Online Encyclopedia Search Tool

Your Online Encyclopedia

 

Online Encylopedia and Dictionary Research Site

Online Encyclopedia Free Search Online Encyclopedia Search    Online Encyclopedia Browse    welcome to our free dictionary for your research of every kind

Online Encyclopedia



St. Bernard (dog)


St. Bernard
St. Bernard owned by Wilbur Wright
Enlarge
St. Bernard owned by Wilbur Wright
Alternative names
St.Bernhardshund
Bernhardiner
Alpine Mastiff
Saint Bernard
Country of origin
Switzerland
Classification
FCI: Group 2 Section 2
AKC: Working
ANKC: Group 6 (Utility)
CKC: Group 3 - Working Dogs
KC(UK): Working
NZKC: Utility
Breed standards (external links)
FCI, AKC, ANKC, KC(UK), NZKC


The St. Bernard Dog is a large dog originally bred for snow rescue and as a working dog. It is known for its loyalty and vigilance and is tolerant of children, animals, and strangers. Because of those traits, it has become a family dog.

History

The origin of the St. Bernard cannot be fully determined. Formerly, they were the herding dogs of Swiss farmers as well as hunting dogs and watchdogs. Their history has also been connected with the hospice at the St. Bernard pass. First reports of the dogs' presence at the pass date to the 17th century, and they still are loyal companions to the monks there.

Naming

The name "St. Bernard" was not in widespread use until the middle of the 19th century. The dogs were called "Saint Dogs", "Alpenmastiff" or "Barry Dogs" before, and in parts of North America, they're still called "Saints".

Scipio, a St. Bernard dog of Orville Wright
Enlarge
Scipio, a St. Bernard dog of Orville Wright


Last updated: 10-24-2004 05:10:45