Trying to add a new giant dog breed to your family, but aren’t sure which one to pick? Nailed down your two choices to the Newfoundland vs. the Saint Bernard? These to magnificently giant breeds have some striking resemblances, but are completely different breeds, with very different personalities. In fact, because of their similarities, Saint Bernards and Newfies are sometimes crossbred in an effort by dog owners to get the best of both worlds.
The Newfoundland, or ‘Newfie’ for short, is a big dog that bears more than a passing resemblance to a St Bernard. They are a similar height and weight, and they walk in the same slow-time fashion. Saint Bernards, on the other hand, are known to be excellent watchdogs and family companions. But is there more to it than that?
In this breed comparison guide, we compare these two gentle giants in great detail. We’ll look at facts about their history, personalities, feeding routines, and exercise schedules. So, if you’re here because you are torn between these two gentle giant breeds, then look no further. We will deliver all of the doggy knowledge you need to make what might be one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Let’s jump in!
Breed Comparison
Newfoundland
- Height 24-28 Inches
- Weight 120-180 Pounds
- Temperament Sweet, Patient, Devoted
- Energy Medium
- Health Average
- Lifespan 8-10 Years
- Price $1,500 and Up
Saint Bernard
- Height 26-30 Inches
- Weight 120-180 Pounds
- Temperament Playful, Charming, Inquisitive
- Energy Medium
- Health Average
- Lifespan 8-10 Years
- Price $1,500 and Up
Breed History
To understand what drives a dog breed to act as they do, you need to understand their history. The best place to start this research is back when they were first designed. When you know what they were intended to do, be it work hard or to look pretty. You will know what to expect of them in your home.
Newfoundland
It is said that the Newfoundland is the waterborne relative of the Saint Bernard. Although not genetically related, they possess the same rescuing prowess as the Bernard. Newfies were working dogs bred to earn their keep by pulling fishing nets to shore and pulling the cart with the day’s catch to market. Fisherman relied on Newfies to be fearless working dogs that could save men from icy waters too.
Although the Newfies career as ship hand is long gone, they are still prolific water rescue dogs. As well as popular and beloved family companions and guardians. Good with adults, children, and other animals alike, they make a fantastic family friend that is loyal to a fault and very caring. Because of their loyalty and loving nature, they are often compared to Labradors, Golden Retrievers, or other family-friendly giant dog breeds.
Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is another dog with a legendary history. Named after their workplace, the Great Saint Bernard Hospice, which is located on the Italian-Swiss border. Famous for rescuing travelers in trouble and pulling them from snow, they are a renowned canine breed. Because of their loveable personalities and fluffy good looks, they are often compared to other giant dog breeds. Some popular comparisons include the Bernese Mountain Dog, or against the English Mastiff.
It is said that as a rescue dog, the Saint Bernard has saved the lives of as many as 2,000 men. This is attributed to his sensitive and caring temperament. Being calm and unphased by strangers or tough situations, the Saint Bernard has now found a new profession as a therapy dog.
Appearance
The Saint Bernard is easily identified, and most people will know the breed. The Newfoundland, on the other hand, isn’t quite so easily recognized. The Bernard is an easy to spot tri-color dog, and the Newfie comes in mainly block colors. Such as gray, brown, black, and the odd black-and-white. They both have a thick double-layer coat that is very soft to the touch.
When it comes to their weight, these two are very similar. The Bernard can range from 120 to a whopping 180 pounds. The Newfie is no lightweight either, ranging from 100 to 150 pounds. There is little difference between their height, too, with the Newfie standing at 26 to 28 inches and the Bernard at 26 to 30 inches.
Both dogs have a big head that is wide and square, with the Newfie having a slightly more slender snout compared to the Bernard’s square and stubby muzzle. Both breeds have large feet as well but for different reasons. The Bernard’s give a greater surface area for better grip in the snow, like a snowshoe. The Newfie has large feet that are webbed, aiding them in their waterborne abilities.
They both have big, heavy tails as well, that act as a counterbalance for the Saint Bernard in snow and ice and as a rudder for the Newfie. In both cases, it’s a great tool for knocking over drinks and young children, so be sure to supervise them with kids about.
Temperament
These big boy breeds are very similar in most aspects, with just a few minor differences. Firstly, they are both magnificent companion dogs that love people. Cuddly with adults, sweet and gentle with kids, and extra loving and cuddly with their immediate pack members. Both these doggos love family life and like to stay close to the pack. As such, their wanderlust tendencies to go and explore aren’t very strong.
Both will be keen to protect their family at the first sign of danger. The Bernard will stay with the family and supervise the situation. Whereas the Newfie will be quick to get vocal to get the message across that he’s there, and he means business. They are both gentle giants until his family is in danger.
