{"id":506,"date":"2024-05-10T18:10:52","date_gmt":"2024-05-10T18:10:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/"},"modified":"2024-05-11T02:57:25","modified_gmt":"2024-05-11T02:57:25","slug":"how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/","title":{"rendered":"How Many Different Saint Bernard Breeds Are There?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Did you know that there are actually two different types of Saint Bernard breeds? While the Saint Bernard is well-known for its large size and gentle nature, many people may not be aware that there are two distinct varieties: the shorthaired and the longhaired. Despite their common ancestry, these breeds have slight differences in appearance, temperament, and grooming needs. In this article, we will explore the variations between these two types of Saint Bernards and help you understand which one may be a better fit for your family.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_61 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Origin_of_the_Saint_Bernard_Breed\" title=\"Origin of the Saint Bernard Breed\">Origin of the Saint Bernard Breed<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Origins_in_the_Swiss_Alps\" title=\"Origins in the Swiss Alps\">Origins in the Swiss Alps<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Working_as_Alpine_rescue_dogs\" title=\"Working as Alpine rescue dogs\">Working as Alpine rescue dogs<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Standard_Saint_Bernard_Breed\" title=\"Standard Saint Bernard Breed\">Standard Saint Bernard Breed<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Appearance_and_size\" title=\"Appearance and size\">Appearance and size<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Temperament_and_personality_traits\" title=\"Temperament and personality traits\">Temperament and personality traits<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Smooth-Coated_Saint_Bernard_Breed\" title=\"Smooth-Coated Saint Bernard Breed\">Smooth-Coated Saint Bernard Breed<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Distinct_features\" title=\"Distinct features\">Distinct features<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Differences_from_the_standard_breed\" title=\"Differences from the standard breed\">Differences from the standard breed<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Rough-Coated_Saint_Bernard_Breed\" title=\"Rough-Coated Saint Bernard Breed\">Rough-Coated Saint Bernard Breed<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Distinct_features-2\" title=\"Distinct features\">Distinct features<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Differences_from_the_standard_breed-2\" title=\"Differences from the standard breed\">Differences from the standard breed<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Short-Haired_Saint_Bernard_Breed\" title=\"Short-Haired Saint Bernard Breed\">Short-Haired Saint Bernard Breed<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Distinct_features-3\" title=\"Distinct features\">Distinct features<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Differences_from_the_standard_breed-3\" title=\"Differences from the standard breed\">Differences from the standard breed<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Alpine_Mastiff_Breed\" title=\"Alpine Mastiff Breed\">Alpine Mastiff Breed<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Origin_and_history\" title=\"Origin and history\">Origin and history<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Similarities_and_differences_with_Saint_Bernards\" title=\"Similarities and differences with Saint Bernards\">Similarities and differences with Saint Bernards<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Barry_Dogs\" title=\"Barry Dogs\">Barry Dogs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#First_known_Saint_Bernard-like_dogs\" title=\"First known Saint Bernard-like dogs\">First known Saint Bernard-like dogs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Role_in_the_development_of_the_breed\" title=\"Role in the development of the breed\">Role in the development of the breed<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Breed_Development_and_Preservation\" title=\"Breed Development and Preservation\">Breed Development and Preservation<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Selective_breeding_practices\" title=\"Selective breeding practices\">Selective breeding practices<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Efforts_to_preserve_the_breeds_original_purpose\" title=\"Efforts to preserve the breed&#8217;s original purpose\">Efforts to preserve the breed&#8217;s original purpose<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Recognition_and_Breed_Standards\" title=\"Recognition and Breed Standards\">Recognition and Breed Standards<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#International_Kennel_Club_recognition\" title=\"International Kennel Club recognition\">International Kennel Club recognition<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Breed_standards_and_traits_required_for_show_dogs\" title=\"Breed standards and traits required for show dogs\">Breed standards and traits required for show dogs<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Popularity_and_Ownership\" title=\"Popularity and Ownership\">Popularity and Ownership<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Global_popularity_as_family_pets\" title=\"Global popularity as family pets\">Global popularity as family pets<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/how-many-different-saint-bernard-breeds-are-there\/#Considerations_for_Saint_Bernard_ownership\" title=\"Considerations for Saint Bernard ownership\">Considerations for Saint Bernard ownership<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Origin_of_the_Saint_Bernard_Breed\"><\/span>Origin of the Saint Bernard Breed<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Origins_in_the_Swiss_Alps\"><\/span>Origins in the Swiss Alps<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Saint Bernard breed can trace its origins back to the Swiss Alps, where it was bred for its incredible strength, endurance, and ability to navigate treacherous mountain terrain. The breed&#8217;s roots can be traced back to the monks of the Saint Bernard Hospice, a hospice and monastery located in the Great St. Bernard Pass. These monks needed a dog that could assist them in their duties of aiding travelers who were either lost or trapped in the harsh alpine conditions.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Working_as_Alpine_rescue_dogs\"><\/span>Working as Alpine rescue dogs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Saint Bernard quickly gained a reputation as excellent Alpine rescue dogs due to their size, strength, and intelligence. These gentle giants were trained to search for lost travelers, dig through the snow to create shelter, and even revive those who were freezing by providing warmth and licking their bodies. They were also adept at carrying small supplies and messages in specially designed packs. Through their remarkable rescue missions, the Saint Bernards saved countless lives, earning them the nickname &#8220;snowy saviors.