It’s important to choose the correct dog breed for your lifestyle, particularly when two well-liked and endearing giants—the Saint Bernard vs the Bernese Mountain Dog—are involved. Both breeds are noted for their gentle demeanour, loyalty, and suitability for families, but they have key distinctions that may make one a better choice for you than the other.
In this article, we’ll go into the Saint Bernard vs. Bernese Mountain argument, comparing their temperament, activity needs, grooming requirements, health problems, and more. Whether you’re drawn to the calm and patient Saint Bernard or the playful and exuberant Bernese Mountain Dog, this guide will help you select which breed suits you best.
1. Saint Bernard and Bernese Mountain Dog
Saint Bernard’s birthplace is the Swiss Alps.
- Male: 120–180 pounds; female: 100–160 pounds
- Years of lifetime: 8–10
- Temperament: mild, kind, and outstanding for families
- Appearance: Usually with a white foundation and brown or red markings, large, muscular frame with a short or long coat
Bernese Mountain Dog From Switzerland
- Size: 80-115 pounds (male), 70-95 pounds (female)
- Lifespan: 7-10 years
- Temperament: Peaceful affectionate, and highly social
- Look: Tri-colored coat (black, white, and rust), robust build, and a distinguishing welcoming expression
2. Temperament and Personality
Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are noted for their kind and tolerant demeanour. They are highly devoted and create close ties with their families. Despite their immense size, they are often regarded as “gentle giants.” They are terrific with children and other pets, making them excellent family dogs. However, their size can make them a bit awkward, so they may not be the greatest solution for households with extremely small children or fragile objects.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are equally devoted and loyal. They thrive on human company and are noted for their calm and easygoing nature. They are also great with kids and other animals, making them ideal for families. Bernese dogs are frequently more fun and energetic than Saint Bernards, which can make them a better fit for active households.
Read more: Bernese Mountain dog puppies Care: Essential Tips for Owners
Which suits you best?
If you prefer a more laid-back and compassionate companion, the Saint Bernard might be the best choice. If you want a dog that’s a bit more lively and social, the Bernese Mountain Dog could be the perfect choice. When comparing Saint Bernard vs. Bernese Mountain, it’s evident that both breeds thrive in distinct areas.
3. Exercise Needs
Saint Bernard dogs don’t do a lot of running about. They take pleasure in moderate exercise, like playing in a fenced yard or going for daily walks. However, because of their thick coats, they are prone to overheating; therefore, it’s best to keep them away from physically demanding activities, particularly during hot weather. They are more than glad to relax around the house with their family.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Because they are more active than Saint Bernards, Bernese Mountain Dogs need to exercise frequently to maintain their health and happiness. They like to play fetch and go hiking and walking. Like Saint Bernards, they too have thick coats and might overheat; thus, exercise should be reduced in warm weather.
Which suits you best?
If you’re searching for a low-energy dog that’s fine with minimal exercise, the Saint Bernard is a terrific choice. If you’re an energetic person who appreciates outdoor tasks, the Bernese Mountain Dog might be a better match. The Saint Bernard vs. Bernese Mountain dispute frequently boils down to activity levels.
4. Grooming Requirements
Saint Bernard
Depending on their coat length, Saint Bernards need to be regularly groomed. They shed heavily, especially over seasonal changes; therefore, frequent brushing is required to keep their coat healthy and decrease shedding.
They also drool quite a little, so be prepared to mop up spit periodically.
Bernese Mountain Dog
The thick double coat of Bernese Mountain Dogs necessitates regular care. They shed year-round, with increased shedding during seasonal fluctuations.
Regular brushing is necessary to prevent matting and keep their coat in good shape. They still need routine grooming care even though they don’t drool as much as Saint Bernards.
Which suits you best?
If you’re OK with frequent grooming and don’t mind a little saliva, the Saint Bernard is easy to handle. Bernese Mountain Dogs are a fantastic choice if you want a dog that doesn’t drool as much but is prepared to put in the effort to groom them frequently. When selecting Saint Bernard versus Bernese Mountain, grooming is a critical element to weigh.
5. Health Concerns
Saint Bernard
- Saint Bernards are prone to specific health conditions, including:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Heart difficulties
- Bloat (gastric torsion)
- Eye conditions
- Due to their huge size, they also have a shorter lifetime compared to lesser breeds.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are also prone to health problems, such as:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Cancer (increased risk compared to other breeds)
- Bloat
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Like Saint Bernards, they have a somewhat short lifespan due to their size.
Which suits you best?
Both breeds require frequent veterinary checkups and a nutritious diet to control potential health risks. If you’re prepared for the possibility of health difficulties, either breed can be a fantastic companion. The Saint Bernard vs. Bernese Mountain comparison reveals that both breeds have similar health risks.
6. Living Conditions
Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards can live in a variety of settings, but because of their size, they thrive in homes with lots of room. If they receive enough exercise, they can live in apartments, but a home with a yard is better. A cooler climate is better for them because they are sensitive to intense heat.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Additionally, Bernese Mountain Dogs require room to roam around and do best in homes with yards. Their thick coats make them more suited to colder regions. They are gregarious dogs and do not do well when left alone for long days.
Which suits you best?
You can use any breed if you have room for a huge dog and live in a cooler climate. However, if you live in a warmer climate, you’ll need to take extra care to keep your dog cool. The Saint Bernard versus Bernese Mountain selection typically hinges on your living environment.
7. Training and Socialization
Saint Bernard Saint Bernards are bright but can be stubborn, so regular and careful training is vital. Early socialization is vital to ensure they grow up to be well-behaved adults. They respond effectively to positive reinforcement strategies.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are eager to please and often easier to train than Saint Bernards. They also benefit from early socialization and respond strongly to positive reinforcement. Their pleasant nature makes them quick learners.
Which suits you best?
The Bernese Mountain Dog may be a better option if you’re a first-time dog owner or would rather have a dog that is easy to train. If you have experience with training and don’t mind a little stubbornness, the Saint Bernard is an excellent option. The Saint Bernard vs. Bernese Mountain comparison reveals that training styles differ between the two breeds.
8. Cost and Maintenance
- Saint Bernard Initial Cost: 1, 500 − 1,500−3,000
- Annual Maintenance: 1,200 − 1,200 − 1,800 (veterinary care, food, and grooming)
- The initial cost of a Bernese Mountain Dog was $1,000,000 to $1,500.
- Annual Maintenance: $1,000,000 − $1,500 (veterinary care, feeding, and grooming)
- Both breeds are costly to maintain due to their size and probable health risks.
Which suits you best?
If budget is a problem, the Bernese Mountain Dog can be slightly more affordable. However, both breeds require a large financial commitment. Expenses are an essential aspect when comparing Saint Bernard versus Bernese Mountain.
Conclusion: Which Breed Suits You Best?
In the end, your lifestyle, personal tastes, and capacity to care for them will determine whether you choose a Saint Bernard or a Bernese Mountain Dog. Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:
Choose a Saint Bernard if:
- You desire a peaceful, low-energy buddy.
- You have space for a huge dog.
- You don’t mind consistently grooming and drooling.
- Select a Bernese Mountain Dog if:
- You want a playful, social dog.
- You appreciate outdoor activities.
- You’re prepared for frequent grooming and possibly health risks.
Both breeds are caring and loyal and make ideal family dogs. You may make an informed choice and bring the ideal furry pet into your home by taking into account their differences and your lifestyle. The Saint Bernard vs. Bernese Mountain dispute is a tight one, but with this guide, you’ll be able to choose the breed that’s ideal for you.