Saint Bernard

n. large breed of dog (trained especially to rescue people from avalanches in the Alps)

St. Bernard, St Bernard or Saint Bernard may be:PeopleBernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153)Bernard of Menthon (923-1008)Bernard of Vienne (778-842)Bernardino of Siena (1380-1444)Blessed Bernardo Tolomei (1272-1348)Blessed Bernard of Corleone (1605-1667) Bernard Due Van Vo, one of the Vietnamese Martyrs
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Noun
1. a Swiss alpine breed of large powerful thick-coated dog used as a rescue dog
(synonym) St Bernard
(hypernym) working dog

n. Saint Bernard, large breed of dog (trained especially to rescue people from avalanches in the Alps)

Longhaired Saint Bernard.
Photo: Pet Profile - Isabelle Francais

Height: 25-30 inches
Weight: 110-200 lbs.
Life Span: 8-10 yrs.
Breed Group: Guardian Dogs
Overview
Well-bred, trained Saint Bernards are gentle and affectionate, but unruly or disobedient ones can be dangerous. They must be socialized and enrolled in obedience classes early. They are good with children if introduced to them early and usually get along with other animals, although males may try to dominate. Their great size and ominous bark deter intruders. Avoid aggressive games. Some Saint Bernards are heavy droolers.
Appearance
The shorthaired Saint Bernard has a short, dense coat; the longhaired is longer and slightly wavy. Coat color is red and white and brindle with white markings. Dark shadings on the face and ears are common.
Grooming & Exercise Needs
Both varieties need brushing once a week. Getting them to exercise is sometimes difficult.
Origins
This breed is probably descended from Roman Molossians of the 2nd century A.D. In the 17th century, monks of the Hospice of Saint Bernard in the Swiss Alps kept Saint Bernards as guards and mountain guides and to find lost travelers. These dogs also showed an uncanny ability to detect approaching avalanches.
Special Alerts
It is especially important to obtain a Saint Bernard from a reputable breeder. This breed is not suitable for inexperienced dog owners.
Breed-related health concerns: hip and elbow dysplasia, lymphoma, osteochondritis dissecans, osteosarcoma, bloat, epilepsy, hemophilia (a bleeding disorder), cardiomyopathy, eye problems.