Skip to content

Newfoundland vs st bernard

    The ultimate article about Newfoundland vs St Bernard

    When you think of a giant dog breed, you likely either think about Newfoundland or Saint Bernard. Both these dogs are extremely large and quite popular. Plus, they have been deemed to be more “gentle giants” with sweet and serene personalities.

    If you are thinking about adopting either of the dogs, you are likely to wind up wondering what the differences between these two giant breeds. While they look quite different on the surface, they’re probably more similar than you first imagined. We are going to take a look at the few things that separate these two dog breeds within this article so that you may pick the best one for your lifestyle.

    Small Overview of St Bernards

    Saint Bernards got their name from the place they found, The Great Saint Bernard Hospice on the Italian-Swiss border.

    Monks had developed the most cold-resistant, powerful, giant dog breed out of necessity.

    These dogs rescued travelers in need over the pass to Rome. Centuries later they were widely popular farming dogs, exceptional at herding and guarding farm animals against the threat.

    From pulling somebody from this snow with the avalanche to herding sheep, St Bernards are great working dogs.

    The Kennel Club (AKC) describes Saint Bernards as “playful, enchanting, and curious”.

    Small Overview of Newfoundlands

    Newfoundlands, or Newfies, had their beginning from the North Atlantic because of the supreme fisherman’s companion.

    Their lung capacity, waterproof coat, and webbed feet are fantastic for swimming.

    Dubbed the “most extreme water-dog on Earth”, they are able to haul heavy fishing baits to shore, swim long distances, and help a drowning person.

    A Newfie was a part of Lewis and Clark’s trip and is still admired because of his heroism for chasing away an upset buffalo along with other heroic actions.

    The three words the AKC uses to explain Newfoundlands are both “sweet, patient, and also committed”. We can attest to those descriptors.

    We’ve found toddlers ride Newfoundland dogs like horses as the dogs wagged their tails happily.

    St Bernard vs Newfoundland. History

    To determine what drives a dog breed to act as they do, then you will need to understand their history. The ideal location to start this research would be back once these were designed. Once you know what these were designed to do, be it work hard or to look pretty. You will know what to expect of them in your home.

    Saint Bernard

    Saint Bernard is another dog breed having a mythical history. Named after their workplace, the Great Saint Bernard Hospice, which is situated on the Italian-Swiss border. Fabled for rescuing travelers in trouble and yanking them out of snow, they’re a renowned puppy dog breed. Because of their loveable personalities and fluffy good appearances, they tend to be in contrast to other giant dog breeds. Some favorite comparisons comprise the Bernese Mountain Dog, or contrary to the English Mastiff.

    It’s said as a rescue dog, Saint Bernard has saved the lives of as many as 2,000 men. This is attributed to his sensitive and affectionate temperament. Becoming calm and unphased by strangers or tough scenarios, Saint Bernard has found a brand new profession for being a therapy dog.

    Newfoundland dog

    It’s stated that Newfoundland is the water-borne comparative of Saint Bernard. Although perhaps not genetically related, they hold exactly the exact same rescuing prowess as Bernard. Newfies were working dogs bred to earn their keep by pulling fishing baits to shore and pulling the cart with the day’s catch to market. Fishermen relied on Newfies to be daring working dogs who may save men from freezing waters also.

    Even though Newfies’s livelihood for a boat hand is long gone, they continue to be prolific water rescue dogs. As well as popular and cherished family companions and guardians. Good together with adults, children, and other animals alike, they produce a great family friend that’s devoted to a fault and extremely caring. For these loyal and loving characters, they have been usually in contrast to Labradors, Golden Retrievers, along with some other family-friendly giant dog breeds.

    St Bernard vs Newfoundland. Appearance

    Saint Bernard

    Saint Bernards are a powerful and imposing dog breed.

    The man stands 27.5 inches at the shoulder at least. Saint Bernards weigh in at between 120 to 180 pounds. Females are somewhat smaller, even although they are still fairly strong. Males can weigh no more than 180 pounds, though females are a bit smaller overall.

