Saint Bernard vs Whippet
Working · Giant vs Hound · Medium
Saint BernardGiant
A playful, charming, inquisitive Alpine rescue giant — the original mountain rescue with the brandy keg.
Weight: 140–180 lbsLifespan: 8–10 years
WhippetMedium
An affectionate, playful, calm small sighthound — looks like a mini Greyhound, sprints like one too.
Weight: 25–40 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Saint Bernard is the larger breed at 140–180 lbs (males) vs 25–40 lbs for the Whippet.
- • The Whippet typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Whippet has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Whippet sheds less.
- • The Saint Bernard is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Saint Bernard | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
Group | Working | Hound |
Size | Giant | Medium |
Origin | Switzerland | England |
Height (male) | 28–30" | 19–22" |
Height (female) | 26–28" | 18–21" |
Weight (male) | 140–180 lbs | 25–40 lbs |
Weight (female) | 120–140 lbs | 25–40 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 8–10 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very High (5/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Low (2/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | long | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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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.
About the Whippet
The Whippet is an affectionate, playful, calm small sighthound — looks like a mini Greyhound, sprints like one too. Originally from England, this medium hound breed typically weighs 25–40 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, playful, calm.
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Saint Bernard health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Heart disease
- • Eye conditions
Whippet health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Heart disease
- • Eye conditions
- • Anesthesia sensitivity