Information, Facts & Origins of the Saint Bernard Dog Breed
The Saint Bernard, or St. Bernard, originates from Switzerland and was bred originally for pulling carts, turning spits, watch and herd dogs but they are most famous for helping lost travellers. It's origins can be dated back to the Middle Ages. The Saint Bernard is also known by the other names of St. Bernard, St. Bernhardshund and Alpine mastiff. This dog is classified as one of the Working Dog Group which we go on to describe in detail in the section at the bottom of this page. The Saint Bernard was first Registered by the AKC (American Kennel Club) in 1885. Name Facts and Dog Names: This dog's name is often referred to in two separate words as St Bernard and mis-spelt as Saint Barnard, Saint Bernerds and St Barnard. Saint Bernard Dog NamesDescription of the Saint Bernard Dog Character and Temperament
Working dogs, like the St Bernard, are medium to giant size and are strong, often independent, domineering and difficult to manage. This, together with the immense sizes of many of the breeds, make many of the working dogs unsuitable as a normal family pet or first time dog owners. These dogs require firm control and must be properly trained. Formal obedience training should include a proper socialising program. Training need not be difficult as Working dog breeds are generally quick to learn and intelligent. Some of the working dog breeds are easier to handle such as the Newfoundland dog, the Portuguese Water Dog, the Samoyed and the Saint Bernard. Description of the Saint Bernard Dog and Puppies - Coat and Colours information
The Saint Bernard's coat is normally a shade of orange, mahogany-brindle, red-brindle or white with various coloured markings. The coat is normally dense, short and smooth. Dog Health information - potential health problems of the Saint Bernards
All owners of dogs and puppies are concerned about the health care of their pets and just as with humans dog health issues arise from time to time. Resolving dog health problems, including those of the Saint Bernard, can prove to be costly and it would be wise to consider the benefits of obtaining dog health insurance. Diseases in dogs may occur because of trauma, infection, immune system abnormalities, genetic factors, or degenerative conditions. Common health problems and questions occur in relation to the Bones, Joints, Muscles, Nerves, Ears, Eyes, Teeth and the Mouth. Other, more serious, issues can relate to the Digestive System, Heart & Respiratory Systems, Immune & Blood Systems, Reproduction and Urinary Systems. Potential health problems of the Saint Bernard may be checked via the Dog Symptoms Sorter, but can include:- Hip Dysplasia (abnormal development of hip joints referred to as CHD - Canine Hip and Elbow Dysplasia)
- Epilepsy
- Entropion (the inversion, or turning inward, of the border of the eyelid against the eyeball)
- Gastric Torsion
For additional information we have provided an Online Encyclopaedia of Common Dog Health Problems which can be accessed via the Canine Health section from the Site Map. This describes the most common health problems concisely but simply without using medical jargon. The Online Encyclopaedia of Common Dog Health Problems should only be used as an informational guide and when and if any dog or puppies health problems occur it is essential to raise any questions you may have with a Dog Health care professional.The St. Bernard does not tolerate the heat well. |
