American Bulldog vs Saint Bernard

Working · Large vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Saint Bernard is the larger breed at 140–180 lbs (males) vs 75–100 lbs for the American Bulldog.
  • The American Bulldog typically lives longer (10–12 years).
  • The American Bulldog has higher daily energy needs.
  • The American Bulldog sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAmerican BulldogSaint Bernard
Group
WorkingWorking
Size
LargeGiant
Origin
USASwitzerland
Height (male)
22–25"28–30"
Height (female)
20–23"26–28"
Weight (male)
75–100 lbs140–180 lbs
Weight (female)
60–80 lbs120–140 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 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.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the American Bulldog

The American Bulldog is a loyal, athletic, hard-working farm guardian — taller and more athletic than the English Bulldog. Originally from USA, this large working breed typically weighs 75–100 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, athletic, hardworking.

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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American Bulldog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cherry eye
  • Skin allergies
  • Kidney disease

Saint Bernard health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Eye conditions