Dachshund vs Saint Bernard
Hound · Small vs Working · Giant
DachshundSmall
A spirited, clever, courageous badger-hunter on stubby legs — the iconic 'wiener dog'.
Weight: 16–32 lbsLifespan: 12–16 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 16–32 lbs for the Dachshund.
- • The Dachshund typically lives longer (12–16 years).
- • The Dachshund has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Dachshund sheds less.
- • The Saint Bernard is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Dachshund | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
Group | Hound | Working |
Size | Small | Giant |
Origin | Germany | Switzerland |
Height (male) | 8–9" | 28–30" |
Height (female) | 8–9" | 26–28" |
Weight (male) | 16–32 lbs | 140–180 lbs |
Weight (female) | 16–32 lbs | 120–140 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–16 years | 8–10 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. | 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. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Very High (5/5) | 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. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | short | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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About the Dachshund
The Dachshund is a spirited, clever, courageous badger-hunter on stubby legs — the iconic 'wiener dog'. Originally from Germany, this small hound breed typically weighs 16–32 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as spunky, curious, friendly.
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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Dachshund health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • IVDD (back problems)
- • Obesity
- • Patellar luxation
- • Diabetes
Saint Bernard health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Heart disease
- • Eye conditions