    They have relatively large heads and also a small muzzle. Their forehead is wrinkled, plus so they generally have darker eyes. They have been very intelligent and possess an amiable expression.

    Newfoundland dog

    These dogs can weigh as much as 150 pounds, with males being considerably larger than females. They endure at 28 inches. Again, females are going to become much shorter compared to males. Their head is so enormous, but their expression is often light and “lazy”. Their outer coat is flat and coarse, but their inner coat is quite soft.

    If they shed, they will mostly be losing their inner coat. Their colors range from grey to brown. Their most well-known coat layout is black-and-white. This coat pattern has been popularized by Sir Edwin Landseer, who often painted them within this coloration.

    Both dogs are giant breeds. Something to note is that dogs are large enough to knock things over, including kids. If your living area is small, you may want to rethink having a large-breed dog. In the same way, should you drive a little car, you’re going to wish to consider what travel will be enjoyed along with your friendly giant. That said, Newfoundlands are more suited to Saint Bernards for city living and smaller homes because of the low activity needs.

    Newfoundland vs St Bernard. Temperament

    Saint Bernard

    Saint Bernard would stay next to his humans, inquisitive eyes surveying the scene. Saint Bernards which we have met are very sensitive and tuned in for their humans, always ensuring they are safe and happy.

    Saint Bernards require an average amount of exercise and activity. Saint Bernards has been bred to become from the snow.

    Newfoundland dog

    We’d expect that Newfoundland to greet every human in the area one by one.

    When approached, however, both dogs could welcome the attention with the same gentle sweetness.

    They either may bark whenever they comprehend the impending danger. Newfoundlands might be slightly more inclined to bark than Saint Bernards. Newfoundlands require low action, these dogs were bred to swim.

    They both, but have a low tolerance for heat as a result of their thick undercoats.

    Summer weather that we enjoy can be excruciating for them and may possibly result in heat exhaustion. Special care has to be given to ensure they stay cool.

    Where you live and the actions you like may be the deciding factor between the two giant breeds.

    Newfoundland vs St Bernard. Grooming

    Saint Bernard

    Saint Bernards are in two types long-lived and short-haired. Each version needs a different amount of grooming. For both variants, a weekly brushing session will soon be necessary to keep your dog clean. This may remove dirt and loose hair. In case you groom your St. Bernard frequently, then you won’t have to worry about bathing your puppy as frequently. Tangles will need to be removed using a slicker brush or metal comb.

    Long-haired varieties tend to be more susceptible to matting than short-haired dogs. Nevertheless, as long as you brush all of the tangles at least once a week, you usually do not have to worry about mats that much.

    The dogs will probably shed more than twice annually whenever they “blow off their coats”. Over those phases, you will more than likely have to increase brushing to once per day. You will need to cut back their nails to stop overgrown nails, which can lead to walking problems and also be quite painful.

    Newfoundland dog

    These dogs need cleaning at least once a week. They do not shed regularly but may blow their coat seasonally when they need more brushing than average. They need thorough grooming with a slicker brush and a long-toothed comb. This may prevent mats from forming and help keep them clean. If you keep this dog brushed, you will not need to bathe them very often in the least.

    Spayed and neutered Newfoundlands shed more than their counterparts. Often, they need to be brushed out a few times a week at least. As with all breeds, their nails should be trimmed regularly.

    Because both dogs are shedders, neither is suggested for somebody who has pet dander allergies.

    Both dogs drool too. Within our experience, hugging either will lead to wet sleeves.

    Intend in your home having searing marks everything below two feet in your house, including your walls. It is also possible to expect a “splash zone” across the dog bowl.

    Everyone else I know that’s a Newfoundland or Saint Bernard keeps hand towels anywhere to dab drooly lips and clean up the presents they leave behind. On the reverse side, this quality can be quite comedic.

    If you are keen on an immaculately clean house, it is going to soon be unachievable with either of these breeds.

