Norwegian Elkhound vs Saint Bernard
Hound · Medium vs Working · Giant
Norwegian ElkhoundMedium
A friendly, dignified, confident Viking elk-hunting Spitz — Norway's national breed for over 6,000 years.
Weight: 55 lbsLifespan: 12–15 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 55 lbs for the Norwegian Elkhound.
- • The Norwegian Elkhound typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Norwegian Elkhound has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Saint Bernard is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Norwegian Elkhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
Group | Hound | Working |
Size | Medium | Giant |
Origin | Norway | Switzerland |
Height (male) | 19.5–20.5" | 28–30" |
Height (female) | 18–19" | 26–28" |
Weight (male) | 55 lbs | 140–180 lbs |
Weight (female) | 48 lbs | 120–140 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 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. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | High (4/5) | 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. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | 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. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | medium | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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About the Norwegian Elkhound
The Norwegian Elkhound is a friendly, dignified, confident Viking elk-hunting Spitz — Norway's national breed for over 6,000 years. Originally from Norway, this medium hound breed typically weighs 55 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, dignified, confident.
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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Norwegian Elkhound health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Progressive retinal atrophy
- • Hypothyroidism
Saint Bernard health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Heart disease
- • Eye conditions