Beagle vs Saint Bernard

Hound · Small vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Saint Bernard is the larger breed at 140–180 lbs (males) vs 20–30 lbs for the Beagle.
  • The Beagle typically lives longer (10–15 years).
  • The Beagle has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Beagle sheds less.
  • The Saint Bernard is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBeagleSaint Bernard
Group
HoundWorking
Size
SmallGiant
Origin
EnglandSwitzerland
Height (male)
13–15"28–30"
Height (female)
13–15"26–28"
Weight (male)
20–30 lbs140–180 lbs
Weight (female)
20–30 lbs120–140 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–15 years8–10 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Beagle

The Beagle is a friendly, curious, merry scenthound — the world's most popular small hound, famous for its bay. Originally from England, this small hound breed typically weighs 20–30 lbs and lives 10–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, curious, merry.

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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Beagle health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Obesity
  • Epilepsy
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Ear infections

Saint Bernard health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Eye conditions