Border Collie Bernard

While the exact origin of the Border Collie Bernard is unknown, it is suspected that the breed was developed after a surge in hybrid breeds. Many hybrid breeds were developed in order to rule out major health conditions. The Border Collie Bernard was conceived from a mix of the Border Collie and the Saint Bernard. While the Saint Bernard is a giant breed, the Border Collie Bernard is a medium-to-large breed with a significantly smaller build. This cautious canine is believed to have existed prior to 1800. While the Border Collie itself was not known by its name, there were numerous working dogs that possessed unique herding styles at the time. 

In 1860, the Birmingham Dog Society shined light on the Border Collie by holding classes for “Scotch Sheep Dogs”. The first standard for the Border Collie was developed in 1906. In 1995, the American Kennel Club officially recognized the Border Collie. The Border Collie Bernard's other parent breed – the Saint Bernard – is a massive breed also known by a plethora of other names: the Alpine Mastiff, the Alpine Dog, the Alpine Spaniel, the Barry Dog, the Good Samaritan Dog, the Holy Dog, the Monastery Dog, the Mountain Dog, and the Saint. 

Throughout the years, the Saint Bernard has saved human lives in the Swiss alps (over 2000 lives). Its talent for rescue is impressive and the breed has an excellent track record. In 1810, the breed was first brought to England under various names. In 1830, the Saint Bernard was then cross-bred with the Newfoundland in order to rid it of harsh diseases. In 1885, the Saint Bernard was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club.