They are very loyal and attentive to their families and laid back when it comes to other animals in the house. Both Breeds have a low prey drive meaning they will be less than interested in cats and other animals like birds and squirrels. They are working dogs, not hunting dogs. Which is ideal for multi-pet households.
When it comes to energy levels, both these pups are a great balance of playful and relaxed. They will be excited to see you and expect a fuss. Both will love a bit of rough and tumble at playtime. They are silly canines with their family, but they also know how to relax too, making them calm in the home.
Exercise
Neither the Newfie or the Saint Bernard need a huge amount of exercise. They are slow-paced pooches that will take a slow excursion with the family at a leisurely pace. Due to their size and weight, it is not advisable to over-exercise them as it will cause health problems. A moderate 45 to 60 minutes of daily exercise is more than enough for both.
The Newfie will happily play in the water for hours on end. Floating in water takes a lot of pressure off their joints, and their webbed feet make it easy exercise for them. The Bernard can be a bit of a goofball at times when playing games. He will play chase with other dogs and his family until he gets too tired.
Both dogs can be a little lazy and are prone to suffer from obesity if not exercised correctly. Left to their own devices, they will eat at every given opportunity but only exert themselves when forced to. They both love a nap, especially if it involves the pack and lots of cuddles. So, don’t let them dictate activity levels.
Depending on your lifestyle, these breeds could be perfect for the average family. If you like a walk or a day out for a picnic and a wander, they make fantastic companions. If, however, you want to hike, bike, and explore, it might be too much for these giants.
Training
The Saint Bernard is known to be an intelligent breed who isn’t too difficult to train. They are sometimes too laid back for their own good and will need a lot of motivation. When we say motivation, we mean edible goodies. Positive reinforcement training with food rewards is the way to win over this boy’s heart and mind.
The Newfoundland is intelligent and eager to please, so he takes to training with gusto. He is a quick learner and rapidly learns to carry out tasks with a voice command or hand signal. Both breeds can also be a bit hard on toys, so you’ll want to provide them with dog toys that match their size.
Starting training early when these two are tiny puppers is the key to getting right. The sooner they know what the rules are both in the house and outdoors, the less likely they are to make their own rules. Doggy play dates and visits to busy areas such as play parks and plazas will get them acclimatized to the big wide world. Socialization is important to remind these dogs how to play gently and that not everyone is an enemy of his family.
Health
The Newfie and Bernard are both prone to suffering from hip and elbow dysplasia. It can be a real-life changer for these breeds. It will limit mobility and exercise until treated and can be an expensive ailment for any owner. This is why it is important to work with a reputable breeder who checks hip scores before breeding.
Both breeds can suffer from problems concerning their eyes. The Newfie’s most prominent concern is cherry eye, where a gland in the corner of the eye swells and looks like a growth. The Bernard is likely to suffer from entropion, which is a defect that causes the eyelid to roll inward.
Large breeds should also be checked for heart conditions such as dilated cardiomyopathy and subvalvular aortic stenosis. Saint Bernards have a shorter lifespan just like Great Danes, Mastiffs, and other giant breed dogs. The same is true for the Newfie. This reduced life span is due to accelerated wear and tear. Which, in turn, accelerates them to old age faster. This is something to bear in mind when considering either of these gorgeous giants.
Nutrition
On average, the Saint Bernard will eat more food than a Newfie. At an average of six cups a day, they eat one more cup on average than their Newfoundland counterpart will eat. With both beasties being giant breeds, they have specific nutrient requirements for their health and ongoing health concerns. They will need good quality nutritious food that is specifically designed for large or giant breeds.
Both the Newfie and the Bernard should have set meal times twice a day. Not a constant supply of food in their bowls. Unlike some smaller breeds that can be trusted to graze, both these breeds will hoover up as much food as you’re willing to give. You also need to be wary of bloat and recognize the symptoms of this life-threatening condition.
Grooming
The Newfoundland has a water-resistant double coat. As a result, they are moderate to high shedders. It’s worse in spring when they rid themselves of the extra thick winter coat. Brushing them two to three times a week is plenty throughout the year. It takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes at a time to give the Newfie a once over with a decent grooming brush.
The Saint Bernard is similar to a double coat and will also need a regular brush to keep him looking his best. Again, two to three times a week with a few daily brushes during the spring and autumn season change should be enough. If started at an early age, grooming is a great way to bond with your pup, for both the Bernard and Newfie.
Because they are both prone to eye concerns, when brushing them be sure to take a quick glance over their eyes. This way, if you note any changes, you can take them to the vet and get them checked out before it worsens. If lower shedding frequency is important, look for a hybrid dog that sheds less, as the Saint Berdoodle.
