Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs Saint Bernard

Toy · Small vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Saint Bernard is the larger breed at 140–180 lbs (males) vs 13–18 lbs for the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
  • The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCavalier King Charles SpanielSaint Bernard
Group
ToyWorking
Size
SmallGiant
Origin
EnglandSwitzerland
Height (male)
12–13"28–30"
Height (female)
12–13"26–28"
Weight (male)
13–18 lbs140–180 lbs
Weight (female)
13–18 lbs120–140 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years8–10 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Low (2/5)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
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
mediumlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an affectionate, gentle, graceful spaniel — bred as a lapdog companion to British royalty. Originally from England, this small toy breed typically weighs 13–18 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, gentle, graceful.

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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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Mitral valve disease
  • Syringomyelia
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems

Saint Bernard health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Eye conditions