Saint Bernard History

Although the exact origins of the Saint Bernard are not completely documented, historical records, combined with reasonable speculation, provide a fascinating picture of how this remarkable breed developed.

The Saint Bernard’s famous lifesaving work is believed to have begun around the year 1700. Before becoming rescue dogs, they were likely kept by monks at the hospice in the Swiss Alps as watchdogs and companions during the long winter months when heavy snow often left the monks isolated. Over time, the dogs began accompanying the monks on mountain patrols, particularly after severe snowstorms, when travelers were at risk of becoming lost or trapped.

The dogs appeared to have an extraordinary ability to sense dangerous conditions, including the possibility of avalanches. Their keen instincts made them valuable companions as the monks traveled the treacherous mountain paths. Eventually, the dogs became skilled at locating and assisting travelers who had become lost or buried in the snow.

Groups of two or three male dogs were eventually sent out on their own to search for missing or injured travelers. When a dog located someone buried beneath the snow, it would dig through the snow, alert the person, and, when necessary, lie beside or on top of the traveler to provide warmth. Another dog would return to the hospice to alert the monks that someone needed assistance. Travelers who were still able to walk could often be guided back to the hospice by the dogs themselves. The natural instinct to dig through snow and awaken people buried or lying in the cold can still be seen in Saint Bernards today.

The Development of the Longhaired Saint Bernard >