. A responsible breeder will:

  • Conduct health screenings on their breeding stock, including hip and elbow evaluations, eye exams, and heart certifications
  • Provide written documentation of health clearances and genetic tests
  • Allow you to visit their facility and meet the puppies and their parents
  • Ask you questions about your lifestyle and experience with dogs to ensure their puppies are going to suitable homes
  • Provide a written contract outlining their responsibilities and yours, including a health guarantee and spay/neuter agreement

Avoid buying a puppy from a pet store, online retailer, or backyard breeder, as these sources may not prioritize the health and temperament of their dogs. Instead, seek out a reputable breeder through the Saint Bernard Club of America or other breed-specific organizations.

Fun Facts and Trivia

  1. The Saint Bernard is the national dog of Switzerland, where they originated in the Swiss Alps.
  2. In 2017, a Saint Bernard named Mochi set the Guinness World Record for the longest tongue on a dog, measuring 7.3 inches from tip to snout!
  3. The Saint Bernard has been the mascot of the Swiss tourism industry since the early 1900s, appearing on postcards, posters, and other promotional materials.
  4. In the 1883 novel "Heidi" by Swiss author Johanna Spyri, the main character‘s grandfather owns a Saint Bernard named Josef.
  5. The Saint Bernard has been featured in numerous movies and TV shows, including the classic "Beethoven" film series, "Cujo," "George of the Jungle," and "The Brady Bunch."

As a dog lover and veterinary expert, I can attest to the many wonderful qualities of the Saint Bernard breed. Their gentle nature, loyalty, and affectionate personality make them a joy to be around, and their impressive size and strength are truly awe-inspiring. While they may not be the right fit for every household, those who have the space, time, and dedication to care for a Saint Bernard will be rewarded with a loving and devoted companion for life.

By providing this comprehensive guide, I hope to help potential Saint Bernard owners make an informed decision about whether this breed is the right match for their lifestyle and family. With proper care, training, and attention, a Saint Bernard can bring immeasurable joy and love to your home for many years to come.

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