&#8221;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Standard_Saint_Bernard_Breed\"><\/span>Standard Saint Bernard Breed<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Appearance_and_size\"><\/span>Appearance and size<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The standard Saint Bernard breed is known for its impressive size and powerful build. Males typically stand between 27 and 30 inches at the shoulder, while females range from 25 to 28 inches. They have a distinctive broad head with kind, expressive eyes, and medium-sized, drooping ears. Their strong, muscular bodies are covered in a dense, water-resistant double coat that helps them withstand cold temperatures.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Temperament_and_personality_traits\"><\/span>Temperament and personality traits<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The standard Saint Bernard breed is known for its gentle, patient, and friendly nature. They are incredibly loyal and protective of their families, making them excellent family pets. Despite their large size, they are surprisingly gentle with children and other household pets. Saint Bernards are also known for their patience and tolerance, making them excellent therapy dogs. They have a calm and easygoing demeanor and are naturally inclined to please their owners.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Smooth-Coated_Saint_Bernard_Breed\"><\/span>Smooth-Coated Saint Bernard Breed<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Distinct_features\"><\/span>Distinct features<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The smooth-coated Saint Bernard breed, also known as the short-haired Saint Bernard, stands out for its shorter and smoother coat compared to the standard breed. The coat is still dense and water-resistant, but it lacks the longer fur commonly associated with the breed. The smooth-coated Saint Bernards have a sleeker appearance, highlighting their muscular build and well-proportioned bodies.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Differences_from_the_standard_breed\"><\/span>Differences from the standard breed<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>While the smooth-coated Saint Bernard shares the same traits and temperament as the standard breed, its shorter coat requires less grooming and maintenance. The absence of longer fur also means they are more comfortable in warmer climates, making them a popular choice in regions with milder weather conditions. Despite the slight variation in appearance, the smooth-coated Saint Bernard retains all the qualities that make the breed so beloved.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Rough-Coated_Saint_Bernard_Breed\"><\/span>Rough-Coated Saint Bernard Breed<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Distinct_features-2\"><\/span>Distinct features<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The rough-coated Saint Bernard breed, also known as the long-haired Saint Bernard, is characterized by its dense, longer fur that keeps them warm in cold weather conditions. Their luxurious coat provides them with extra protection from the elements, particularly in mountainous regions. The rough-coated Saint Bernards, like their smooth-coated counterparts, boast a well-muscled body and share the same overall appearance.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Differences_from_the_standard_breed-2\"><\/span>Differences from the standard breed<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Apart from their longer and thicker coats, rough-coated Saint Bernards are otherwise the same as the standard breed in terms of temperament and personality traits. The main difference lies in their grooming needs. The dense, long fur requires regular brushing and occasional trimming to maintain its health and prevent matting. While grooming may be more time-consuming, the beautiful coat of a rough-coated Saint Bernard can be a sight to behold.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Short-Haired_Saint_Bernard_Breed\"><\/span>Short-Haired Saint Bernard Breed<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Distinct_features-3\"><\/span>Distinct features<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The short-haired Saint Bernard breed, also known as the smooth-faced Saint Bernard, stands out due to its short muzzle and smaller head compared to the standard breed. The short-haired variety is bred for a more proportional and compact build, giving them a slightly different appearance. Their shorter face and smaller head contribute to a more refined and elegant look.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Differences_from_the_standard_breed-3\"><\/span>Differences from the standard breed<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>While the short-haired Saint Bernard may have a different facial structure and smaller head, they still possess the same temperament and personality traits as the standard breed. Their shorter face may contribute to fewer health issues, including respiratory problems, which can be more common in dogs with longer snouts. The short-haired variety offers a unique twist on the classic Saint Bernard appearance while maintaining the breed&#8217;s beloved traits.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Alpine_Mastiff_Breed\"><\/span>Alpine Mastiff Breed<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Origin_and_history\"><\/span>Origin and history<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Alpine Mastiff breed, closely related to the Saint Bernard, shares a similar origin story in the Swiss Alps. These dogs were also developed by the monks of the Saint Bernard Hospice. The Alpine Mastiff breed played a crucial role in the evolution of the Saint Bernard breed, serving as an ancestor to the modern-day Saint Bernards we know today.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Similarities_and_differences_with_Saint_Bernards\"><\/span>Similarities and differences with Saint Bernards<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Alpine Mastiff and the Saint Bernard have many similarities due to their shared ancestry. Both breeds possess the same strength, intelligence, and endurance that allowed them to excel as working dogs in the alpine region. However, there are slight differences in appearance and temperament. Alpine Mastiffs are generally larger and heavier than Saint Bernards and have a more dominant and protective nature. These differences contribute to their distinct breed classification while highlighting their close relationship with the Saint Bernard.