Saint Bernard

It would be difficult to mistake the St Bernard for any other dog, for this gentle giant is depicted everywhere as a symbol of rescue and care. A descendant of mastiff-type dogs brought to the Swiss Alps by the Romans at the Hospice of St Bernard for rescuing travelers lost in the St Gothard Pass. There are two coat-types: rough-and smooth-coated.

A well-proportioned, massive dog of substance, the huge head has a broad, slightly rounded skull and a short, deep muzzle. The nose is black, The dark eyes are medium-sized and should have a benevolent expression. The triangular ears are also medium-sized and lie close to the cheeks. The neck is thick and muscular with a well-developed dewlap. The deep-chested body has a straight back and muscular loins and is carried on straight, heavily-boned legs. The feet are large, which no doubt help the dog progress through snow. The tail is long.

There are two coat-types Rough-coated: Flat and dense and full around the neck. Smooth-coated: Close-fitting and hound-like with feathering on the thighs and tail. Colours are orange, mahogany-brindle, red-brindle, or white with patches on the body of any of these colours.

Fortunately, this massive dog is an extremely benevolent character with a steady, calm nature. Walks are usually taken at a leisurely pace, but a St Bernard can pull extremely hard, so needs to be kept under control. The dog is inclined to drool and is not one of those large breeds that can curl up into surprisingly small spaces; indeed, owners tend to fit themselves into whatever space is left over. Feeding is an expensive undertaking.

The St Bernard has a placid, affectionate nature, but because of ifs massive size and strength requires careful handling.