The Saint Bernard is an iconic dog breed originating from the Swiss and Italian Alps, famous for its role as a rescue dog in the mountains. This large dog is gentle and affectionate, despite its imposing appearance. Although it was once used to find lost travelers in the snow, today it is primarily a beloved companion dog known for its calm and patient nature.
The Saint Bernard is an imposing dog, standing between 65 and 90 cm at the shoulder and weighing between 50 and 90 kg, or even more for some individuals. It has a powerful, well-muscled, and sturdy body. Its head is broad with a short, square muzzle. Its eyes are soft and express great kindness. There are two varieties of Saint Bernard: short-haired and long-haired. In both cases, its coat is dense, typically white with red-brown or fawn markings.
The Saint Bernard can have either a short or long coat. The short coat is dense and smooth, while the long coat is slightly wavy but never curly. In both cases, the undercoat is thick to protect the dog from cold temperatures. Regular brushing is recommended, especially for the long-haired variety, to prevent tangles and keep the coat clean.
The Saint Bernard is one of the largest dog breeds. Its height ranges from 65 to 90 cm for males and from 60 to 80 cm for females. Weights can reach 90 kg or more in some specimens, making it a very powerful dog with a robust bone structure and well-developed musculature.
The Saint Bernard is known for its gentle and balanced temperament. It is a very affectionate and loyal dog toward its family. It is particularly patient with children, making it an excellent family dog. However, due to its large size, it can be somewhat clumsy and requires sufficient space to move around. While it is naturally protective, it is not aggressive and is generally friendly with strangers.
Like many large breeds, the Saint Bernard can be prone to health issues such as hip or elbow dysplasia, as well as heart problems. Its lifespan is relatively short, around 8 to 10 years. It is important to monitor its diet and provide enough exercise to prevent obesity, which could worsen its joint issues.
