Saint Bernard
Compiled and researched by Izelle de Klerk (BSc) - Dodgy Dogs & Crazy Cats
Canine & Feline Behaviourist
Canine & Feline Behaviourist
Pic - St Bernard Rescue. If you are considering adopting, please do consider breed rescue first and foremost. These guys do wonderful work in matching dogs to owners. Link below and if not in your area, please do search for a rescue centre nearer to you - https://www.facebook.com/saintbernardrescuegroup/
The Saint Bernard was founded in 980 AD by St Bernard de Menthon and bred by the monks. It probably descends from the heavy Asian Molosser (or mastiff-type) dogs brought to Switzerland by Roman armies during the first two centuries A.D., which were crossed with native dogs of the day.
Bernard for much of his life lived high up in the mountains where the winters were severe. There was no public transport and supplies had to be brought in on foot, he would walk for miles over treacherous terrain and may have taken dogs with him. The dogs protected against robbers as well as found safe paths for him to follow so he didn’t fall into snow covered crevasse. They also had an uncanny way of sensing that an avalanche was coming, perhaps their acute ears heard the rumbling of falling snow high in the mountains.
This was before "breeds" developed, all dogs were mongrels and interbred with each other in this isolated area. Only the strongest survived; particularly larger dogs with thick coats and large feet for walking on snow; while the weak died naturally of rabies and other dog illnesses
Bernard was a Christian who took his faith seriously, he decided to go all-out for God and became a priest who worked for the people of the Alps for 42 years. In 980 he founded two hospices (lodgings) for Alpine travelers; anyone lost in the snow - sometimes injured or suffering from frostbite - were rescued and taken to the hospice to recover. Male dogs were sent out unaccompanied from the hospice in pairs or packs to patrol the passes. Good-natured dogs were suited to this teamwork, fighting and aggressive dogs were not suitable. If they found someone stuck in snow, one dog would dig him out or lie down beside him to keep him warm while the others returned to the hospice to alert the monks so they would send a search party, otherwise if the traveler could walk, the dogs would lead him to the safety of the hospice
The hospice at Great St Bernard Pass is still in use today. It can sleep 300 people but no one may stay more than one day except in an emergency.
Bernard dedication to God and compassion for the lost travelers, led to the development of this lovely breed. He was declared the patron saint of mountain climbers in 1923 by Pope Pius XI.
Bernard's dogs had short coats. The monks found that snow and ice stuck to long-haired dogs, freezing them up with extra weight - shorter-haired dogs were more able to shake the snow off. It is not until 1695 that we are able to see what the dogs of the St Bernard's hospices looked like - they were painted by an artist. But only in 1880 was it decided to call the breed "Saint Bernard."
Cartoons often depict the St Bernard with a keg of brandy attached to his collar to revive the lost. In reality, it is highly unlikely that the dogs were ever sent out with barrels round their necks as this would slow them down. The original dogs did not wear collars.
The Saint Bernard is a giant, strong and muscular dog. They have massive powerful head, short muzzle, broad nose, high set ears, muscular legs with large feet and a long powerful tails. There are two types of coat that can vary in length: rough, and smooth; but both are very dense and come in white with markings in tan, red, mahogany, brindle, and black. Their eyes are usually brown but can be icy blue - nearly white and there is no “dry mouthed” Saint Bernard, so prospective owners should be prepared for the drooling that accompanies this breed.
Apart from rescuing mountain goers some of the Saint Bernard's other talents are guarding, herding, watchdog and cart-pulling.
Personality
Saint Bernard’s are highly intelligent, affectionate, extremely gentle, friendly, very loyal, slow moving, patient, obedient, eager and willing to please. They are rowdy and exuberant when they are young, and laid back and calm when mature.
Just be prepared that they are as big as you are and incredibly strong and they will want to sit on your feet, lie in your lap, and lean against your leg.
Is this the correct pup for you, which is the best home and why?
As this is not an overly active breed they do not need tones of space, they are relatively inactive indoors and a small fenced off yard will be sufficient. They will also do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They can live outdoors but have a low tolerance for hot weather, warm rooms, and cars and can wheeze and snore. They should always have water available as well as a cool area to lie down in.
Saint Bernard’s were bred to be search and rescue dogs, and they need daily exercise and mental stimulation; however, they are not terribly active dogs so they will need some incentive to exercise. Toys may or may not interest them so that incentive usually ends up being you; also be aware that abrupt changes of temperature are really hard on this breed, so be careful taking him from an air-conditioned couch out onto a steaming hot sidewalk.
