NewfoundlandVSSaint Bernard

The Newfoundland is known for being sweet, patient, devoted, 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.

The Newfoundland is a giant breed standing 63–74 cm (25–29 in) tall and weighing 45–70 kg (99–154 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 Newfoundland's smaller frame makes it easier to handle and transport.

The Newfoundland has a long coat available in black, brown, gray, Landseer, 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 Newfoundland has low energy (2/5) with moderate exercise needs (3/5). The Saint Bernard has low energy (2/5) and low exercise needs (2/5).

The Newfoundland 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.

When it comes to shedding, the Newfoundland drops more fur with a shedding level of 5/5, while the Saint Bernard is lighter at 4/5. If pet hair on furniture is a concern, the Saint Bernard will be easier to live with.

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

Annual grooming costs average around $300 for the Newfoundland and $200 for the Saint Bernard. Factor this into your budget when deciding between the two.

The Newfoundland has a lifespan of 8–10 years, while the Saint Bernard lives 8–10 years. Both breeds have comparable lifespans.

In terms of overall health robustness, the Newfoundland scores 2/5 compared to the Saint Bernard's 1/5. The Newfoundland is generally a hardier breed with fewer genetic health concerns.

Common health issues for the Newfoundland include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cystinuria, subvalvular aortic stenosis. 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 $700 for the Newfoundland and $700 for the Saint Bernard. Pet insurance is worth considering for either breed.

The Newfoundland 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 Newfoundland ranks higher in intelligence (4/5 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 Newfoundland outranks the Saint Bernard with a score of 4/5 compared to 3/5. The Newfoundland 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 Newfoundland'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.

Both breeds score 5/5 with children, making them equally suitable for families. Either breed can be a wonderful addition to a household with kids.

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

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

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

Ongoing annual costs (food, vet, grooming) come to approximately $2,080 for the Newfoundland and $2,100 for the Saint Bernard. The Saint Bernard costs more annually, largely because of higher food costs.

Monthly food costs run about $90 for the Newfoundland 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.