Most well known as the protectrice ‘Nanny’ dog in Peter Pan, the St Bernard has been the dog of choice for many families since Disney’s 1953 film graced our screens. There’s good reason for that too. With their mild temperament and loving, watchdog nature, a St Bernard is a reliable companion with a fondness for kids.
Originally from the Swiss Alps, some may consider St Bernards to have an imposing stature, with their muscular torso and height. The large, wrinkly head and friendly eyes combine in an honest and trustworthy expression.
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Saint Bernard Characteristics
The American Kennel Club gives the St Bernard breed a high affection rating, noting also that they are one of the safest breeds for young children, thanks in part to their protective nature. Socially, the breed is very adaptable to changes in routine and trainable, but when it comes to meeting others, they’re likely to be more reserved at first.
Unlike a sheepdog or cocker spaniel, a St Bernard will be happy to lounge on the sofa and is mainly playful when encouraged. St Bernards don’t tend to bark too much, nor get overexcited. But due to their large build, it’s absolutely key that they receive the proper training from a young age. Don’t worry though; their inherent kind-hearted nature will lead the way for them to become the genial giants they’re known for.
Where do Saint Bernards come from?
The Saint Bernard dog is originally a working breed, hailing from the Western Alps in France, Switzerland, and Italy. They take their name from a hospice and hostel that’s still running to this day, at the Great St Bernard Pass (2473m altitude) on the Italian-Swiss border. Here, the dogs were originally taught to protect the hospice residents and continue the work of Bernard de Menthon. Soon though, the dog started to show great aptitude in helping out during mountain rescue operations on the treacherous pass, including making swift work of digging out travellers who’d become buried under snow drifts.
What colours are Saint Bernards?
Saint Bernard dogs are typically a mix of two colours. Often, this is a white underbelly with a reddish-brown top coat and black mask markings. It’s possible to find coats in colours all along the spectrum from light brown, to red, to orange.
How long do Saint Bernards live?
As a larger dog, the typical life expectancy of a St Bernard dog is 8 to 10 years.
How big do Saint Bernards grow to be?
St Bernards are known for their gentle giant stature, with their thick torso and lolling mouths. They’re one of the few dog breeds that can grow to be the same weight as an adult human. An adult male can grow to be 63-82kg and 71-76cm, while an adult a female can grow to 52-63kg and 66-71cm.
How much exercise does a Saint Bernard need?
Don’t let the muscular figure fool you, a St Bernard doesn’t require huge amounts of exercise. One walk or play session per day is plenty, and they’ll likely prefer doing an activity with their owner to anything else.
What's the difference between a Saint Bernard and a Bernese Mountain dog?
Alike in features and stature, both Saint Bernards and Bernese Mountain dogs are gentle and loyal companions that are great with children. This is where the similarities end, though – a Bernese is much more energetic, demanding, and clingy than a Saint. Bernese require more exercise and a lot more grooming, yet are highly trainable. Meanwhile, Saints are lower maintenance and, physically, tend to grow to a slightly larger size. Both breeds are highly lovable and gentle though, so it's often a toss-up between the two for a family pet.