A daily long walk is enough to keep the Saint Bernard in good mental and physical condition. Puppies should not have too much exercise at one time until their bones are well formed and strong, short walks and brief play sessions are best until the dog is about two years old.
These dogs are very protective of their family (sometimes they can be overly protective) and although they are generally not as aggressive as dogs bred for protection, they may bark at strangers making them very good watchdogs. While their intimidating size can scare off intruders making them a good guard dogs as well
Be sure to socialize this breed very well at a young age with people and other animals in order to prevent behavioural issues such as fearfulness, aggression or territoriality.
In a nutshell, a Saint Bernard is for you if you:
Bernard for much of his life lived high up in the mountains where the winters were severe. There was no public transport and supplies had to be brought in on foot, he would walk for miles over treacherous terrain and may have taken dogs with him. The dogs protected against robbers as well as found safe paths for him to follow so he didn’t fall into snow covered crevasse. They also had an uncanny way of sensing that an avalanche was coming, perhaps their acute ears heard the rumbling of falling snow high in the mountains.
This was before "breeds" developed, all dogs were mongrels and interbred with each other in this isolated area. Only the strongest survived; particularly larger dogs with thick coats and large feet for walking on snow; while the weak died naturally of rabies and other dog illnesses
Bernard was a Christian who took his faith seriously, he decided to go all-out for God and became a priest who worked for the people of the Alps for 42 years. In 980 he founded two hospices (lodgings) for Alpine travelers; anyone lost in the snow - sometimes injured or suffering from frostbite - were rescued and taken to the hospice to recover. Male dogs were sent out unaccompanied from the hospice in pairs or packs to patrol the passes. Good-natured dogs were suited to this teamwork, fighting and aggressive dogs were not suitable. If they found someone stuck in snow, one dog would dig him out or lie down beside him to keep him warm while the others returned to the hospice to alert the monks so they would send a search party, otherwise if the traveler could walk, the dogs would lead him to the safety of the hospice
The hospice at Great St Bernard Pass is still in use today. It can sleep 300 people but no one may stay more than one day except in an emergency.
Bernard dedication to God and compassion for the lost travelers, led to the development of this lovely breed. He was declared the patron saint of mountain climbers in 1923 by Pope Pius XI.
Bernard's dogs had short coats. The monks found that snow and ice stuck to long-haired dogs, freezing them up with extra weight - shorter-haired dogs were more able to shake the snow off. It is not until 1695 that we are able to see what the dogs of the St Bernard's hospices looked like - they were painted by an artist. But only in 1880 was it decided to call the breed "Saint Bernard."
Cartoons often depict the St Bernard with a keg of brandy attached to his collar to revive the lost. In reality, it is highly unlikely that the dogs were ever sent out with barrels round their necks as this would slow them down. The original dogs did not wear collars.
The Saint Bernard is a giant, strong and muscular dog. They have massive powerful head, short muzzle, broad nose, high set ears, muscular legs with large feet and a long powerful tails. There are two types of coat that can vary in length: rough, and smooth; but both are very dense and come in white with markings in tan, red, mahogany, brindle, and black. Their eyes are usually brown but can be icy blue - nearly white and there is no “dry mouthed” Saint Bernard, so prospective owners should be prepared for the drooling that accompanies this breed.
Apart from rescuing mountain goers some of the Saint Bernard's other talents are guarding, herding, watchdog and cart-pulling.
Personality
Saint Bernard’s are highly intelligent, affectionate, extremely gentle, friendly, very loyal, slow moving, patient, obedient, eager and willing to please. They are rowdy and exuberant when they are young, and laid back and calm when mature.
Just be prepared that they are as big as you are and incredibly strong and they will want to sit on your feet, lie in your lap, and lean against your leg.
Is this the correct pup for you, which is the best home and why?
As this is not an overly active breed they do not need tones of space, they are relatively inactive indoors and a small fenced off yard will be sufficient. They will also do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They can live outdoors but have a low tolerance for hot weather, warm rooms, and cars and can wheeze and snore. They should always have water available as well as a cool area to lie down in.
Saint Bernard’s were bred to be search and rescue dogs, and they need daily exercise and mental stimulation; however, they are not terribly active dogs so they will need some incentive to exercise. Toys may or may not interest them so that incentive usually ends up being you; also be aware that abrupt changes of temperature are really hard on this breed, so be careful taking him from an air-conditioned couch out onto a steaming hot sidewalk.
