Among the ranks of loyal and protective Behind the Breed: Saint Bernards stands as a giant both in stature and spirit. Known for their imposing size, gentle nature, and iconic rescue efforts, Saint Bernards have earned their place in the hearts of dog lovers around the world. But what lies beneath that famous exterior? In this article, we’ll dive into the fascinating history, unique characteristics, and important considerations that come with owning and understanding the Saint Bernard breed.
The Origin of the Saint Bernard: A History of Heroism
The history of the Saint Bernard is as captivating as the breed itself. Hailing from the Swiss Alps, Saint Bernards were bred by monks at the Hospice of Saint Bernard, a refuge for travelers crossing the treacherous Alpine pass between Switzerland and Italy. Established in the 11th century by Saint Bernard of Menthon, the hospice became a sanctuary for weary travelers, many of whom found themselves caught in dangerous snowstorms and avalanches.
In the 17th century, the monks began breeding large, powerful dogs to assist them in their search-and-rescue missions. These dogs, ancestors of the modern Saint Bernard, were originally bred from local Alpine mastiffs, and their primary function was to locate and rescue lost travelers. With their powerful sense of smell, impressive strength, and thick coat to withstand freezing temperatures, these dogs became legendary for their life-saving abilities.
One of the most famous Saint Bernards was Barry, a rescue dog who reportedly saved over 40 lives during his time at the hospice in the early 1800s. His heroism cemented the breed’s reputation as life-saving companions, and Barry’s legacy continues to inspire admiration for the breed today. Statues, books, and films have been dedicated to this heroic breed, and their noble work in the Alps remains a cornerstone of their identity.
Physical Characteristics: Giants with Gentle Souls
The Saint Bernard is unmistakable in appearance. Their sheer size is often the first thing people notice, and with good reason: Saint Bernards are one of the largest dog breeds in the world. Males typically weigh between 140 and 180 pounds, and can stand 28 to 30 inches tall at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller but still formidable.
Despite their size, Saint Bernards are known for their gentle and affectionate demeanor. They possess a broad, powerful head with expressive eyes that convey warmth and intelligence. Their thick, water-resistant double coat is designed to withstand cold, harsh climates, and comes in two varieties: smooth and rough. The rough coat is longer and shaggier, while the smooth coat is shorter and more manageable, but both require regular grooming to prevent matting and to keep the dog’s coat healthy.
In addition to their size, Saint Bernards are known for their signature barrel-shaped collar, often depicted in artwork and popular media. While the notion of them carrying barrels of brandy to revive stranded travelers is more myth than reality, the image has become an iconic symbol of the breed’s historical role as a rescue dog.
Personality and Temperament: Loyal, Protective, and Gentle Giants
Saint Bernards are known for their combination of strength, loyalty, and gentleness. Despite their imposing size, they are often described as “gentle giants” because of their calm, patient nature. They are affectionate and love to be around people, making them excellent family dogs. However, their loyalty comes with a natural protectiveness, and they are known to be watchful over their loved ones.
Loyal Companions
One of the most prominent traits of the Saint Bernard is their unwavering loyalty. They are devoted to their families and often form strong bonds with their human companions. Saint Bernards are happiest when they are with their people, whether it’s lounging on the couch or accompanying them on outdoor adventures. This loyalty, combined with their protective instincts, makes them excellent watchdogs, though they are more likely to greet a stranger with curiosity than aggression.
Protective Instincts
While Saint Bernards are generally friendly and approachable, they are also naturally protective of their home and family. Their sheer size and imposing presence can be a deterrent to would-be intruders, even though the breed is not known for aggression. Instead, they rely on their size, bark, and confident demeanor to signal their protective intentions. Saint Bernards are not prone to unnecessary barking, but they will alert their owners if they sense something unusual or threatening.
Their protective nature, combined with their calm temperament, makes them especially good with children. Saint Bernards are patient and gentle with kids, earning them the nickname “nanny dogs.” However, due to their size, supervision is always recommended when they are around small children to avoid accidental knocks or bumps.
Social and Intelligent
Saint Bernards are highly social animals. They thrive on companionship and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. They get along well with other dogs and animals, particularly when raised with them from a young age. Their intelligence also makes them relatively easy to train, though their laid-back nature means they may not always be the most eager to perform tricks or tasks quickly. Consistent training with positive reinforcement works best for this breed, especially when training starts early.
