Page 72 - The Complete Dog Breed Book Choose the Perfect Dog for You, New Edition (DK)

72 GUIDE T O BREED S

SAINT BERNARD

ALMOST UNRIVALED FOR SIZE, THIS KINDLY GIANT HAS A DELIGHTFUL TEMPERAMENT AKC

Height range Originally crossbred from mastiff-type dogs by the monks of St. Bernard’s Massive head
28–30 in (70–75 cm) Hospice in the Swiss Alps, this breed’s sometimes exaggerated reputation with wide skull
Weight range as a mountain rescue dog extends worldwide. Affectionate and
130–180 lb (59–81 kg)
utterly trustworthy, the Saint Bernard has many virtues.
Life span 8–10 years It is calm-natured, taking life at a moderate pace.
Origin Switzerland The Saint Bernard is comparatively rare as a house
dog due to its colossal size, and the amount
of space needed to accommodate its sheer
bulk can hardly be overestimated; food bills
Other colors are another major consideration. There are
two coat types: smooth and rough.

Slightly
Brindle pendulous flews Typical
White markings black shading
on face
Characteristic
white markings
on legs
White collar
Broad,
straight back
White patch

Flat, deep
cheeks

Long, thick neck
with pronounced
dewlap

Bushy, Smooth,
white tail orange and
white coat

Smooth-haired

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