A daily long walk is enough to keep the Saint Bernard in good mental and physical condition. Puppies should not have too much exercise at one time until their bones are well formed and strong, short walks and brief play sessions are best until the dog is about two years old.
These dogs are very protective of their family (sometimes they can be overly protective) and although they are generally not as aggressive as dogs bred for protection, they may bark at strangers making them very good watchdogs. While their intimidating size can scare off intruders making them a good guard dogs as well
Be sure to socialize this breed very well at a young age with people and other animals in order to prevent behavioural issues such as fearfulness, aggression or territoriality.
In a nutshell, a Saint Bernard is for you if you:
- Don't mind having a gigantic dog being part of your family
- Don't mind a dog that drools a lot, especially after eating or drinking
- Don't mind a dog with a lot of fur that sheds
- Are willing to start training and socialisation from a young age
- Are willing to groom them daily
- Want a dog that is not very active
- Want a good watch/guard dog
- Can afford to feed this breed, they have a huge appetite
- Want a dog that is good with children
Where do I get my pup from?
Only from reputable breeders! One can contact the Kennel Union Of South Africa (KUSA). They have a list of breeders who have puppies available or contact a KUSA affiliated breed club.
Always try and meet both parents of the puppies. This is not always possible as the sire (father) may be an imported dog. Definitely ask to see the mother.
Please read our articles on how to choose a reputable breeder on the Puppies page. If looking for an older dog, please do consider adopting from breed rescue.
Which other breeds are most compatible with the Saint Bernard?
They are gentle and good-natured and will get along with any breed dog.
Is it wise to have two or more of the same breed?
Most definitely, this is the most ideal situation as they understand each other. Preferably have a male and female. Two females will also get along as long as they are introduced as puppies. An older female will get on with a puppy female but it is not advisable to introduce two fully grown females. Always have only one male unless you have a lot of experience handling dogs.
Should I get two pups together?
This is not a good idea. Most people think that the pups will be happier with a playmate and won’t fight if they are family. The truth of the matter is that your two pups are likely to:
Please read ‘Placing Littermates in the same home’ and ‘Double Trouble – (why you shouldn’t get two puppies)’ on our website for more information.
Is it wise to keep same-sex dogs?
To keep two or more same-sex dogs of a rather dominant breed together, is often a recipe for conflict. They can get along fine, until they are ‘triggered’ by a ball or a bone lying on the lawn, when both might want to take possession of it, or by someone delivering mail and when they rush for the gate and can’t get to the ‘intruder’, they go for one another. Additionally, as the pup reaches the adolescent stage, its own position in the canine pack will assume much importance. This can lead to fighting between dogs and especially in the case of two females. The fights can be very serious and may not be able to be solved.
Only from reputable breeders! One can contact the Kennel Union Of South Africa (KUSA). They have a list of breeders who have puppies available or contact a KUSA affiliated breed club.
Always try and meet both parents of the puppies. This is not always possible as the sire (father) may be an imported dog. Definitely ask to see the mother.
Please read our articles on how to choose a reputable breeder on the Puppies page. If looking for an older dog, please do consider adopting from breed rescue.
Which other breeds are most compatible with the Saint Bernard?
They are gentle and good-natured and will get along with any breed dog.
Is it wise to have two or more of the same breed?
Most definitely, this is the most ideal situation as they understand each other. Preferably have a male and female. Two females will also get along as long as they are introduced as puppies. An older female will get on with a puppy female but it is not advisable to introduce two fully grown females. Always have only one male unless you have a lot of experience handling dogs.
Should I get two pups together?
This is not a good idea. Most people think that the pups will be happier with a playmate and won’t fight if they are family. The truth of the matter is that your two pups are likely to:
- Bond with each other to the exclusion of you
- Will stress without the other dog being around
- Fight with each other
- Be more destructive and boisterous
- Two pups together often leads to one being more assertive and the other more submissive. This could well end up in a situation where the more submissive dog will never develop its full potential.
- Mature later
Please read ‘Placing Littermates in the same home’ and ‘Double Trouble – (why you shouldn’t get two puppies)’ on our website for more information.
Is it wise to keep same-sex dogs?