    Newfoundland vs St Bernard. Training

    St Bernard

    Saint Bernards are somewhat only a bit more reserved and stubborn when it comes to training, so it’s quite important to begin their training and socialization early.

    Obedience training helps them learn to not knock people over or throw food out of the table. These dogs are usually kind-hearted and eager to work with their people. They respond to commands once they know what you’re asking them to complete.

    But these dogs love their family, so they may occasionally act outside if they don’t get enough care.

    Newfoundland dog

    Both dogs have been famous for being family-friendly working dogs and great with kids, but Newfoundland is far more inclined to be better with other dogs and also start to become marginally easier to train. Newfoundlands are extremely trainable and respond wonderfully to positive reinforcement training.

    They both love people and also don’t enjoy being alone. Without proper training and confidence, either may have problems with separation anxiety.

    Newfoundland vs St Bernard. Exercises

    St Bernard

    These dogs need a significant bit of exercise, even though their size. They are frequently characterized as being idle, but this doesn’t fit their personality very well at least. They do best with at least one or two hours of exercise a day. Longer hikes and backpacking are unexpectedly recommended, since this breed likes to proceed, especially when their owners may take place.

    These dogs can also pull children in carts and often enjoy carting and drafting. They are happy to perform activities using their owners. Simply take them to whatever physical activity you like doing.

    Newfoundland dog

    Newfoundland is multi-purposed. He had been forced to work with land and in water. However, he’s not that energetic. The average Newfoundland only needs an hour or so of exercise every day. Still, they can take part in outdoor tasks if given an opportunity. Most of these rather enjoy long walks and lifts, as well as swimming.

    All these dogs may participate in design and carting competitions. And all of these dogs also like agility, pier jumping, flyball, herding, obedience, and tracking.

    Newfoundland vs St Bernard. Lifespan

    St Bernard

    Saint Bernards have an average lifespan between eight to ten years.

    Newfoundland dog

    Newfoundlands have an average lifespan between nine and ten years.

    All extra large dogs have a shorter than average lifespan, and that’s something you shouldn’t think about lightly.

    Newfoundland vs St Bernard. Health

    Saint Bernard and Newfoundland dogs are susceptible to structural issues. The enormous weight in their joints can cause hip or elbow dysplasia and rectal problems.

    It’s important with both dog breeds to keep them at a lean, healthy weight and to never exercise them strenuously.

    In their older ages, intend on extra care and vet expenses to keep them more comfortable.

    Newfoundlands and Saint Bernards both do well on high-quality foods, notably ones that are geared toward large-breed dogs.

    They are able to both suffer from migraines, a life-threatening condition, so smaller meals should be given throughout your afternoon rather than at one time.

    Because they have floppy ears, so they should be checked regularly for any indication of irritation or infection. Both dogs need to have dysplasia and cardiac tests.

    St Bernard

    Saint Bernards specifically should have a DNA test for degenerative myelopathy (a disorder that leads to lack of coordination) and also an ophthalmologist evaluation.

    Newfoundland dog

    Vets recommend that Newfoundlands get yourself a Cystinuria DNA test (to check for a disorder that can lead to kidney and bladder stones).

    Saint Bernard vs Newfoundland. Breed Availability

    Finding a Newfoundland or perhaps a Saint Bernard, according to your geographical area may possibly involve some traveling. They are less common than other forms.

    The Newfoundland maybe your 36th most popular breed, also Saint Bernard may be the 48th, as stated by the American Kennel Club. Therefore, Saint Bernard might be marginally harder to find.

    Searching local shelters is my first recommendation when you are trying to add a pet into the family.

    Extralarge breeds can end up in shelters because they require more care and are more expensive to look after.

    If you are interested in finding a puppy or can’t locate a dog of your favorite breed in a shelter, you can think about buying a dog from a breeder.

    Please be certain your breeder is reputable by asking for references, meeting the breeding pair, and attentively observing the conditions that the dog is still in.

    You should also ensure the parents of all the puppies have been tested for genetic diseases.

