Black Russian TerrierVSSaint Bernard

The Black Russian Terrier is known for being confident, powerful, calm, while the Saint Bernard is typically described as gentle, friendly, patient. These distinct personality traits mean each breed offers a different kind of companionship.

Both breeds share a similar playfulness level at 3/5, so you can expect comparable levels of fun and games from either one.

Noise-wise, the Black Russian Terrier is more vocal with a barking level of 3/5, while the Saint Bernard is quieter at 2/5. If you prefer a calmer household, the Saint Bernard may be the better choice.

The Black Russian Terrier is a giant breed standing 64–76 cm (25–30 in) tall and weighing 36–68 kg (79–150 lbs). In comparison, the Saint Bernard is a giant breed at 65–90 cm (26–35 in) and 54–82 kg (119–181 lbs).

There's a significant size difference between these two breeds. The Saint Bernard is considerably heavier, which means higher food costs and the need for more physical space. The Black Russian Terrier's smaller frame makes it easier to handle and transport.

The Black Russian Terrier has a wiry coat available in black, black with gray hairs, while the Saint Bernard sports a medium coat in red and white, brindle and white. Coat type significantly impacts grooming needs and shedding, which we cover below.

The Black Russian Terrier has moderate energy (3/5) with high exercise needs (4/5). The Saint Bernard has low energy (2/5) and low exercise needs (2/5).

The Black Russian Terrier requires more daily activity to stay happy and healthy. Without enough exercise, they may develop destructive behaviors. The Saint Bernard is more adaptable and can get by with shorter walks and play sessions.

The Saint Bernard sheds more than the Black Russian Terrier — 4/5 versus 2/5. You'll want to invest in a good lint roller and vacuum if you go with the Saint Bernard.

The Black Russian Terrier demands more grooming attention with a score of 4/5, while the Saint Bernard is lower-maintenance at 3/5. The Black Russian Terrier's wiry coat requires regular brushing and professional grooming sessions, adding to the overall cost of ownership.

Annual grooming costs average around $400 for the Black Russian Terrier and $200 for the Saint Bernard. Factor this into your budget when deciding between the two.

The Black Russian Terrier has a lifespan of 10–12 years, while the Saint Bernard lives 8–10 years. The Black Russian Terrier tends to live longer on average.

In terms of overall health robustness, the Black Russian Terrier scores 3/5 compared to the Saint Bernard's 1/5. The Black Russian Terrier is generally a hardier breed with fewer genetic health concerns.

Common health issues for the Black Russian Terrier include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hyperuricosuria, progressive retinal atrophy. The Saint Bernard is prone to hip dysplasia, bloat, osteosarcoma, dilated cardiomyopathy. Regular vet checkups and health screenings are essential for both breeds.

Annual vet costs average $600 for the Black Russian Terrier and $700 for the Saint Bernard. Pet insurance is worth considering for either breed.

The Black Russian Terrier is easier to train with a trainability score of 4/5, making it more suitable for first-time dog owners. The Saint Bernard scores 3/5 and may require more patience and experience during training sessions.

The Black Russian Terrier ranks higher in intelligence (5/5 vs 3/5), which can be both a blessing and a challenge. Smarter dogs learn commands faster but also get bored more easily and may develop behavioral issues without mental stimulation.

Regardless of which breed you choose, early socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training are key to raising a well-behaved dog. Puppy classes are a great investment for either breed.

In terms of raw intelligence, the Black Russian Terrier outranks the Saint Bernard with a score of 5/5 compared to 3/5. The Black Russian Terrier tends to learn new commands in fewer repetitions and shows stronger problem-solving ability in novel situations. However, higher intelligence doesn't always mean an easier dog to own — smarter breeds often demand more mental stimulation to avoid boredom-driven destructive behavior.

Both breeds share a similar intelligence profile rooted in working intelligence. They both excel when given structured tasks and thrive in obedience, agility, or service work.

The Black Russian Terrier's higher intelligence translates directly into better trainability (4/5 vs 3/5), making them both the quicker learner and the easier breed to train. This combination is ideal for owners who want a responsive, obedient companion.

For either breed, mental enrichment is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle feeders, training sessions, scent work, and interactive toys keep intelligent dogs engaged and prevent the boredom that leads to chewing, digging, or excessive barking.

The Saint Bernard edges ahead as a family dog, scoring 5/5 with children versus the Black Russian Terrier's 4/5. The Saint Bernard's gentle temperament makes it especially patient around kids.

If you have other pets, the Saint Bernard tends to get along better with other dogs (4/5) than the Black Russian Terrier (3/5). Proper introductions are still important, but the Saint Bernard is naturally more sociable with canine companions.

The Saint Bernard is more welcoming to strangers (4/5), while the Black Russian Terrier tends to be more reserved (2/5). If you frequently have guests, the Saint Bernard's sociable nature will make entertaining easier.

The initial purchase price for a Black Russian Terrier ranges from $1,800–$3,500, while a Saint Bernard typically costs $1,000–$3,000. The Black Russian Terrier has a higher upfront cost.

Ongoing annual costs (food, vet, grooming) come to approximately $1,960 for the Black Russian Terrier and $2,100 for the Saint Bernard. The Saint Bernard costs more annually, largely because of higher food costs.

Monthly food costs run about $80 for the Black Russian Terrier and $100 for the Saint Bernard. Over a typical lifespan, the total cost of ownership can differ by thousands of dollars, so it's worth factoring in the long-term financial commitment.