Saint Bernard
Saint Bernard
VS
German Shepherd Dog
German Shepherd Dog

Saint Bernard vs German Shepherd Dog

Compare Saint Bernard and German Shepherd Dog side by side and get a clear picture of what sets the breeds apart. Explore differences in size, weight, temperament, activity level, and other key traits to more easily decide which breed best fits your lifestyle and circumstances.
Characteristic
Saint Bernard
German Shepherd Dog
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
65 – 90 cm
61 – 65 cm
Weight
60 – 100 kg
33 – 37 kg
Life expectancy
8 – 10 years
9 – 13 years
Child friendly
5/5
4/5
Energy level
3/5
4/5
Intelligence
3/5
3/5
Trainability
3/5
4/5
Health
3/5
4/5
Grooming needs
4/5
3/5
Shedding
5/5
3/5
Barking level
3/5
4/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
4/5
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Characteristics

Saint Bernard
Great with kids
Giant
German Shepherd Dog
Great with kids
High energy
Protective
Easy to train
Large

Summary

About Saint Bernard
Large, gentle mountain dog developed by Swiss monks for rescue and companionship. Calm and affectionate, especially with children, but very big, drooly, and heavy shedding. Needs moderate exercise, careful joint and health management, and close inclusion in family life.
About German Shepherd Dog
The German Shepherd Dog is a medium‑large, athletic working breed, highly intelligent and trainable. Loyal and naturally protective, it needs extensive daily mental and physical exercise. It has a double coat with notable shedding and is widely used in police, military, and search and rescue roles.

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