    Buyer beware if anybody attempting to sell pets really wants to meet you in a parking lot or doesn’t research you as a possible pet owner.

    If you are concerned about the price of adopting or buying a Newfoundland or even a Saint Bernard, they’re perhaps not the dogs for you personally.

    The cost of purchasing them is nothing compared to the costs of maintaining them.

    Saint Bernard vs Newfoundland. Running Costs

    Extra-large dogs are some of the most expensive dogs that you can possess, comparable to buying a new vehicle!

    Costs to consider might include grooming, cleaning products for the home, extra large pet provides that will be more expensive, joint health vitamins, vet bills, operations, and also extra costs through the older years.

    Saint Bernard vs Newfoundland. Activity Level

    Newfoundland giant dog features a significantly lower activity level when comparing to Saint Bernard. If you never exercise a Newfoundland one day, he probably isn’t going to rip up your house. They have been far more low-energy dogs, though they can step up and move on hikes and more walks if you ask.

    On the flip side, St. Bernards are much more energetic. They need a very long walk every day and will flourish on collapses and other higher-energy pursuits. If you don’t exercise a St. Bernard, they can receive rambunctiously and will become trouble. Leaving a St. Bernard on your own home all day is not possible. They’ll get into things and mess up your house.

    This really is among the very significant differences between them. If you need a decrease energy dog, don’t obtain yourself a St. Bernard. They are not suitable for low-energy families.

    Additional Questions

    Saint Bernard

    1. Are Saint Bernards good guard dogs?

    With awesome strength, striking smarts, and a gentle spirit, Saint Bernard will be the ultimate family guard dog. They have been both loyal and adoring and unfaltering in their protective nature toward their families, notably kids.

    2. Are St Bernards bigger than Bernese mountain dogs?

    While these two dogs are large, St. Bernard is only just a bit larger. St. Bernards stand anywhere between 26 and 30 inches at the shoulder, based on gender. The Bernese mountain dog stands 2-3 to 27.5 inches at the shoulder depending on gender and could consider to 115 pounds.

    3. Do Saint Bernards bite?

    How much mouthing, nipping, play biting does that St. Bernard do? St. Bernards have a minimal propensity to nip, chew, play-bite, or even herd people. It’s really a frequent habit during puppyhood, maybe not aggressive behavior.

    4. Is Saint Bernard aggressive?

    Saint Bernards commonly are not too aggressive. As an alternative, they are mostly calm, gentle, and friendly. They are famous for being more loving and tolerant, regardless of their size, and also are a good choice as a family dog as they do well with children.

    5. Do St Bernards bark a lot?

    Saint Bernards aren’t known for barking without reason. Saint Bernards really are a short-lived breed, usually just 8 to 10 years. Saint Bernard should not live away from his family.

    All dogs do better if they are inside your home with all your family they love, and also Saint Bernard isn’t any exception.

    6. Is Saint Bernard good for first-time owners?

    Saint Bernards do not attack their owners any more than other breeds. The mistake people make with giant dogs will be no training or socializing them. Saint Bernards don’t attack their owners any more than other breeds. Having said that, English Mastiffs might make a good first dog if you’re enthusiastic about training.

    7. Are St Bernards smart?

    Saint Bernards are gentle giants. They are patient and calm, with an eagerness to please. This easy-going temperament makes the dog a great selection for a family pet. They’re very intelligent, so training is simple, however, it is important to begin at a young age while they’re still small and simple to get a handle on.

    8. Are St Bernard’s High Maintenance?

    Many people can’t look after a Saint Bernard, though it has some distinctive needs and habits which allow it to be a high-care pet than many other dogs. As an example, unlike some huge breeds, Saint Bernard tolerates outdoor living poorly and wants continuous support and human attention.

    9. What to Know Before Getting a St Bernard?

    All Saint Bernards desire space and also deserve a roomy home with a spacious fenced yard in the suburbs or country. This breed needs daily exercise (if he generally seems to want it or not) to remain fit, but long daily walks can do, along with routine chances to stretch out and lope around.

