Everything about St. Bernard dogs

"A dog is a heart on four paws." This saying describes few breeds better than the St. Bernard. Made famous by the legend of Barry, the heroic avalanche rescue dog, this Swiss dog breed not only has a fascinating history but also a unique character. The St. Bernard stands for strength, gentleness, and loyalty. In this article, you'll learn everything you need to know about this impressive breed—from its origins to life with a St. Bernard to practical tips.

Origin and History: The Legend of the St. Bernard

The St. Bernard has a rich history dating back to the 11th century. Monks at the hospice on the Great St. Bernard Pass—an important pass in the Valais Alps—bred dogs to protect and accompany travelers and pilgrims. The harsh weather conditions of the region demanded a robust and resilient breed. The ancestors of today's St. Bernards were somewhat smaller, but just as strong and adaptable.

The breed became famous thanks to Barry, who rescued over 40 people from snow avalanches between 1800 and 1810. His story made the St. Bernard a symbol of rescue and loyalty. Interestingly, the image of the St. Bernard with the iconic barrel around its neck only later emerged through artistic depictions. Today, the St. Bernard is not only the national dog of Switzerland, but is also known and appreciated worldwide.

Modern breeding began in the 19th century, when size and stature were specifically promoted. In 1884, the St. Bernard was the first dog breed to be registered in the Swiss Dog Register. There are two main varieties: short-haired (stock-haired) and long-haired St. Bernards.

Character, attitude and life with a St. Bernard

Character: The gentle giant

The Saint Bernard is a calm, gentle dog, particularly impressive for its strong loyalty and patience. These qualities make it an excellent family dog, especially if there are children in the household. Despite its imposing size, it is often known as the "Gentle Giant." Saint Bernards are alert, watchful, and protective without being aggressive.

Requirements for keeping

A St. Bernard is not a dog for small apartments or people short on time. Keeping them presents special challenges:

• Space requirements: With a weight of up to 80 kg and a shoulder height of up to 90 cm, they require a lot of space. A house with a garden is ideal.
• Exercise: Saint Bernards aren't elite athletes, but they do need regular exercise. Long walks, preferably in nature, are sufficient. Climbing stairs or strenuous exercise should be avoided to protect their joints.
• Grooming: Long-haired dogs, in particular, require daily brushing to prevent matting. Their ears should also be checked and cleaned regularly. St. Bernards also tend to drool, which is something to consider when choosing your dog's fur.

Life with a St. Bernard

A St. Bernard brings peace and serenity to everyday life, but also requires a great deal of dedication. His gentle nature makes him a wonderful companion, but his size and weight present practical challenges. For example, you should make sure your car is large enough to transport him safely. He also needs a permanent sleeping place that meets his needs.

Saint Bernards aren't dogs that bark excessively, but they can be alert. With proper training, which should be loving but consistent, they develop into well-balanced companions. Their friendly nature also makes them a good second dog if socialized early.

Health aspects

Unfortunately, St. Bernards are prone to a number of health problems, including:

• Hip and elbow dysplasia: Joint disorders are common in this breed. Regular veterinary visits and avoiding obesity are essential.
• Heart problems: These can occur especially in old age.
• Gastric torsion: A serious and potentially life-threatening condition common in large dog breeds. Smaller, more frequent meals can help prevent it.

The life expectancy of a St. Bernard is 8 to 10 years. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and plenty of love will help ensure a happy life.

Is it easy to acquire a St. Bernard?

Buying a St. Bernard requires careful planning. Reputable breeders place great importance on the health and welfare of their animals. Breeders are often members of the Swiss St. Bernard Dog Club (SKBH) or similar associations. A St. Bernard puppy typically costs between CHF 2,000 and CHF 4,000. Alternatively, it's worth checking out animal shelters, where St. Bernards occasionally find new homes.

Before purchasing one, you should make sure that you have the space, time and resources to meet the needs of such a dog.

Conclusion

The St. Bernard is more than just an impressive dog—he is a gentle giant with a big heart. His history, character, and majestic appearance make him a unique breed. However, keeping a St. Bernard requires responsibility, patience, and dedication. Those who meet these requirements will find in him a loyal and loving companion for many years.

To better understand the fascination of this breed, we recommend the following video: