St Bernard dogs originally came from the Grand St Bernard Pass in Switzerland. During the Middle Ages a hospice was built up there – and the monks that lived within bred St Bernards.

Legend has it, these clever dogs would rescue people lost in the snow or caught in avalanches.

While many think the barrel around their necks contained booze, it actually was just a hot drink (not nearly as fun) to revive the victim while they waited for help to arrive.

Because of their size, they are great for taking with on adventures as these big fellas require a lot of exercise and fare well in cold temperatures.