Great dane vs saint bernard: Which Is Better?

Are you torn between a Great Dane and a Saint Bernard? Both are giant breeds known for their gentle nature, but they have distinct personalities, care needs, and quirks. This comparison will help you decide which majestic companion fits your home, lifestyle, and budget. They are not the same. See more in our Dogs guides.

Quick Comparison: Great Dane vs Saint Bernard at a Glance

Great Dane vs Saint Bernard: Personality at a Glance

Size & Living Space

Great Danes are the taller breed, standing up to 34 inches at the shoulder and weighing 100-200 pounds. Their sleek, athletic build makes them appear less bulky than Saint Bernards. Saint Bernards are also massive, but they have a thicker, more muscular frame with a heavy bone structure. Both need ample indoor space, but Saint Bernards generally require more room due to their bulk and tendency to sprawl.

Living space requirements differ greatly. A Great Dane can adapt to apartment living if given sufficient exercise, but a Saint Bernard typically needs a house with a yard, especially in cooler climates. Both breeds are not suited for hot weather due to their size and heat sensitivity. Saint Bernards have thick double coats that make them prone to overheating, while Great Danes are more heat-tolerant but still need shade and hydration.

PropawPicks Verdict: For apartments or warm climates, the Great Dane is more adaptable; the Saint Bernard needs a house with a cool environment.

Temperament & Family Fit

Both breeds are famous for being gentle giants. Great Danes are sensitive, affectionate, and often form strong bonds with their family. They can be reserved with strangers but are not aggressive. Saint Bernards are exceptionally patient and tolerant, earning them the nickname “nanny dog” for families with children. They are calm, friendly, and good-natured, making them excellent companions for kids of all ages.

However, Great Danes can be more prone to separation anxiety and may become destructive if left alone too long. Saint Bernards are generally more independent and less needy, though they still crave human companionship. Both breeds have a protective instinct, but Saint Bernards are less likely to be reactive.

PropawPicks Verdict: The Saint Bernard edges ahead for families with children due to its unmatched patience, while the Great Dane is better for single owners or couples who can provide constant attention.

Training

Great Danes are intelligent and eager to please, making them fairly easy to train with positive reinforcement. They respond well to consistent, gentle guidance. However, they can be sensitive to harsh corrections. Saint Bernards are also intelligent but can be stubborn and independent-minded. They need a patient owner who uses firm, consistent commands without being punitive.

Both breeds require early socialization and obedience training. Great Danes can be more anxious if not properly socialized, while Saint Bernards may become aloof or reserved. Training sessions should be short and fun to keep their attention.

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PropawPicks Verdict: Great Danes are easier to train due to their eagerness, but Saint Bernards require a more patient, experienced owner.

Exercise Needs

Great Danes are moderate to high energy dogs. They need daily walks plus playtime to burn off energy. Without enough exercise, they may become destructive or hyperactive. Saint Bernards have lower energy levels. A moderate walk and some playtime suffice, but they love to lounge. They are not suited for intense exercise, especially in hot weather.

Both breeds should avoid excessive running or jumping as puppies to protect their growing joints. Adult Great Danes can be good jogging companions for short distances, while Saint Bernards prefer leisurely strolls.

PropawPicks Verdict: Active owners will prefer the Great Dane; those wanting a low-energy companion will favor the Saint Bernard.

Grooming & Shedding

Great Danes have a short, smooth coat that sheds moderately year-round. Weekly brushing is enough, but they do drool, though less than Saint Bernards. Saint Bernards have a thick, dense double coat that sheds heavily, especially during shedding season. They require daily brushing to prevent mats and control fur. They also drool profusely, requiring constant wiping of slobber from walls and furniture.

Bathing should be done as needed. Both breeds are prone to ear infections, so regular ear cleaning is important. Nail trims and dental care are essential for both.

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PropawPicks Verdict: If you can’t handle heavy shedding and drool, choose the Great Dane; the Saint Bernard demands constant grooming and cleaning.

Health & Lifespan

Both breeds have relatively short lifespans compared to smaller dogs. Great Danes average 7-10 years, with many health issues including bloat (gastric torsion), hip dysplasia, heart disease (dilated cardiomyopathy), and bone cancer. Saint Bernards live 8-10 years and are prone to similar issues: hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, heart problems, and eye conditions like ectropion.

Bloat is a life-threatening emergency for both breeds. Feeding multiple small meals per day, using elevated bowls, and avoiding exercise after meals can reduce risk. Regular vet checkups and screening for heart and joint issues are crucial.

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PropawPicks Verdict: Neither breed is long-lived, but Saint Bernards have a slightly longer average lifespan, though both require proactive health management.

Cost of Ownership

Buying a Great Dane from a reputable breeder costs $1,500-$3,000, while Saint Bernard puppies range $1,200-$2,500. Both breeds consume large amounts of high-quality food ($100-$200 per month). Veterinary care is expensive due to their size; checkups, medications, and surgeries can cost significantly more than for smaller dogs. Emergency bloat surgery may exceed $5,000. Pet insurance is highly recommended.

Other costs include large crates, beds, leashes, and grooming supplies. Saint Bernards will incur higher grooming costs due to professional grooming sessions (if owners don’t do it themselves).

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PropawPicks Verdict: The Saint Bernard may have slightly lower upfront costs, but both breeds are expensive to own and require a significant financial commitment.

Final Word from ProPawPicks

Both the Great Dane and Saint Bernard are amazing companions with distinct personalities. Choose the Great Dane for a more energetic, sleek giant that thrives in active homes. Choose the Saint Bernard for a calm, drooly family dog that loves children and cool weather. Whichever you choose, be ready for a large commitment in space, time, and budget. They are both gentle giants, but your lifestyle will determine the best fit.

Let’s recap the key differences: Great Danes are taller, more energetic, and easier to groom; Saint Bernards are heavier, calmer, but messier. Both need early training, socialization, and a dedicated owner who understands giant breed challenges.

Which Should You Choose?

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Tags: Great Dane, Saint Bernard, giant dog breeds, dog breed comparison, Great Dane vs Saint Bernard, family dogs, large dog breeds

Sources

• AKC
• ASPCA