What attribute of the St. Bernard’s temperament was crucial for making them effective rescue dogs in traumatic situations?
Answer
The calm demeanor necessary not to alarm injured people
Despite their overwhelming size and historical role as guardians of the hospice property, the St. Bernard is renowned for its gentle, calm, and patient temperament, often earning them the nickname 'gentle giants.' This placid nature was indispensable for their rescue work. When locating travelers buried under snow or lost in fog, they needed the immense physical strength to navigate the terrain, but equally importantly, they required a calm demeanor so as not to frighten or alarm a victim who was already injured, exhausted, or frightened.

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