    10. Are St Bernards expensive?

    Costing an average of $1,500 to buy, the calm and patient temperament of Saint Bernard makes it well suited for families or as a show dog. Medical expenses are the main reason Saint Bernards are such costly dogs, together with potential health care costs hovering at approximately $8,600.

    Newfoundland

    1. Are Newfoundland dogs smelly?

    It’s especially crucial to groom thoroughly across your ears and under the tail where stool can collect from the long coat. Newfies may smell if not they are not bathed and dressed regularly.

    2. Do Newfoundlands bark a lot?

    Newfies are very capable of barking and can be loud whenever they perform it. Lots do it for reasons or for no reason in any way. He also barks at him and nothing barks whatsoever. He traces at critters, dogs biting 5 miles away when he wants to be fed when he would like to be petted when he wants to really go for a walk.

    3. Are Newfoundland dogs intelligent?

    Newfoundland’s gentle and intelligent expression reflects its own amiability and friendliness toward humans. It is regarded as one of the very most intelligent dog breeds, as such, it’s easily trained and appreciates the process of working with humans. As family dogs proceed, the Newfoundland breed is at the very best.

    4. What is the biggest Newfoundland dog?

    Runners up, Newfoundland. Some Newfoundland dogs have been known to weigh more than 200 pounds. The largest Newfoundland on record weighed 260 pounds and quantified over 6 feet from nose to tail.

    5. Will a Newfoundland dog protect me?

    Have you ever wondered if your Newfoundland would protect you from being harmed by an intruder?

    Newfoundlands are not famous if you are watchdogs or guard dogs but due to the strong bond that they have with their owners, they can be very protective of their own family.

    6. Do Newfoundlands sleep a lot?

    Newfoundland dogs sleep much compared to humans although not necessarily more than several other breeds of dogs. They will sleep more at different stages of life however, they definitely shouldn’t be sleeping that the entire day away. They should be provided with plenty of physical and mental stimulation during their day.

    7. Which is a bigger Newfoundland or Bernese mountain dog?

    The Bernese Mountain Dog can be actually just a sturdy and ardently built large dog. Males weigh between 80 and 115 pounds and stand between 25 and 27.5 inches tall at the shoulder. Females are 70 to 95 pounds in weight and also endure between 23 and 26 inches tall. Newfoundlands are massive, strong dogs.

    8. Is St Bernard or Newfoundland better?

    Saint Bernard Versus Newfoundland Training. Both dogs are famous for being family-friendly working dogs and great with kids, but Newfoundland is far much more inclined to be better along with other dogs and also start to become marginally less difficult to train.

    9. Are male or female Newfoundlands better?

    There is no changing the fact that Newfoundlands are generally great companies to have around, but if you should be looking for more playfulness, sociability, and activeness, then you should go with a male. If you’d like easier trainability and more calmness around the house, go with a female.

    10. Should I get a Newfoundland?

    Their inherent swimming abilities, muscle build, dual coat, along webbed feet make them a perfect water companion. Now, Newfies are usually trained to function as warm water rescue dogs. You enjoy grooming dogs. If you find grooming dogs to be therapeutic, Newfoundland might be the perfect breed for you.

    11. Which Breed is Right for You?

    If you’re searching to get a big dog, then you can’t get much bigger than a Newfoundland or St. Bernard. Both these dogs are rather like each other. The major distinction is that St. Bernard can be somewhat more lively, while Newfoundland can be somewhat simpler to train.

    Final Review

    Saint Bernards and Newfoundlands are both huge friendly giants.

    If you’re seeking a loyal companion that remains from the side and loves the snow, then a Saint Bernard might be the dog breed for you.

    If you’d like a sweet, serene dog that you can take into the lake, then the Newfoundland may be the one.

    Both of them are great dogs and that we don’t think you’ve ever passed up a chance to say hello to them both because they have an enormous presence and enormous hearts.

    By doing your own research on these giant breeds, you’ve made an enormous step prior to making an informed decision for the home!