Dogs 101 - SAINT BERNARD - Top Dog Facts About the SAINT BERNARD

Dogs 101 - SAINT BERNARD - Top Dog Facts About the SAINT BERNARD

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The Saint Bernard is a breed of large working dogs. Descended from molosser type mountain dogs brought to the Swiss Alps by the ancient Romans, these dogs were originally used in hunting, to draw carts, and as guard dogs. In the late 1600s, some of these dogs arrived at the St. Bernard Hospice, a lodge for people traveling between Switzerland and Italy. The monks there found that these dogs had a natural gift for search and rescue. Used in these parts with little influence from any outside breeds for many years, a series of severe winters, disease and inbreeding brought down their numbers drastically in the early 1800s. To preserve the breed, the remaining dogs were crossed with Newfoundlands between 1830 and 1850. These dogs first came to England around the same time, with the name St. Bernard becoming common by the late-1800s. The working dogs used at St. Bernard Hospice had been smaller dogs, but kennel clubs and dog shows emphasized appearance over working ability, and the larger dog that we know today as the St. Bernard was developed.

Time for some Ruff Trivia:
- Which bestselling book by Stephen King, also made into a movie, has a Saint Bernard as its title character?
o A: Carrie
o B: Cujo
o C: Firestarter
What do you think, give it your best guess in the comments below before we get to the answer! Hang on tight and we’ll get back to this Ruff Trivia Question toward the end of the video.

The minimum height of an adult male St. Bernard is 27.5 inches, and that of the female is 25 inches. The typical weight range for both is 120 to 200 pounds. It is a strong, muscular dog, with a powerful head. The medium sized ears form a rounded triangle and drop like flaps close to the head. The tail is long and heavy, hanging low. The coat is either smooth or rough – the smooth coat is close and flat; the rough is dense, flat and more profuse. Typical colors are red with white, or mahogany brindle with white. Black shading is present usually on the face and ears.

Grooming: Brushing twice in a week, with occasional baths, should be enough to keep the St. Bernard’s coat clean. This is a drooling breed, and requires regular wiping of the face. Brushing of teeth, trimming of nails and cleaning of ears have to be regular too.

Environment: The St. Bernard is a gentle and affectionate breed, especially good with children. Though it is great as a family pet, potential owners should be fully aware of the responsibilities that come with owning a large dog. It is best raised outdoors.

Training: Being a large dog, early obedience and socialization training are particularly important for a St. Bernard. It is an intelligent breed and can be easily trained for competition as well as general good behavior. The dog’s exercise needs can be met with a moderate walk or short runs. Vigorous training, especially in the growth ears, is discouraged.

Health: The life expectancy of a St. Bernard is 8 to 10 years. Because of fast growth and weight, a number of bone-related problems like hip and elbow dysplasia are common. Bone cancer is a hereditary ailment in the breed. Other possible issues can be eye related disorders like entropion and ectropion; epilepsy and seizures; and eczema.

Technology might have replaced the St. Bernard in search and rescue operations, but the breed has retained its kind and loving nature that brought relief to thousands of lost travelers. The company of this loyal, intelligent and gentle dog would be a rewarding experience if you can provide it the physical space a dog of its size needs.

Find out if the Saint Bernard would be a good addition to your home. Now you can visit Brooklyn’s Corner.com to take our quiz and find out which dog would be the best match for you.

Music by Kevin McLeod - Royalty Free

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