Dog Breed of the Week: Saint Bernard
Wednesday June 17, 2009
For many, the Saint Bernard conjures images of huge rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps carrying barrels of an alcoholic beverage on their collars. While it is true that they were skilled search and rescue dogs, the barrels are actually folklore. This is good news for the many thousand travelers assisted by Saint Bernards throughout the 17th-20th century, as alcohol would have actually caused more harm than good. The "barrel myth" likely snowballed into legend after it was portrayed in a painting by Edwin Landseer entitled Alpine Mastiffs Reanimating a Distressed Traveler. In fact, much of the Saint Bernard's history is cloaked in legend and the truth is debated by many.
The indisputable fact is that Saint Bernards are massive dogs with even bigger hearts. Though they still have the ability to be excellent working dogs, Saints are typically seen as gentle, lovable family companions. The breed was also made famous when it was portrayed as a lovable goofball in the film Beethoven and its many sequels.
So, what's your take on the legends? Are you devoted to the giant and lovable Saint Bernard? Tell us more, and send pictures!
Photo © Oni Saints on flickr
Comments
cute puppy
A member of our family has always owned St. Bernards,and they are great dogs. They are so loving and sweet. Some people think they aren’t very smart dogs, but that isn’t true at all. All the ones I’ve been around are just the opposite in fact. Personally, I prefer the short-haired, dry mouth breed of St.Bernard if I ever get the room to own one myself.
I’ve known three St. Bernards. Their owners really liked their personalities but all three owners said the “drool” was a turnoff and they would not get St Bernards a second time.
Dear Jenna -> Writing to you from all the way in Bangkok, Thailand. We have a lovely Shih Tzu for the last 7 years, Kibbles. He is the center of attraction but a little spoiled brat also! He pees everywhere, and paper training, even sprays, old house wives theories of vinegar, hot water, etc., nothing works. Any ideas?
I read and learn a lot of things about people and their pets. It is interesting to me…but hardly any of the training stuff has anything to do w/my relationship w/ my dog. I have taught her very few things…i can only think of 1 and that is to stop or at least hesitate at corners before crossing the street. We do not do the leash thing…the thought of using one is repugnant. I know i am very lucky to have a very smart dog…all i do is positive reinforcement and yell when i need to …..all i can tell you is that it is absolutely the greatest experience of my life how we interact and are tied together w/affection and my voice. People tell me how lucky i am and how did i do it….i got her from my friend and took the leash off and hoped she got the idea…she did…i am with her practically 24/7…..the thought of being attached to her by an object so she can poop would make our relationship a waste of my time since it is not what i want…i want independent obedience=and i got it…no pack leader…we are teamates….she leads….i lead…we dont care….i love it and i love nothing but what i have with her….sad in a way…but it is beautiful
These guys are the most mellow, gentle dogs out there. There’s 2 that come to the dog park in my town regularly, and at least another 3 or 4 that live outside of town. Even my little dog (a Lapso Apso) don’t seem to mind them, and he’s a bit on the nippy side with huge breeds. I can promise I may end up taking one of these big boys home with me ^_^.
i have a st bernard his name is rocky they are bertecktive but they drool alot
I am trying to look for my one year male saint bernard to be breeded do you have any suggestions where I should look?
Beethoven says it all, there cute but when dirty, hideeeeeeee.
I Have had many dogs in my life but one touched my heart more then any other. He was a giant st.benard named Mighty Joe. He was a loyal Sweet dog.with the gentalest soul I have ever known. He had a keen mind.He was a key member of the family and a good friend .He will be missed.