Last Updated on September 20, 2023
Quick Summary: Both the Saint Bernard and Labrador Retriever are massive dogs. Although their size may seem daunting, spending time with the Saint Bernard will show you how incredibly friendly they are. Of course, the Labrador is already well known for their playful and cheerful nature. Due to their size, both breeds are prone to developing joint problems as they age, particularly Saint Bernards. They both make excellent companions, especially for children. Both these breeds shed a lot, particularly Saint Bernards. As for their lifespans, the Saint Bernard can live anywhere from 8 to 10 years. The Labrador Retriever, on the other hand, has a lifespan of 10 to 12 years.
Are you considering adopting a dog for your family and cannot decide between the Labrador Retriever and Saint Bernard? Both breeds of dogs are popular pet breeds that are loved by families. Although both breeds share certain similar traits, they are quite different.
Labradors are among the most loved breeds in America and the UK. Saint Bernards have a famous status as animals that rescue people and have been popularized in films and cartoons. However, what do they do as pets for families?
If you’re deciding between the two dogs you’d like to have as your next pet for the family or just want to know the differences between these breeds, this article will provide you with information about the characteristics of both breeds. We will compare the two types to assist you in determining which one is best suited to your needs.
Breed Background and History
The stories of both breeds are fascinating and to not be understated. Both breeds have absorbed their homeland’s cultural traditions, earning a name worldwide for their courage and intelligence. Both breeds are dated back to the past and are derived from many generations of dogs that work.
Let’s learn a bit more about the places both breeds originate and the purpose for which they were bred.
Saint Bernard: An Overview
It is believed that the Saint Bernard has an exemplary background that distinguishes it from other breeds. While many breeds of dogs are renowned for their work, this breed was famous for something more important: saving lives.
Around 1660, the Saint Bernard hospice monks, situated in a region of danger between the Swiss and the Italian Alps, were discovered to own the Asiatic mastiff breed to assist them in their tasks.
The breed was medium-sized with short white and reddish fur and an extended tail. They were great watchdogs and were adored by monks for their friendship.
In 1750, monks had entrusted the dogs with escorting monks’ servants to a township nearby in Switzerland. Their large chests were able to clear the way of snowy ice, and the staff quickly realized that they could provide an extremely keen sense of smell and direction.
In the end, the dogs were tasked with locating lost travelers buried on the frozen ground. At this time, they were bred for long, thick fur, a longer tail, and a smellier sense. They helped save thousands of lives during their time in the hospice and gave birth to the myth about the breed.
Nowadays, Saint Bernards are not frequently used to protect individuals from avalanches. The appearance of Saint Bernards has changed because of the frequent crossing of breeds, but their reputation as affectionate, loving, and intelligent companions hasn’t diminished.
Labrador Retriever: An Overview
Contrary to its name, the Labrador Retriever originates in Newfoundland, Canada, not in the neighboring Labrador. The dog’s lineage comes from a breed known as “the Saint John’s water dog.” The first record of the water dog was during the early 1500s in the period of French and British settlement of this region.
The dog was originally a fisherman’s dog. The Saint John’s water dog thrived in the field of work. It would retrieve fishing lines, swoop into the water to catch fish that would fall off the hook, and even haul in whole fishing nets on its own. Farmers and fishermen in the region were extremely fond of the breed for its dedication to work as well as its intelligence and energy.
Despite its popularity in the local area, however, it wasn’t until the 1800s that water dogs were introduced to other areas. The potential of the water dog in the popular breeder’s field led to it becoming useful to royalty. Many royals worked together to develop them from a water breed into hunting dogs, and so the Labrador Retriever was born.
As time passed, the Labrador earned a name in the eyes of American farmers as a great working dog that was perfect for hunting and various farming jobs. Since then, its popularity has only increased, and it was commonplace to see the Labrador on a farm or in a posh family.
Today, the Labrador is among the most sought-after breeds of dogs across the US and the UK. Labs also have distinct breeding lines according to where they come from. There are a few other breeds that can be close to American household status, such as those of the Golden Retriever.
Appearance and Size
These aren’t two breeds of dogs you can confuse. While the Labrador is an average-sized to large-sized dog, a Saint Bernard is one of the most massive dogs in the world.
Labrador males weigh around 65-80 pounds, while females are slightly lighter, between 55 and 70 pounds. Saint Bernards, on their own, are a massive breed that weighs 140-180 pounds on average. They are massive breeds that are only surpassed by a handful of other breeds.
Labs come with an easy-to-manage short coat that is available in black, yellow, or chocolate shades in regards to appearance. They sport a large skull with chiseled features creating a distinctive style that many have come to appreciate. Labs have slim legs which support their strong and muscular frame.
Saint Bernards generally share the same color spectrum even if they are slightly different and have brown and white patches all over their bodies. They are covered in large fur designed for colder weather, a large tail, and an oversized chest. Although their muscles aren’t obvious, you can be certain that they’re hidden under their fluffy fur coat.
Temperament and Personality Traits
Labs are known for being very energetic dogs. Although they are generally charming and smart, they can be notoriously naughty and can be quite a bit of a jerk even into adulthood. They are extremely friendly with kids, small and large, and make great playmates for all the family members.
Although their size may seem daunting, spending time with the Saint Bernard can show how incredibly welcoming they are. They are well-known for being kind, attentive, intelligent, and lively. They are also very gentle.
Both breeds are excellent companions, particularly for children. Although a mature Saint Bernard is huge, it will not carry its weight around as if it’s unaware of it. Also, properly trained Labs will not get rough with children even if it’s running about like an innocent maniac.
