| The Saint Bernard is a gentle giant, despite being
descended from the fierce Molossus dogs of ancient
Rome. It is named after the medieval Hospice of
St. Bernard in the Swiss Alps, where it became famous
for rescuing travelers and climbers. Prior to 1830,
all Saint Bernards were short-coated, but in that year
Newfoundland blood was introduced in an attempt to
give the breed added size and vitality. As a result, the
modern Saint Bernard may be long- or short-haired.
True to its past, the Saint Bernard is intelligent,
eminently trainable, loves children, and is a kindly
dog. Like many heavyweights, the breed should not be
given too much exercise in the first year of life, with
short regular walks being better than long ones. It
needs daily brushing and requires generous quantities
of food. It also slobbers. Sadly, like the Great Dane,
this lovable, large dog has only a limited lifespan.
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