Saint Bernard

The Saint Bernard takes its name from the hospice on the Great St Bernard Pass in the Swiss Alps, where monks used it to guide travellers and find people lost in the snow.

The famous Barry is said to have saved dozens of lives in the early 19th century.

Calm, gentle and very patient, the Saint Bernard is an excellent family dog, particularly tolerant of children.

It must learn lead walking and calm behaviour early, as an adult is hard to hold back.

Its size exposes it to hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, cardiomyopathy, eyelid problems and some bone cancers.

Regular veterinary follow-up is essential.

Puppies should grow slowly on large-breed food. Adults: two or three meals a day and rest after eating.

Avoid any excess weight.

Calm daily walks are enough. Avoid intense effort during growth and in hot weather.

Above all it enjoys family life.

It needs a house with a shady garden and a large food and veterinary budget.

Whether short- or long-coated, it sheds a lot: brush two to three times a week, daily during the moult. It drools heavily.

Clean its eyes and jowls.