Boerboel vs Saint Bernard

Boerboel
Boerboel

Confident, Intelligent, Calm

Saint Bernard
Saint Bernard

Playful, Charming, Inquisitive

Breed Compatibility

88% Compatible

Energy Level

Boerboel: Calm0.4
Saint Bernard: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible

Trainability

Boerboel: Agreeable0.6
Saint Bernard: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible

Grooming Needs

Boerboel: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Saint Bernard: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible

Cost Category

Luxury
Luxury
Very Compatible

Compatibility with Others

Good with Children
Boerboel4/5
Saint Bernard5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Boerboel2/5
Saint Bernard3/5
Good with Strangers
Boerboel3/5
Saint Bernard3/5

Living Requirements

Health & Care Comparison

Boerboel

Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint issues
Heart Problems: Cardiac concerns
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Ectropion: Eyelid condition

Saint Bernard

Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Bloat: Stomach twisting condition
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Eye Problems: Various disorders
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint problems
Bone Cancer: Higher risk breed

Pros & Cons Comparison

Boerboel

Pros
Excellent guardian
Loyal family companion
Intelligent
Calm temperament
Low grooming needs
Cons
Requires extensive training
Not suitable for small spaces
High food costs
May be too powerful for inexperienced owners

Saint Bernard

Pros
Gentle and patient with children
Loyal and protective
Good-natured temperament
Excellent cold weather tolerance
Cons
Heavy drooling
Expensive to feed and maintain
Short lifespan
Not suited for hot climates

Boerboel Fun Fact

Despite their imposing size, Boerboels are known as 'velcro dogs' due to their desire to stay close to their owners.

Saint Bernard Fun Fact

The iconic barrel around their neck was never actually used in rescues - it's a popular myth from paintings!

Heritage & Purpose

Boerboel

Origin:

Developed in South Africa during the 17th century as farm guardians and protectors against predators. These dogs were essential for protecting homesteads and livestock.

Saint Bernard

Origin:

Mountain rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps during the 17th-19th centuries, saving countless lives at the Saint Bernard Pass hospice. Renowned for locating and reviving stranded travelers.

Special Considerations

Boerboel

Needs early socialization and training. Regular exercise essential despite calm nature. Health monitoring important due to size-related issues.

Saint Bernard

Heavy shedding requires regular grooming. Drooling management needed. Exercise moderation in warm weather essential. Joint health supplements often recommended.

Shedding

Occasional

Shedding

Seasonal

Related Comparisons