Borzoi vs Saint Bernard

Hound · Large vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Saint Bernard is the larger breed at 140–180 lbs (males) vs 75–105 lbs for the Borzoi.
  • The Borzoi typically lives longer (9–14 years).
  • The Borzoi has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Saint Bernard is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBorzoiSaint Bernard
Group
HoundWorking
Size
LargeGiant
Origin
RussiaSwitzerland
Height (male)
28"28–30"
Height (female)
26"26–28"
Weight (male)
75–105 lbs140–180 lbs
Weight (female)
60–85 lbs120–140 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
9–14 years8–10 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)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.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)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.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Borzoi

The Borzoi is a regal, affectionate, quiet Russian wolfhound — aristocratic sighthound with the long elegant snout. Originally from Russia, this large hound breed typically weighs 75–105 lbs and lives 9–14 years. Breeders describe them as regal, affectionate, quiet.

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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Borzoi health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Anesthesia sensitivity

Saint Bernard health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Eye conditions