Exercise Requirements
As we’ve mentioned, Labradors are full of energy and require daily workouts. A stroll around the block won’t suffice. The average adult Lab generally requires about two hours of physical activity each day to stay physically and mentally healthy. This could include playing in the backyard, the lake, or the pool, or having fun with the other dogs in the dog park.
Saint Bernards require a bit less exercise to remain healthy. Veterinarians advise approximately an hour of daily exercise, including walks and moments of off-leash in a secure area. While they’re certainly at ease playing alongside other dog breeds, you should be aware of the fact that their size could be a source of fear for other pet owners.
While all dogs require exercise, these breeds tend to be much more energetic than most. If you’re planning on choosing one of these breeds as your puppy, you’ll need to live a full and active life to keep up with their routine.
Training and Socialization
The training of both breeds of puppies are alike; however, there are certain areas you must focus on more than other things based on the breed of puppy you own.
Both breeds must be properly crate-trained to transport them and on occasions when you require them to be out of the way. It is essential to have a big cage for both breeds, particularly Saint Bernards, whose size restricts any smaller than the largest dog crate you can find.
Positive reinforcement is essential to encouraging positive behavior in dogs and cats. Rewards and treats can help a lot when shouting or other negative reinforcement methods fail.
If a breeder does an act that isn’t right, it’s best to promote good behavior instead of reprimanding undesirable behavior. By receiving positive reinforcement, dogs will quickly understand how to behave and what not to do.
Particularly, you must teach the Saint Bernard not to leap at an early age. This is a major issue as they age because of their size.
Similar to training Labradors so as not to chew and scratch is also crucial. Labs are often extremely curious dogs; however, you shouldn’t let them stick their noses where they should not be!
Grooming Requirements
The grooming procedure for both breeds is quite different, and it is important to keep this in mind when deciding between them.
Both breeds shed a lot, particularly Saint Bernards, whose fur sheds in clumps frequently. It is necessary to brush the breed at least once a week using a big grooming rake to remove excess hair off and avoid excessive shed.
Labradors need grooming every week. While they shed quite a bit, they’ve got a shorter coat that doesn’t shed often. Excessive grooming in the Lab could cause skin conditions, so ensure you don’t scrub them excessively.
Bathing is essential too. Due to their long coats, Saint Bernards must be bathed at least every 8 weeks. They also are large droolers and require more grooming maintenance. However, you can bathe Labs whenever they require it. If you’re looking to have a routine, a gentle bath every month is acceptable.
Nutritional Requirements
A balanced diet is essential for keeping both breeds healthy and happy. For Labradors, it’s fairly simple since the diet they consume is similar to other breeds of dogs.
Saint Bernards are, however, in need of some extra care in the diet they consume. Because of their breed size, they require more food than other dogs. But, overfeeding can lead to overweight and a host of health problems Therefore, it is important to be aware of their calories.
The type of food you give your dog can dramatically impact their weight and energy levels. If you stick to low-cost, processed food, your dog’s health will show this. Nutritious dog food options are available for both breeds; however, they might cost more.
Another option is to make the dog’s food yourself. Although this is likely to require more effort from you, the result is a healthier dog, and who could place a value on this?
Health Issues
All breeds of dogs can have health issues that are specific to breeds, and this is no exception. Due to their size, both breeds are prone to developing joint problems as they age, particularly Saint Bernards. Your veterinarian may suggest shorter play time to lessen the stress on their knees and hips.
But, you must encourage plenty of exercise when they are younger. Dogs have a greater risk of being overweight than other breeds. Running, for example, can reduce the possibility of becoming overweight as they age.
Saint Bernards tend to suffer from dental problems as compared to other breeds. Treats encouraging dental health and regularly brushing their teeth can prevent this.
Addison’s disease is a severe genetic disorder that develops when adrenal glands cease functioning normally. Saint Bernards are more likely to suffer from this disease. Fortunately, regular tests will detect the condition before it becomes serious, and treatment is available.
Labs are susceptible to skin issues that many dogs can avoid. They can be extremely uncomfortable and can be painful for dogs, and can be unpleasant to look at also. Contact a veterinarian if your pet is suffering from a lump or rash to determine exactly what you can do.
Reputable Breeders and Puppy Prices
While you may be able to locate purebred dogs at an animal shelter, you can also purchase the puppy from breeders. The cost of puppies will be contingent on the caliber of the breeder as well as the pedigree of the dog.
Labrador puppies are typically priced between $1,000 to $1,500. Chocolate Labs, however, might cost more due to the color of their coats. Other uncommon Lab colors such as red and silver are also able to sell for more than the $1,500 mark, in spite of their controversial nature.
Saint Bernard puppies can be quite expensive. While they may cost as little as $1000, it’s common to find them at about $2,600 and as high as $10,000. Anything less than $1500 must be approached with caution.
Be cautious of puppies priced lower than the price mentioned previously. There could be health issues, or the breeder could not be caring enough for the puppies and their parents. It is best to avoid supporting the puppy farming industry or breeding mills that do not treat animals with love and respect.
Conclusion
I hope this article provided answers to any questions you might be asking yourself when comparing the Saint Bernard vs. Labrador Retriever breeds of dogs. Both are great options, particularly if you have children, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Whichever breed you pick, make sure that they are a healthy and happy new family member by giving them a proper diet and providing them with training and exercise.
That’s it – make up your mind between these two wonderful breeds. Your new pet is waiting to be welcomed into your family!