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Barry_Dogs\"><\/span>Barry Dogs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"First_known_Saint_Bernard-like_dogs\"><\/span>First known Saint Bernard-like dogs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The origin of the Saint Bernard breed can be further traced back to the Barry dogs. Barry was a legendary Saint Bernard who lived at the Saint Bernard Hospice in the early 1800s. He gained fame for his remarkable rescue stories and is credited with saving the lives of over 40 individuals. The Barry dogs are considered the direct ancestors of the Saint Bernards we have today, passing down their heroic nature and innate rescue instincts.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Role_in_the_development_of_the_breed\"><\/span>Role in the development of the breed<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Barry dogs played a crucial role in the development of the Saint Bernard breed. Their bravery, loyalty, and extraordinary abilities helped shape the breed&#8217;s character and purpose. The stories of Barry and his offspring inspired the continued breeding and preservation of the breed for their invaluable contribution to human safety and companionship. Today, the legacy of the Barry dogs lives on as the Saint Bernard breed continues to exemplify the bravery and selflessness of their ancestors.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Breed_Development_and_Preservation\"><\/span>Breed Development and Preservation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Selective_breeding_practices\"><\/span>Selective breeding practices<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The development and preservation of the Saint Bernard breed involved careful and selective breeding practices. Breeders focused on maintaining the breed&#8217;s size, strength, and temperament while also addressing specific characteristics unique to each variety. Generations of breeding efforts allowed the breed to consistently exhibit the desired traits, ensuring the continuation of their important role as rescue dogs and beloved family pets.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Efforts_to_preserve_the_breeds_original_purpose\"><\/span>Efforts to preserve the breed&#8217;s original purpose<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Throughout history, efforts were made to preserve the original purpose of the Saint Bernard breed as Alpine rescue dogs. Despite technological advancements in rescue techniques, the breed&#8217;s unique abilities and natural instincts are still valued. Many organizations continue to train and utilize Saint Bernards in search and rescue operations, keeping the breed connected to its original vocation while also providing them with versatile roles beyond their traditional duties.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Recognition_and_Breed_Standards\"><\/span>Recognition and Breed Standards<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"International_Kennel_Club_recognition\"><\/span>International Kennel Club recognition<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Saint Bernard breed gained recognition by international kennel clubs, solidifying their status as a distinct breed. Organizations such as the F&Atilde;&copy;d&Atilde;&copy;ration Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and the American Kennel Club (AKC) acknowledge the breed&#8217;s importance and contribution to society. This recognition ensures the breed&#8217;s adherence to specific standards and regulations set forth by these reputable organizations.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Breed_standards_and_traits_required_for_show_dogs\"><\/span>Breed standards and traits required for show dogs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>To maintain the breed&#8217;s integrity and standardization, kennel clubs have established specific breed standards that dictate the ideal appearance and temperament of a Saint Bernard. These standards outline details such as size, coat color and texture, head shape, and overall structure. Show dogs are carefully evaluated against these standards, ensuring that breeders strive to maintain the breed&#8217;s unique qualities.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Popularity_and_Ownership\"><\/span>Popularity and Ownership<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Global_popularity_as_family_pets\"><\/span>Global popularity as family pets<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Saint Bernard&#8217;s gentle and friendly nature has made it a popular choice as a family pet around the world. Their loyal and protective instincts, combined with their inherent sweetness, make them excellent companions for households of all sizes. Many families are drawn to their gentle temperament and their ability to get along well with children and other pets. This breed&#8217;s popularity as a family pet extends far beyond their original role as rescue dogs.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Considerations_for_Saint_Bernard_ownership\"><\/span>Considerations for Saint Bernard ownership<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>While the Saint Bernard&#8217;s affectionate nature and loyalty make them a desirable breed, potential owners must consider a few important factors. Due to their large size, they require ample space for exercise and must be provided with a balanced diet to maintain a healthy weight. Saint Bernards also have a tendency to drool and shed, and their grooming needs can be demanding, especially for those with long coats. Additionally, their strong protective instincts mean they require consistent training and socialization from an early age. With proper care and attention, however, owning a Saint Bernard can be a rewarding and enriching experience.<\/p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Discover the two different types of Saint Bernard breeds &#8211; shorthaired and longhaired. Learn about their appearance, temperament, and grooming needs. Find out which one is a better&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":517,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[33,14],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/506"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=506"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/506\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":520,"href":"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/506\/revisions\/520"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/517"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=506"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=506"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/saintbernardpaws.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=506"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}