HISTORY

ORIGIN   SWITZERLAND

GROUP  WORKING GROUP


Saint Bernards are descendants of the Roman Mastiffs. In the 17th century the monks of the Hospice of Saint Bernard in the Swiss Alps used these dogs as guard dogs and as guide dogs to find lost travelers.

APPEARANCE(S)

The Saint Bernard is a giant breed dog; they have big blocky heads with drop ears. The skin on the face is droopy and the lips droop below the chin. The body is large and built stocky with thick front and back legs, and the tail is long and bushy.

COLOR(S)


This breed is most commonly seen in red, brown with white markings.

COAT


The coat can be short or long. The short coat is dense and the long coat is dense but has some wave or curl.

PERSONALITY

ACTIVITY LEVEL


Moderate

POSITIVES


Saint Bernards are loving gentle giants. They love their families and are good with children and other animals.

THINGS TO CONSIDER


Some Saint Bernards can be heavy droolers.

IDEAL LIVING SITUATION

This breed would do well in the country or city if exercised daily.


HELPFUL INFORMATION/SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

This breed needs to be exercised daily and needs proper grooming.

BREED RELATED HEALTH CONCERNS

The following conditions are known to be seen in this breed, please look at our A to Z listing to find out detailed information.

  • Eye disorders
  • Lymphoma
  • Cardiomyopathy

NATIONAL CLUBS AND/OR ORGANIZATIONS

Saint Bernard Club of America
1043 S 140th Street
Burien WA 98168

FUN FACT(S)

The Saint Bernard has been responsible for saving more lives than any other dog breed.
Written by: PetsMD Veterinary Editorial Staff