St. Bernard
Summary
The Saint Bernard is perhaps the most famous dog in the world, eternally associated with the snowy mountains of the Alps and the Hospice of the Great St. Bernard, where monks bred it for centuries to rescue travellers lost in the mountain passes. With its impressive mass and natural instinct for finding people buried in snow, it is estimated to have saved more than 2,000 people over the centuries.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Giant
- Height (male)
- 80–90 cm
- Height (female)
- 65 cm
- Weight (male)
- 65–120 kg
- Weight (female)
- 50–90 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 8–10 years
- Coat
- Two varieties — short-haired (smooth and dense) and long-haired (wavy)
- Common Colors
- White with reddish or reddish-brown patches, or reddish base with white
Temperament & Personality
The Saint Bernard is the personification of the "gentle giant": calm, patient, tolerant, and extraordinarily affectionate. It is considered one of the best family dogs, especially with children, with whom it has almost infinite patience. It rarely barks without reason and does not have pronounced aggressive instincts. It needs space and is not suitable for small apartments. Generous drooling is a given.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- Moderate
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 60–90 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Moderate to high
- Shedding
- Heavy
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 6–8 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Epilepsy
- Eye problems
- Gastric dilatation/torsion
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Osteosarcoma
- Recommended Health Tests
- Cardiac examination
- Eye examination
- Hip and elbow X-rays
Compatibility
- With Children
- Excellent
- With Other Dogs
- Excellent
- With Cats
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Acceptable
