Saint Bernard

Saint Ber·nard

noun \-bər-ˈnärd\

Definition of SAINT BERNARD

:  any of a Swiss alpine breed of tall powerful working dogs used especially formerly in aiding lost travelers

Illustration of SAINT BERNARD

Origin of SAINT BERNARD

the hospice of Grand St. Bernard, where such dogs were first bred

First Known Use: 1839

Saint Bernard

geographical name

Definition of SAINT BERNARD

— see great saint bernard, little saint bernard

Saint Bernard

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Breed of rescue dog that saved about 2,500 people over 300 years of service at a hospice in Great St. Bernard pass in the Pennine Alps. Probably descended from mastiff-like dogs, it was brought to the hospice in the late 17th century. A powerful dog with a massive head and drooping ears, it stands at least 25 in. (65 cm) and weighs 110–200 lbs (50–90 kg). Its dense coat is red-brown and white or brindle and white and may be short or medium-long. The long-haired variety was produced by crosses with the Newfoundland in the early 19th century.