Newfoundland vs Saint Bernard
Overview
Newfoundland vs Saint Bernard: The Quick Answer
Both are giant breeds with reputations as 'nanny dogs' - notably patient with children and gentle by breed temperament. Both were bred for rescue work in extreme environments. The decisive differences: Newfoundland is the water specialist (bred for ocean rescue, exceptional swimmer, loves water), Saint Bernard is the snow specialist (bred for Alpine rescue, poor swimmer, prefers cold weather), and drool levels differ significantly (Saint drools constantly; Newfoundland is moderate).
Choice often comes down to whether your household lifestyle includes water (lake house, beach, regular swimming) - Newfoundland's water orientation is a major asset in those settings. For purely land-based households, Saint Bernard's calmer temperament and lower exercise needs may suit better, as long as you accept the drool reality.
Personality
Temperament: Two Gentle Giants
Newfoundland: 'sweet of nature, soft of soul'
The Newfoundland breed standard explicitly describes 'sweetness of temperament' as a defining trait. Modern Newfies are notably patient with children, gentle with other dogs and pets, and slow to anger. Energy level is moderate - they enjoy outdoor activities and swimming but are content with moderate daily exercise. The breed is famously eager to please and highly trainable.
Saint Bernard: calm, patient, quieter
Saint Bernards are notably calm and slow-paced. They tend to be quieter than Newfoundlands - less barking, less activity around the house, more time spent lounging on cool floors. Patience with children is extraordinary - Saints often tolerate roughness from toddlers that other breeds would find irritating. Independence is slightly higher than Newfoundland; Saints are loyal but less demonstratively affectionate.
Health
Health: Different Cardiac Risks
Newfoundland main risks
Subaortic stenosis (SAS) is the breed-defining cardiac concern - affecting approximately 5-10% of Newfoundlands. Annual cardiac screening by a veterinary cardiologist from puppyhood is recommended. Cystinuria (kidney stone formation from amino acid metabolism issue) at elevated rates - DNA testable. Hip and elbow dysplasia. Bloat/GDV.
Saint Bernard main risks
Hip and elbow dysplasia at very high rates (size-driven). Bloat/GDV elevated. Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in some lines. Entropion and ectropion (eyelid abnormalities) requiring surgical correction in many individuals. Osteosarcoma rates somewhat elevated due to size.
Cost
Cost: Similar Range
| Attribute | Newfoundland | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy (reputable) | $1,500-$3,500 | $1,500-$3,500 |
| First-year total | $5,000-$8,500 | $5,500-$10,000 |
| Annual ongoing | $2,800-$4,500 | $2,800-$5,000 |
| Food (giant breed) | $1,000-$1,800/yr | $1,200-$2,000/yr |
| Pet insurance | $700-$1,400/yr | $800-$1,500/yr |
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is heavier, Newfoundland or Saint Bernard? +
Saint Bernard, typically. Adult Saint males regularly hit 150-180 lbs; Newfoundland males typically max around 130-150 lbs. Both are large enough that the weight difference affects daily reality (vehicle selection, lifting onto exam tables, medication doses) but isn't dramatic. Females of both breeds are 20-30% smaller than males.
Do Newfoundlands actually rescue people from drowning? +
Yes. The breed is still used in active water rescue training (notably in Italy with the Italian School of Water Rescue Dogs) and modern Newfies have made documented rescues. The instinct is genetic - puppies as young as 4 months will swim toward struggling swimmers. The breed's webbed feet, water-resistant coat, and powerful swimming musculature are real physical adaptations. Not all Newfies will reliably perform rescue work without training, but the underlying behavior is breed-typical.
Which drools more? +
Saint Bernard, by a clear margin. Saints have heavy jowls (flews) that trap saliva and dispense it constantly. Newfoundland drool is moderate - noticeable after eating and drinking but not the constant baseline reality of Saint ownership. If drool is a deal-breaker, Newfoundland is the better choice between these two giants.
Can either breed live in an apartment? +
Both are challenging in apartments, but Saint Bernard handles smaller spaces slightly better due to lower energy. The combined factors of size (100-180 lbs), heavy shedding, and daily exercise needs make both breeds genuinely difficult for apartment life. If you're committed to a giant breed in an apartment, plan for: (a) multiple daily walks regardless of weather, (b) a vacuum cleaner running daily, (c) a vehicle capable of transporting the dog comfortably, (d) downstairs neighbors tolerant of footstep impact.
What about Leonberger as a related alternative? +
Worth considering. The Leonberger was deliberately bred (in Germany) to combine traits of Newfoundland, Saint Bernard, and Great Pyrenees - so it offers a middle-ground temperament between Newfie's water orientation and Saint's calm. Leonbergers are similar size, have a similar 'gentle giant' reputation, and live 8-10 years similarly. The downside: rarer breed, fewer reputable breeders in North America, higher puppy cost.