Price
The average price of these two handsome canines is $1,500 for a pup from a reputable breeder. Good breeders will have clean and presentable areas for birthing and raising litters. And be able to show you the health certificates for the mother and father. It’s really important to work with a reputable breeder when it comes to both of these guys. As they already have shortened lifespans, you do not want to cut that shorter by buying a pup from a puppy mill.
Final Thoughts
Just like both of these lovely canines, the decision to allow a big dog into your life is humungous. Both the Newfoundland and Saint Bernard will need a lot of time and attention, as well as a financial investment to keep them fit and healthy. So be sure you are willing and able to commit to them before taking the plunge.
Use the information in this guide to decide which pooch is better suited to you and your lifestyle. Whichever breed you choose, they will both create a giant dog-sized hole in your heart that will always bring you back to gentle giants. So, be prepared to fall hopelessly head over heels for these gentle giants.
Curtis Franke
May 23, 2023 at 10:19 pm
I got my first St Bernard Dec 24, 2022 at 7 1/2 weeks old. In 6 short months he has gone from 14.4 pounds to 100 pounds. I have wanted one since I was 5 and he has not disappointed. He is so kind and loving. He is very gentle with my one year old grand daughter and he lets her do anything to him. He is absolutely the best. I have had several other breeds and a St Bernard is definitely my favorite!
Karen
March 5, 2022 at 11:10 am
This Information was both informative and easily to distinguish between deciding on which breed of dog to get. Many thanks
Bart
September 13, 2021 at 2:26 pm
We are on Newfie #3. Wouldn't trade for any other breed. Friendliest most lovable dog out there that aims to please. They do get very lazy as they age. Slobber and shedding are their biggest flaws. My biggest challenge is getting him to the vet now that he is 8. He no longer likes to jump in the car or into the bacl of the truck or use a ramp so we need two to lift him in. If you can tolerate the hair and slobber you will never regret having such a great companion.
Angela
August 9, 2021 at 5:52 pm
We have a 2year old Newfoundland Brown girl and she is adorable she lives alone side 2 Male Irish Setters who she loves. She's very playful, sensitive and protective of her family. She bought some much-needed energy and life back into all of us.
Kelly Wilson
August 9, 2021 at 6:22 pm
Sounds like an amazing dog, Angela! Thanks for commenting!
Joan Glenney
April 26, 2021 at 6:03 pm
I'm on Newfie #7 over 43 years, with only a month without while waiting to bring a new puppy home. Once you have a giant breed, you're likely to always have one, at least until you can no longer handle a big guy. I've been very lucky to have most of my sweet Newfies live to be 11 or 12, with my previous gentle pal living to be a month short of 13.
My current loveable, goofy, GIANT boy just weighed in at 179.9 pounds. I guess my vet thought it would be easier to hear than 180! He is a MASSIVE Landseer, not at all fat, yet very muscular, show quality (as if that mattered to me!) who stops people in their tracks--"He's the biggest dog I've ever seen..." And yes, he may be just that.
Kelly Wilson
April 27, 2021 at 7:07 pm
Hi Joan! Wow! It sounds like you've had some amazing dogs. I love the Landseer colors - such striking dogs. Thank you so much for stopping by to share your experience with these gentle giants!
Nicole
March 18, 2021 at 5:37 pm
We have a Newfoundland that turned 1 years old March 7. They are both great breeds and both rescue dogs. Saints aren’t great swimmers and Newfies are awesome swimmers. I have 3 kids and Duchess is awesome kind, lazy and loving. She loves to be inside the AC house unless kids are playing outside until of course, she gets too hot or tired.
She only barks if she feels she needs too which is very rare. She does not like to be left alone so she goes everywhere with me. I have a suburban and she takes the entire back, and yes she’s only 1. So make sure you have a big car with either breed. Vacations we have to rent a U-haul trailer cause luggage won’t fit with her. They will both protect and love your daughter. Good luck!
Kelly Wilson
March 19, 2021 at 5:16 pm
Sounds like your Newfie is a great dog, Nicole! Thanks for stopping by to share your experience with others!
Katherine Bouley
March 4, 2021 at 11:51 pm
Very informative. Still don't know which breed will make the best service dog for my special needs daughter. She is now 17 but will be almost 19 when we get the dog. We now live in a mobile home so it wouldn't be fair to get the dog now. We will wait till we move to Florida and have more room.
We specifically want a large dog so she can't pick it up and drag it around. But that loves to be loved and petted and snuggled a lot. Can even sleep next to her or beside her bed. My girl has some aggression issues and we want to train the dog to recognize and interfere and distract so she calms down quickly. I don't know if they can be trained as a seizure alert dog or if they can track if she elopes. So many questions!
Kelly Wilson
March 8, 2021 at 3:13 pm
Hi Katherine! I think both of these breeds are great choices. Saint Bernards are the original rescue breed, so that might be a good way to go. Good luck in your dog search!