What Kind of Dog Is Beethoven? Facts & Behind-the-Scenes
Released in 1992, Beethoven is a very popular movie aimed at families and children that features an adorable star. Beethoven, the lovable and mischievous canine protagonist of the movie, is a breed known as St. Bernard. The family in the film adopts Beethoven as a puppy, and as he grows up, chaos and hilarity follow in his every enormous footstep!
It’s impossible for this movie not to pull at your heartstrings and tickle your funny bone. In real life, St. Bernards are a large and imposing breed known for their gentle and friendly nature. Read along to find out more about this unique breed and learn some behind-the-scenes information about the movie.
Facts About the St. Bernard
St. Bernards are among the largest dog breeds, with males typically weighing between 140 to 180 pounds (64 to 82 kilograms) and females weighing between 120 to 140 pounds (54 to 64 kilograms). They stand at around 26 to 30 inches (66 to 76 centimeters) tall at the shoulder. St. Bernards have a massive and muscular build, a broad head, and a friendly expression. They have a thick double coat that is typically red with white markings or mahogany brindle with white.
Due to their large size, St. Bernards require regular exercise to stay healthy and fit. However, they are not overly energetic and are content with moderate daily walks and playtime. Their thick coats require regular grooming to prevent matting and keep them clean and healthy. Despite their imposing size, St. Bernards are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They are typically easy-going, patient, and excellent with children, making them popular family pets. They are also known for their loyalty and protective instincts.
Like all breeds, St. Bernards are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat, and heart conditions. Responsible breeding practices and regular veterinary check-ups can help mitigate these risks.
Behind-the-Scenes of Beethoven
Making movies featuring animals is no simple task. The filmmakers behind Beethoven employed various tips and tricks to bring this sweet canine to the big screen.
1. Beethoven, Beethoven, and Beethoven!
A few different dogs played Beethoven in the movie to ensure none were overworked. One was named Beethoven in real life! The dog you see most often on screen, however, was a cute pup named Chris.
2. “Authentic” Slobber
St. Bernard’s are famous for their drooly jowls. To create even more doggie drool for the movie, the crew used a mix of food dye and egg whites and applied it liberally wherever needed.
3. Enter the Stunt Dogs!
St. Bernards that were specially trained to perform stunts safely were used in the movie’s more active scenes.
Conclusion
In the movie Beethoven, the titular St. Bernard captures hearts with his lovable antics and endearing personality, showcasing the breed's affectionate and loyal nature. Beethoven's character embodies many of the traits that have made St. Bernards beloved companions for centuries, cementing their place as one of the most iconic dog breeds in popular culture.
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Featured Image Credit: Rita_Kochmarjova, Shutterstock
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Nicole has loved animals of all sizes her whole life so it's no wonder she has dedicated her career to helping them through what she loves best: learning, writing, and sharing knowledge with others. She’s the proud mom of two dogs, a cat, and a human. With a degree in Education and 15+ years of writing experience, Nicole wants to help pet parents and pets around the planet to live happy, safe, and healthy lives.