Caring for a Saint Bernard: Health, Grooming, and Exercise
Owning a Saint Bernard is a rewarding experience, but it also comes with unique challenges due to the breed’s size and needs. Understanding how to properly care for these dogs is essential for their health and happiness.
Health Considerations
Like many large breeds, Saint Bernards are prone to certain health issues. Some of the most common health concerns include:
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Due to their large size and rapid growth, Saint Bernards are at risk for joint problems like hip and elbow dysplasia. These conditions occur when the joints do not develop properly, leading to pain and mobility issues. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and appropriate exercise can help manage and reduce the risk of these conditions.
- Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): Saint Bernards are also at risk for bloat, a serious condition where the stomach twists and traps gas, leading to life-threatening complications. Feeding them smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding vigorous exercise after eating can help reduce the risk of bloat.
- Heart Conditions: The breed can be prone to heart issues such as dilated cardiomyopathy, a condition where the heart becomes enlarged and weakened. Regular veterinary check-ups and monitoring for signs of fatigue or breathing difficulties are essential for early detection and treatment.
Saint Bernards have a relatively short lifespan, averaging between 8 and 10 years. While they are generally healthy dogs, their size contributes to the physical strain on their joints and organs, which can affect their longevity.
Grooming Needs
Given their thick coats, Saint Bernards require regular grooming to keep their fur in good condition. This is especially true for the rough-coated variety, which can develop mats and tangles if not brushed frequently. A thorough brushing two to three times a week is recommended to prevent matting, and more frequent brushing may be needed during shedding seasons, typically in the spring and fall.
Saint Bernards also drool—a lot. Owners should be prepared for this aspect of the breed, especially after the dog eats or drinks. Keeping a cloth handy to wipe their mouths is often necessary to prevent excessive drool around the house.
Bathing is necessary only occasionally, unless the dog gets particularly dirty, but their large size can make this task a bit of a challenge. Regular ear cleaning, teeth brushing, and nail trimming should also be part of their grooming routine.
Exercise Requirements
Despite their size, Saint Bernards are not overly active dogs. They enjoy a moderate amount of exercise and do best with daily walks and some playtime in the yard. However, they are not built for strenuous activities like running or intense agility training. Short, regular walks are usually sufficient to meet their exercise needs.
One important consideration for Saint Bernard puppies is to avoid excessive exercise during their early growth stages. Over-exercising young puppies can strain their developing joints, leading to long-term issues. Short, controlled activities are best until they reach adulthood.
Space and Living Conditions
Saint Bernards are adaptable dogs, but their size makes them better suited for homes with ample space. While they can live in apartments if provided with regular walks and access to outdoor exercise, they tend to thrive in larger homes with fenced yards. Their thick coat makes them well-suited for colder climates, but they can struggle in hot weather due to their size and dense fur. Providing plenty of water, shade, and cool areas is crucial during warmer months to prevent overheating.
Is a Saint Bernard Right for You?
Before bringing a Saint Bernard into your home, it’s important to consider whether this breed aligns with your lifestyle. While they are gentle, loving, and protective, their size, grooming needs, and health considerations make them a more demanding breed to care for. Potential owners should be prepared for the time, effort, and financial commitment required to care for such a large dog.
If you have the space, time, and resources to care for a Saint Bernard, you’ll be rewarded with a loyal, affectionate companion who will fiercely protect and love your family. Their calm demeanor, gentle nature, and watchful protectiveness make them ideal family pets, particularly for those who enjoy a more relaxed, low-key lifestyle.
Conclusion
The Saint Bernard’s rich history as a hero of the Swiss Alps has cemented its reputation as a loyal, protective, and gentle breed. Their size may be imposing, but their hearts are full of love and devotion to their families. Understanding the breed’s origins, personality, and care requirements is essential for anyone considering welcoming one of these gentle giants into their home.
Whether you’re drawn to their life-saving legacy, their calm and patient nature, or simply their undeniable charm, the Saint Bernard is a breed that offers boundless loyalty and affection. They are more than just their size—they are true companions in every sense of the word.