To keep two or more same-sex dogs of a rather dominant breed together, is often a recipe for conflict. They can get along fine, until they are ‘triggered’ by a ball or a bone lying on the lawn, when both might want to take possession of it, or by someone delivering mail and when they rush for the gate and can’t get to the ‘intruder’, they go for one another. Additionally, as the pup reaches the adolescent stage, its own position in the canine pack will assume much importance. This can lead to fighting between dogs and especially in the case of two females. The fights can be very serious and may not be able to be solved.
Do they get on well with other animals?
Due to their sweet even-tempered nature they get along very good with other dogs and usually ignore cats.
Keep in mind that, like with all dogs, the level at which these dogs get along with other animals depends greatly on how well they were socialized as pups
Are they good with children?
Saint Bernard’s are famous for how good they are with children. They seem to have an innate understanding for how children think and behave; and are incredibly patient, gentle and will go out of their way not to hurt them. The biggest threat to small children is being knocked over by this breed's larger size. However you will have to protect the dog from the children, as they might try to ride him like a horse.
Training requirements and grooming
Training
Because of its large adult size, it is essential that proper training (especially obedience training) and socialization begin while the St. Bernard is still a puppy and thus a manageable size. If not they can - like all dogs - learn bad habits; and you do not want a giant, incredibly strong dog running your house.
They aren't that easy to train as they can be independent, and occasionally stubborn. They learn new commands slower than the majority of other breeds and you will need to be extra patient when training them. They are, however, quick to housetrain.
Because of their size it is important to teach this dog not to jump on humans and to walk calmly on a leash.
Grooming
Their coats, which come in short-haired and long-haired varieties, only requires occasional brushing. However because they are very heavy shedder you may have to brush them daily to remove loose hair.
Only bathe when necessary, shampoo may strip the coat of its oily, water-resistant properties, so use a mild soap.
Their eyes, which may be inclined to water, need special attention to keep them clean and free of irritants and infection.
As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the ears, nose, mouth, and on the feet. Ears should smell good, without too much wax or gunk inside, and eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early.
Health concerns
The very fast growth rate and the weight of a St. Bernard can lead to very serious deterioration of the bones if the dog does not get proper food and exercise. Many dogs are genetically affected by hip or elbow dysplasia. Osteosarcoma (bone cancer) has been shown to be hereditary in the breed. They are also susceptible to eye disorders called entropion and ectropion (in which the eyelid turns in or out). Other problems include epilepsy and seizures, a heart disease called dilated cardiomyopathy, eczema and bloat - it is best to feed them two or three small meals a day instead of one large meal.
“In today’s age, with the rising cost of veterinary care, it really is a wise decision to consider medical insurance for your pets. Depending on the plan you choose, you can ensure that if your pet does develop one of the health issues the breed is prone too, that you will be covered –additionally, just knowing that any accident your pet may have will be covered, will out-weigh the monthly insurance fee for most pet owners. Our own personal choice is Genricpet as they have a ‘no limit’ policy and their rates are comparable to the rest of the industry. To find out the questions and things to look for in a Medical Insurance, please just follow this link”
Life expectancy
Because of their huge size they don’t have a very long lifespan, about 8-10 years.
Interesting Facts
Due to their sweet even-tempered nature they get along very good with other dogs and usually ignore cats.
Keep in mind that, like with all dogs, the level at which these dogs get along with other animals depends greatly on how well they were socialized as pups
Are they good with children?
Saint Bernard’s are famous for how good they are with children. They seem to have an innate understanding for how children think and behave; and are incredibly patient, gentle and will go out of their way not to hurt them. The biggest threat to small children is being knocked over by this breed's larger size. However you will have to protect the dog from the children, as they might try to ride him like a horse.
Training requirements and grooming
Training
Because of its large adult size, it is essential that proper training (especially obedience training) and socialization begin while the St. Bernard is still a puppy and thus a manageable size. If not they can - like all dogs - learn bad habits; and you do not want a giant, incredibly strong dog running your house.
They aren't that easy to train as they can be independent, and occasionally stubborn. They learn new commands slower than the majority of other breeds and you will need to be extra patient when training them. They are, however, quick to housetrain.
Because of their size it is important to teach this dog not to jump on humans and to walk calmly on a leash.
Grooming
Their coats, which come in short-haired and long-haired varieties, only requires occasional brushing. However because they are very heavy shedder you may have to brush them daily to remove loose hair.
Only bathe when necessary, shampoo may strip the coat of its oily, water-resistant properties, so use a mild soap.
Their eyes, which may be inclined to water, need special attention to keep them clean and free of irritants and infection.
