Thanks to Edwin Landseer, the world envisions a Saint Bernard with a miniature keg of brandy around its neck, off to rescue a lost, weary traveler. The painting he did in 1819 while visiting Switzerland stereotyped the dog breed endeared it with the public and was even somewhat true; certainly truer than the bad reputation the animal received in Stephen King’s, “Cujo.”

The Saint Bernard is a working class dog breed. It is a massive, tough and muscular dog founded by St. Bernard de Menthon in 980 A.D. Averaging 160 pounds and greater, travelers undoubtedly found the Saint Bernard suitable for helping pack themselves and their equipment across the tough terrain of the Alps irrespective of the season. Their use by the Hospice, which was a shelter, protection and often rescue for travelers crossing the Alpine pass between Italy and Switzerland, supports Malcolm’s painting, but no record of any brandy mini-kegs.

The dogs’ sense of smell, coupled with a keen hearing was soon observed and put to use by the monks for the Hospice. The dogs could easily find a stranded or lost traveler, even in deep snow. The dogs could be trained to go out in rescue packs, find lost, even buried, travelers, who would then revive and stay with the injured, frozen party, keeping them warm while a member of the rescue pack returned to the Hospice for a rescue team when applicable. Countless people saved over the years earned the Saint Bernard a historic, honorable and true legendary status, simplysans alcohol.

Despite its colossal size, the Saint Bernard does not have gigantic diet or exercise need. His modest needs may surprise you that they are really any greater than any other large breed dog. Normal feeding and moderate exercise, like a few short daily walks, will be satisfactory and healthy. Grooming needs aren’t huge either.

While they will shed moderately in the spring and fall seasons and appreciate daily brushings during this time, weekly will do most other times.