The term “St. Bernard” is connected to the canines at the hospice located on the Great St. Bernard established in 1050. Dogs started aiding the monks from the century and these furry companions are viewed as the precursors of present day mountain dogs.
Saint Bernard
St. Bernard Dogs: From Hospice Helpers to Iconic Mountain Companions
The early St. Bernard dogs looked quite different from the ones we see today. They were not as big. Their coat colors were not the same, as what we’re familiar with now. It wasn’t until the century that the appearance of the breed became more consistent including the inclusion of hair despite it not being ideal for working in mountain passes.
Different countries, like Germany established their breed standards known as “Alpenhund”. Eventually in 1887 the Swiss standard was widely. Became the guideline for the breed.
The St. Bernard breed gained recognition because of its role as avalanche rescue dogs used by the monks at the Great St. Bernard Hospice, especially a renowned dog named Barry who reportedly saved, over 40 lives.
St. Bernard Swiss National Dog
However, the modern Bernhardiner is no longer as well suited for this role due, to changes in its breeding. It has become larger and heavier over time leading to dog breeds taking over as avalanche rescue dogs.
However there are still a St. Bernards trained for avalanche rescue duties at the Fondation Barry in Martigny, where the St. Bernard tradition is upheld. Visitors can observe these dogs on the Great St. Bernard Pass during the summer months with guided hikes, alongside them being an experience.
In times the Swiss national dog is commonly kept as a pet and companion animal. Since 1884 it has proudly held the title of Switzerlands dog and remains popular worldwide among families and dog enthusiasts because of its friendly demeanor and loyal nature.
Video THE SAINT BERNARD DOG – GIANT ALPINE RESCUER
Anneka meets the most famous Alpine Lifesaver to have existed – The Saint Bernard – Depicted at always carrying a brandy toddy underneath his chin – this incredible dog has saved thousands of stranded travellers on the Saint Bernard Pass in the Alps as well as avalanche victims. But what are one of these GIANT dogs like as a pet – Anneka meets Rhiannon of Tomorady Saints to find out…
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