As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the ears, nose, mouth, and on the feet. Ears should smell good, without too much wax or gunk inside, and eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early.
Health concerns
The very fast growth rate and the weight of a St. Bernard can lead to very serious deterioration of the bones if the dog does not get proper food and exercise. Many dogs are genetically affected by hip or elbow dysplasia. Osteosarcoma (bone cancer) has been shown to be hereditary in the breed. They are also susceptible to eye disorders called entropion and ectropion (in which the eyelid turns in or out). Other problems include epilepsy and seizures, a heart disease called dilated cardiomyopathy, eczema and bloat - it is best to feed them two or three small meals a day instead of one large meal.
“In today’s age, with the rising cost of veterinary care, it really is a wise decision to consider medical insurance for your pets. Depending on the plan you choose, you can ensure that if your pet does develop one of the health issues the breed is prone too, that you will be covered –additionally, just knowing that any accident your pet may have will be covered, will out-weigh the monthly insurance fee for most pet owners. Our own personal choice is Genricpet as they have a ‘no limit’ policy and their rates are comparable to the rest of the industry. To find out the questions and things to look for in a Medical Insurance, please just follow this link”
Life expectancy
Because of their huge size they don’t have a very long lifespan, about 8-10 years.
Interesting Facts
- The 15th of June is known as St Bernard's feast day, it is a day for St Bernard owners to let their dogs celebrate with a feast.
- The first Saint Bernards were of the short haired variety, as the long-haired variety's coat tended to collect icicles.
- They are able to smell a people under many feet of snow and have also been known to be able to predict storms and avalanches. This may be possible because of the dog's ability to hear very low frequency sounds which humans cannot.
- The most famous St. Bernard to save people at the pass was Barry (sometimes spelled Berry), who reportedly saved somewhere between 40 and 100 lives. It is said that he once found a small boy in the snow and persuaded the boy to climb on his back, and then carried the boy to safety. There is a monument to Barry in the Cimetière des Chiens, and his body was preserved in the Natural History Museum in Berne.
- Walt Disney popularized the breed in the 1992 comedy film Beethoven; it features a large, friendly but troublesome St. Bernard (called Beethoven) and, in later sequels, his mate and their brood of unruly pups. According to the producers of the sequel Beethoven's 2nd, the St. Bernards used in the film grew so fast during filming that over 100 St. Bernard puppies were cast to portray the sequel's four puppies (Tchaikovsky, Chubby, Dolly, and Mo) and a mother St. Bernard name Missy.
- The word, "saint" means a person who has dedicated his life to serving God. "Bernard" is the first name of the guy whom the dogs are named after: Bernard of Menthon 923 - 1008 AD.
- St. Bernard is the National Dog of Switzerland
- A St. Bernard named Benedictine V Schwarzwald Hof (Pierson, Michigan - USA) holds the record for being the heaviest dog in the world, he reached 143 kg, which earned him a place in the 1981 edition of the Guinness Book of World Records.
- An 1895 New York Times report mentions a St. Bernard named Major F. measuring 2.59 m in length, who - if the claims are true - would be the longest dog in history.
- A St Bernard is often credited with being the dog that helped save Manchester United, currently one of the world's largest football clubs, from financial ruin. The legend goes that in 1902 when the club owed sizable debts, the then captain Harry Stafford was showing off his prized St Bernard at a fund-raiser for the club when he was approached by a wealthy brewery owner, J.H. Davis, who enquired to buy the dog. Harry Stafford refused the offer but managed to convince him to buy the club thus saving Manchester United from going bankrupt.
Do`s and Don`ts of this breed
Do’s
Don’ts
Reference
http://www.petsplace.co.za/st_bernard.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._Bernard_(dog)
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/saintbernard.htm
http://www.justdogbreeds.com/saint-bernard.html
http://www.petwave.com/Dogs/Dog-Breed-Center/Working-Group/Saint-Bernard.aspx
Do’s
- Make sure they always have a cool place to go so they don’t over heat
- Start obedience training and socialization as early as possible
- Do make sure you can afford to feed and care for them
Don’ts
- Leave them outside as backyard dogs, they need to be part of the family
Reference
http://www.petsplace.co.za/st_bernard.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._Bernard_(dog)
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/saintbernard.htm
http://www.justdogbreeds.com/saint-bernard.html
http://www.petwave.com/Dogs/Dog-Breed-Center/Working-Group/Saint-Bernard.aspx