The Bernese Mountain dog was bred for working with livestock in the Alps region of Switzerland.  They were known to herd cattle and sheep into barns during winter months when the snow would fall heavily.

St. Bernard is an old breed that has been used as a rescue dog for centuries. The breed is large and strong and can pull heavy weights with their strong muscles. The coat of St. Bernard is thick and water repellent to help them survive in harsh conditions such as snow or rain.

While the Bernese Mountain Dog and St Bernard are both strong dogs, known for their exceptional working capacities, these two breeds can vary quite drastically. It is important to learn the differences between the two breeds before making a decision on which dog would be best for your lifestyle.

Here are the top 10 differences between the Bernese Mountain Dog and St. Bernard:

1. Bernese Mountain Dog Vs St Bernard: Their History

Bernese Mountain Dog	St. Bernard
The history of the Bernese Mountain Dog goes back to the 1700s when they were bred in the Alps region in Switzerland by monks who wanted to protect the local farmers from wild animals and bandits.	St. Bernard is one of the oldest breeds of dog in history and has been around for over 2000 years. This animal was originally found in the Roman Empire, where it was used to rescue people from danger. It was believed that this breed could smell far better than any human and is still used as a rescue dog today.

2. Bernese Mountain Dogs are considerably smaller than St Bernards

Bernese Mountain Dog	St. Bernard
These dogs weigh between 70 and 115 pounds, and measure between 23 and 27 ½ inches tall.	Saint Bernards weigh much more, between 120 and 180 pounds, and measure 26 to 30 inches tall.

3. Bernard dogs have more color varieties in coats

Bernese Mountain Dog	St. Bernard
The coat of the Bernese Mountain Dog is tricolored- signature black as the background color with a white chest and rust patches in the legs and beside the mouth.	St Bernard enjoys more color varieties such as brindle grizzle, brown and white, red and white, orange and white.

4. St. Bernard is more known for their love for children

Bernese Mountain Dog	St. Bernard
These dogs make great family pets as they are loyal and affectionate creatures.	St. Bernard dogs are equally loving pets, but they are more famous for their affinity for kids. If you have small children, you know which breed is the obvious choice for you.

5. Bernese Mountain Dogs are more energetic than St Bernard dogs

Bernese Mountain Dog	St. Bernard
Bernese Mountain Dogs have more energy levels than St Bernards which is why they thrive in an active household that can provide the dog with adequate exercise and training.	St Bernard dogs, on the other hand, are calmer and more laid back than Bernese Mountain Dogs, but exercise and training are equally important for this breed.

6. Bernese Mountain Dogs have a longer coat than St. Barnard

Bernese Mountain Dog	St. Bernard
Bernese Mountain Dogs have a moderately long, slightly wavy, or straight coat that sheds throughout the year.	Saint Bernard dogs have relatively shorter fur than Bernese, with long hairs around the neck, legs, and the base of the tail.

7. Barnards live longer than Bernese Mountain Dogs

Bernese Mountain Dog	St. Bernard
Bernese Mountain Dogs have a life expectancy of 6-8 years as they are highly prone to cancer.	St Bernard dogs can live relatively longer than Bernese Mountain Dogs, with a life expectancy of 8-10 years.

8. Bernese Mountain Dogs require more exercise

Bernese Mountain Dog	St. Bernard
Bernese Mountain Dogs need at least 1 hour of daily exercise to keep them fit and healthy.	Around 30 minutes of walking, jogging, or hiking is enough for St. Bernard dogs.

9. Bernard require more food given their larger size

Bernese Mountain Dog	St. Bernard
The Bernese Mountain Dog will consume between three to four cups of food every day.	St. Bernard, given their larger size, will consume six cups of food every day, which can also make a big difference in the food bill between the two breeds.

10. Bernese Mountain Dogs are more intelligent than St Bernards

Bernese Mountain Dog	St. Bernard
Bernese Mountain Dogs are smarter than St Bernards, making them relatively easier to teach new commands and tricks.	St. Bernard dogs have a slightly lower intelligence level than the Bernese, and they are also known for being potentially aggressive if not socialized early.

Similarities between the Bernese Mountain Dog and St. Bernard

There are many similarities between the Bernese Mountain Dog and St. Bernard. They both are giant dogs that are known for their strength and exceptional working abilities. Both of the breeds cost around $1000-$2000.

Bernese Mountain Dogs and St Bernards are handsome dogs, with fleshy square noses, big paws, droopy ears, and muscular bodies. Regardless of their size, they love to squeeze themselves onto you or on the sofa. Both of the breeds are big goofballs who want nothing more than their familial love and care.

Conclusion

Bernese Mountain Dogs and St. Bernards significantly vary when it comes to their intelligence, coat color, exercise needs, size, and food consumption. Despite the differences, both of these working breeds make great family companions if you care for them properly.

Thank you for reading the article.

To explore more, check out other articles that we have on the Bernese Mountain Dog and St Bernard.

Which is the breed of your choice? The Bernese Mountain Dog or the St Bernard? Let us know in the comments below!