Saint Bernards are giant, loving members of many families. Though their lifespans aren’t overly long, they make a big impact during the time they have with their people. They’re also an intelligent breed with an impressive history. Read on to learn more about them!

They Were Snowy Saviors

Saint Bernards share a name with the dangerous pass where they saved countless lives, beginning in the late 17th century. The dogs were companions and helpmates of the monks at the hospice of St. Bernard, located by the Great St. Bernard Pass in the Alps between Italy and Switzerland. Winter travel could be treacherous in the area, with many people either getting lost or buried in avalanches.

Saint Bernards sprang to action when someone was in trouble, catching the scents of people up to 20 feet below the surface of the snow. They’d not only locate those in need; they would also dig them out and lay on them to warm them back up. They were typically sent out with other dogs, so their companion would fetch the monks for help while the rescuer continued to revive the rescuee. The dogs are estimated to have saved more than 2,000 people over 300 years.

They’ve Had Plenty of Other Jobs, Too

With their history as snowy saviors, it’s not surprising that Saint Bernards have also been used as search and rescue dogs outside the Alps. That isn’t their only talent, though. These pups have worked as cattle, draft, and guard dogs. They’re also lovers and fighters. Their docile and sweet natures have led to some working as therapy dogs, but their forebears were likely war dogs.

One of Their Favorite Jobs is ‘Cuddler’

These days, most Saint Bernards are family dogs, not working dogs. That doesn’t mean they don’t have an important job inside the home, though: Cuddling. The breed is known for their gentle and affectionate natures, as well as their big hearts for their families. Not only do they want to hang out with their people no matter what they’re doing; they also want to ensure there are plenty of snuggles along the way.

There’s a Lot to Cuddle

If you’re in need of a good snuggle, there may not be a better being to give it to you than a Saint Bernard. These fluffy, kind-hearted lovebugs give you a lot to snuggle. They can grow up to two-and-a-half feet tall at the shoulders and weigh up to 180 pounds. That’s heavier than the average person’s weight on each continent! Who needs a person hug when you can get one from a Saint Bernard?

They Played a Role in Napoleon’s Story

Napoleon’s army crossed the Alps in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. This involved travel along the dangerous Great St. Bernard Pass and meetings with Saint Bernards when things got dicey. None of his 250,000 soldiers died during those passages, and many shared stories of the dogs as they recounted their journeys.

They’re Famous in Pop Culture

If you grew up in the 1990s, you may associate Saint Bernards with the kids’ film series "Beethoven", in which the titular character is a lovable Saint Bernard. That wasn’t their only brush with fame, though. There was also a Saint Bernard named Neil in the 1950s TV series “Topper.” Neil is the ghost of a dog who died trying to save a couple from an avalanche. Unfortunately, they weren’t saved, either, so they hang out together in the hereafter.

A very famous rescue dog named Barry, who was credited with saving at least 40 lives in the early 1800s, also has his own monument and exhibit at the Natural History Museum in Bern, Switzerland.

They’re Great Nannies

Though not all Saint Bernards can have their own museum exhibit or starring role in a film series, they’re all heroes to the children in their lives. The breed has been referred to as “nanny dogs” due to their gentle, affectionate interactions with children. They can also be very protective of them. Due to their size, though, it’s still important to get them training at an early age to ensure their bulk doesn’t pose any difficulties.

They’re a Bit Drooly

One difficulty you’ll encounter regardless of the individual Saint Bernard is drool. These dogs can leave a lot of it in their wakes – on the furniture, the walls, and even on their people. When it’s warm, the drool gets especially bad because they don’t tolerate the heat well. Their owners need to take special care to keep them cool during heat waves.

They Can Learn Some Tricks, Happily!

With their smart, industrious history and their love of making their people happy, Saint Bernards can be trained to do a variety of things, especially if they’re encouraged to do so with positive reinforcement. The breed has been known to do well in carting and drafting competitions, nose work, and swimming. Puppy training should also involve socialization and obedience, as these dogs are often unaware of their size.

Their Nation Loves Them

Dogs that have saved a few thousand lives within a country’s borders deserve a little love, and Switzerland agrees. The country has made Saint Bernards their national dog. In honor of such a prestigious award, you may want to give your Saint Bernard an extra treat and an extra cuddle today.