The Saint Bernard breed origininated in the Swiss Alps in the Middle Ages. The dogs were used for herding, turning spits and for rescuing stranded travellers. The animals heightened senses of smell enabling them to find the bodies of people buried in avalanches. The dazed human would often wake to a rough wet tongue on their face or hands. The dogs wake up call. Unfortunately, one of these brave dogs so unnerved a rescued man that he thought he was being attacked and killed his rescuer!
Over the millenia the monks who are purported to have founded the breed at the monestary of Saint Bernard de Menthon on the Great Saint Bernard Pass between Switzerland and Italy, added to the breeds strengths by crossing the dog with Bernese Mountain Dogs, Mastiffs and possibly Great Danes.
Today the breed is known as one of the giants of the dog world. Dogs often weighing over 13 stone and bitches over 10 stone. The qualities of gentleness and loyalty have remained in the breed. It is a very family oriented animal and loves to give you great slobbery kisses.