Golden Retriever vs Saint Bernard
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
Golden Retriever: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Saint Bernard: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Golden Retriever: Eager to Please1.0
Saint Bernard: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Golden Retriever: Weekly Brushing0.4
Saint Bernard: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Golden Retriever5/5
Saint Bernard5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Golden Retriever5/5
Saint Bernard3/5
Good with Strangers
Golden Retriever5/5
Saint Bernard3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Golden Retriever
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Cancer: Higher than average risk
Skin Allergies: Common in breed
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
Golden Retriever
Pros
Excellent family dog
Highly trainable
Great with children
Friendly disposition
Versatile working ability
Cons
Heavy shedding
High exercise needs
Prone to health issues
Can be mouthy
Requires regular grooming
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
Golden Retriever Fun Fact
Golden Retrievers have such soft mouths they can carry an egg without breaking it, a trait from their hunting heritage.
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
Golden Retriever
Origin:
Developed in Scotland during the 1800s by Lord Tweedmouth to retrieve waterfowl in challenging terrains. Combined existing retrievers with water spaniels for the perfect hunting companion.
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
Golden Retriever
Regular grooming needed to manage shedding. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Joint health should be monitored, especially in growing puppies.
Saint Bernard
Heavy shedding requires regular grooming. Drooling management needed. Exercise moderation in warm weather essential. Joint health supplements often recommended.
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