Saint Bernards are thought to have originated from Molosser-type dogs that the Roman army brought to Switzerland. These dogs were first used in Switzerland for drafting, guarding, and herding. Eventually the dogs were used at the Swiss Alps’ Hospice of the Augustine Monk Bernard de Menthon. The Hospice’s monks discovered that these dogs were of invaluable assistance in navigating snowy routes and locating lost travelers. Male Saints stand at least 27.5 inches at the shoulder, and females stand at least 25.5 inches at the shoulder. There are two varieties of coats: short-haired or long-haired. Both short-haired and long-haired coats may come in red with white markings, white with red marking, or brindle with white markings. Saints are affectionate, sweet, and gentle dogs. They tend to get along well with all people, but some Saints cannot be trusted around small animals. Saints shed and drool profusely.

To learn how to rescue a Saint Bernard in need of a home or for breeder referrals from the Saint Bernard Club of America click here.
 

Potential Health Issues*

• Callus Dermatitis
• Cherry Eye
• Congenital Deafness
• Cranial Cruciate Ligament Ruptures
• Dermoid Cysts
• Diamond Eye (combined Entropion and Ectropion)
• Dilated Cardiomyopathy
• Distal Polyneuropathy
• Ectropion
• Ehler-Danlos Syndrome
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Entropion
• Epilepsy
• Folliculitis
• Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (Bloat)
• Hemophilia A & B
• Luxating Patella
• Lymphosarcoma
• Microphthalmia
• Narcolepsy
• Osteochondrosis
• Osteosarcoma
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy
• Wobbler Syndrome