Australian Terrier vs Saint Bernard
Terrier · Small vs Working · Giant
Australian TerrierSmall
A spirited, alert, courageous Australian outback ratter — the first breed developed Down Under.
Weight: 15–20 lbsLifespan: 11–15 years
Saint BernardGiant
A playful, charming, inquisitive Alpine rescue giant — the original mountain rescue with the brandy keg.
Weight: 140–180 lbsLifespan: 8–10 years
Quick take
- • Saint Bernard is the larger breed at 140–180 lbs (males) vs 15–20 lbs for the Australian Terrier.
- • The Australian Terrier typically lives longer (11–15 years).
- • The Australian Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Australian Terrier sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Australian Terrier | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Working |
Size | Small | Giant |
Origin | Australia | Switzerland |
Height (male) | 10–11" | 28–30" |
Height (female) | 10–11" | 26–28" |
Weight (male) | 15–20 lbs | 140–180 lbs |
Weight (female) | 15–20 lbs | 120–140 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 11–15 years | 8–10 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. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | 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. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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About the Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is a spirited, alert, courageous Australian outback ratter — the first breed developed Down Under. Originally from Australia, this small terrier breed typically weighs 15–20 lbs and lives 11–15 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, alert, 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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Australian Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Diabetes
- • Allergies
Saint Bernard health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Heart disease
- • Eye conditions