Airedale Terrier vs Saint Bernard

Terrier · Large vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Saint Bernard is the larger breed at 140–180 lbs (males) vs 50–70 lbs for the Airedale Terrier.
  • The Airedale Terrier typically lives longer (11–14 years).
  • The Airedale Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Airedale Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAiredale TerrierSaint Bernard
Group
TerrierWorking
Size
LargeGiant
Origin
EnglandSwitzerland
Height (male)
23"28–30"
Height (female)
22"26–28"
Weight (male)
50–70 lbs140–180 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 lbs120–140 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–14 years8–10 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very High (5/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
wirehairedlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier is a friendly, clever, courageous 'King of Terriers' — the largest of the terrier clan from Yorkshire. Originally from England, this large terrier breed typically weighs 50–70 lbs and lives 11–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, clever, courageous.

About the Saint Bernard

The Saint Bernard is a playful, charming, inquisitive Alpine rescue giant — the original mountain rescue with the brandy keg. Originally from Switzerland, this giant working breed typically weighs 140–180 lbs and lives 8–10 years. Breeders describe them as playful, charming, inquisitive.

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Airedale Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Skin issues

Saint Bernard health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Eye conditions