Saint Bernards: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly
By: Lizz CaputoThe cold never bothered these gentle giants anyway; explore the loyal companions known as Saint Bernards. Learn about their care, health, appearance and more!
Origin
From the snowy crags of the Swiss Alps comes a tale of heroism and heart – the story of the Saint Bernard. More than just mountain rescuers, these giants carry a legacy of courage, wrapped in a fur coat of loyalty and love.
It all began in the 17th century with monks and a mountain pass – the Great Saint Bernard Pass, to be precise. There, in the Western Alps of Switzerland, monks bred these colossal canines, not for the glamour of the show ring, but for the grit of mountain rescues. Known for their Herculean strength and an intrinsic sense of navigation, Saint Bernards were the heroes of the Alps, guiding lost travelers and saving lives in the snow.
Their role shifted as advancements in transportation and infrastructure reduced the need for their services. The breed's endearing qualities—immense loyalty, gentle temperament, and striking appearance—captured the hearts of many beyond their mountain origins.
By the 19th century, selective breeding emphasized these traits, aligning with the breed's growing popularity in dog shows and media portrayals. This cultural shift, coupled with stories of their heroic past, propelled Saint Bernards from the snowy slopes into the family home. Today, they are cherished not for their rescue capabilities but for their role as affectionate, patient, and protective family members.
What's with the iconic barrel?
The image of a Saint Bernard with a barrel around its neck is steeped in lore and history, tracing back to their origins as alpine rescue dogs. The barrel, often said to contain brandy, symbolizes the breed's role in providing warmth and aid to those stranded in the cold, mountain passes. While there's little historical evidence to support the idea that these barrels contained alcohol, or were used by the dogs themselves, the imagery has endured.
Even if it's more fiction than fact, the emblematic accessory highlights their bravery and the lifesaving missions they were famed for, cementing their legacy as one of the most beloved rescue dogs in history.
Appearance
Imagine a dog that’s more bear than pup – that's the Saint Bernard. With a frame that’s all muscle, a gaze that's soulful, and large ears indicative of their patient listening prowess, they’re impossible to ignore. Cloaked in coats of red with a splash of white, they stand like royal guards of the dog world: regal and loyal.
How big do Saint Bernards get?
They're big – really big – with males tipping the scales at up to 180 pounds of pure, fluffy love. Males generally stand 28-30 inches tall. A female Saint Bernard’s size is slightly smaller but equally impressive in stature.
Similar breeds
If the majestic Saint Bernard has captured your heart, you'll likely find kindred spirits in breeds such as the Newfoundland, Bernese Mountain Dog, Great Pyrenees, and Great Dane. Like Saint Bernards, these dogs exude warmth and affection. They’re known for their traits of gentleness, loyalty, and a profound love for companionship.
The Newfoundland, renowned for its sweet temperament and water rescue abilities, shares the Saint Bernard's serene disposition and devotion to its family.
Similarly, the Bernese Mountain Dog, with its striking tricolor coat and friendly nature, mirrors the Saint Bernard's loving demeanor and loyalty.
The Great Pyrenees, a majestic guardian breed with a noble demeanor, exhibits the same protective instincts and unwavering loyalty as the Saint Bernard.
Finally, the Great Dane, possesses a calm and friendly disposition that parallels the Saint Bernard's nature.
Temperament
Don’t let their size intimidate you; Saint Bernards are the epitome of the gentle giant. Known for their even temper and boundless affection, they fit right into family life, proving that the biggest hearts often come in the largest packages. They might greet strangers with a wag, but they reserve their deepest devotion for their families, embodying loyalty with every step.
When it comes to energy, while they may have a playful side, especially in their younger years, they generally have a relaxed and easygoing attitude. Due to their history as rescue dogs, they have an instinct to protect and care for those around them. They make excellent watchdogs. The Saint Bernard's temperament is characterized by its unwavering devotion and an affectionate nature.
Are Saint Bernards hypoallergenic?
Dreaming of a Saint Bernard but dread the sniffles? These giants aren’t the best match for allergy sufferers. With a double coat that sheds and drool that...well, drools, they’re as far from hypoallergenic as you can get.
But don’t despair; regular grooming and a lint roller can help keep the fuzz (and sneezes) at bay. Still, allergy sufferers must spend time with a Saint Bernard before bringing one into their home to assess their reaction.
If you need a pup that'll keep the sneezing at bay, check out our hypoallergenic breeds guide.
Illness/health concerns
Like all legends, Saint Bernards face their battles. Unfortunately, these lovable giants are susceptible to several health issues due to their large size and genetics.
Among these concerns are hip and elbow dysplasia, which can cause discomfort and mobility issues. Bloat, a potentially life-threatening condition, may also occur, along with heart conditions and eye problems.
They may also be predisposed to inherited conditions such as epilepsy and osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer.
Vigilance, a balanced diet, and regular vet visits may help them live long, fulfilling lives, guarding their health as they fill your life with joy.
Saint Bernard lifespan
On average, a Saint Bernard has a lifespan of around eight to 10 years, although it varies depending on lifestyle factors.
Estimated lifetime cost
Actual costs can vary wildly, but some sources estimate that you can expect to spend about $21k total when raising a Saint Bernard from puppyhood.
Estimated cost to insure
Big dogs may sometimes equal bigger vet bills. Therefore, insurance for a Saint Bernard typically ranges between $40 and $80 a month but can vary greatly depending on age, sex and location.
The good, the bad, the ugly
Like any dog breed, Saint Bernards have their share of quirks. The trick is to make sure that their characteristics - good, bad, and ugly - are compatible with your lifestyle and pack. Here are a few key traits that may come "pre-installed" in your mighty alpine pup.
Zen masters: Tolerant and patient with children and other pets, they can adapt to a variety of family situations and make steady, trustworthy companions. In short, they very rarely lose their cool. Still, socializing this breed young can help guarantee an even-temperament and social dog in adulthood.
BDE (big dog energy): While this breed could teach a class on going with the flow, their sheer size and might can't be ignored. Their thick coat and need for exercise (whether they want to or not) means they're not well-suited for studio apartments or scorching climates.
Yeti-core: When it comes to this breed's love of cold weather, they quite literally 'got it from their mama'. An alpine lineage means these pups are happiest when pulling sleds or making Saint Bernard angels in the snow. Arctic-climate lovers, this may be a match made in Hygge heaven.
Tidy home enemy: Slobber, shedding, drool - oh my! The Saint Bernard has all that and more. If you prefer a home that's spick-and-span and free of tumbleweeds, these mighty giants may not be the best fit for you.
Mo doggy, mo problems: Unfortunately for Saint Bernard lovers, their magnitude leaves them susceptible to a number of conditions that smaller dogs are spared by. If an extended lifespan and limited vet visits are a must for your lifestyle, a smaller pet may be more your speed.
Life with a Saint Bernard is an epic tale of love, slobber, and bear-sized hugs. They may need space to stretch, regular walks to keep fit, and a bit of drool management, but the joy they bring is immeasurable. They remind us that life's best moments come in all sizes – sometimes, the bigger, the better.
So you want a Saint Bernard...
Thinking of welcoming a Saint Bernard into your home? Embrace the journey with open arms (and maybe a bigger couch). Remember, a bit of prep, patience, and a lot of love can make all the difference.
