Saint Bernard vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Saint Bernard and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Saint Bernard
Gentle, massive, and incredibly patient, this breed thrives as a loyal family companion. Famous for its rescue history, it brings warmth and calm to any home.
Labrador Retriever
Eager, friendly, and intelligent, this breed loves being part of an active family. Their gentle nature and loyalty make them outstanding companions for all ages.
Quick comparison
Large
64–82 kg
Dense double coat, straight or slightly wavy
8–10 years
54–72 kg
Low activity needs
Large
29–36 kg
Short double coat, water-resistant
10–12 years
25–32 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Saint Bernard
Gentle and welcoming with family and strangers
Learns commands with patience and consistency
Prefers calm activities over vigorous exercise
Enjoys interactive play but not overly boisterous
Adjusts well to different home environments
Labrador Retriever
Warm and sociable with people and animals
Quick learner, responds well to training
High stamina, enjoys active pursuits daily
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts easily to new situations and environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Saint Bernard
Hip dysplasia, bloat
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Saint Bernard
Manageable with guidance
Needs patient training and large-breed management experience
Not ideal
Large size and exercise needs make small spaces challenging
Moderately suitable
Enjoys activity but prefers moderate exercise over intense workouts
Great choice
Gentle, patient temperament is well-suited for young children
Generally compatible
Usually sociable but may be overwhelming for smaller pets
Not recommended
Dislikes being alone and prone to separation anxiety
Labrador Retriever
Great choice
Patient and eager to please, Labradors are manageable for most first-time owners.
Not ideal
Labradors need space and exercise, so apartments can limit their activity needs.
Perfect fit
High energy and stamina make them excellent for active individuals or families.
Highly suitable
Gentle temperament and playful nature make them safe and loving with young children.
Very friendly
Generally sociable and get along well with other dogs and pets.
Prone to anxiety
Extended alone time can lead to boredom and destructive behaviors in this breed.
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Saint Bernard
- Gentle and patient with children
- Highly loyal to their family
- Calm and tolerant temperament
- Strong instinct to protect home
- Tolerant of cold weather conditions
Labrador Retriever
- Friendly and sociable with people and dogs
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Excellent with children and families
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
- Generally adaptable to various living situations
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Saint Bernard
- Prone to excessive drooling
- High risk of hip and elbow dysplasia
- Shorter average lifespan than many breeds
- Needs ample space due to large size
- Can be difficult to train due to stubbornness
Labrador Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- Can become destructive if under-exercised
- Heavy seasonal shedding requires regular grooming
- May develop hip or elbow dysplasia
- Needs significant daily physical activity
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