Miniature Schnauzer vs Saint Bernard
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Miniature Schnauzer
Terrier Group
Saint Bernard
Working Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Miniature Schnauzer Overview
Miniature Schnauzers possess a distinctive beard and eyebrows framing their alert, dark eyes. Their sturdy, square-built frame carries a harsh double coat in salt-and-pepper, black, or black-and-silver. Standing 12-14 inches at the shoulder, these spirited terriers combine intelligence with a friendly, outgoing nature, making them exceptional family companions while maintaining their ancestral ratting abilities.
Saint Bernard Overview
Saint Bernards are majestic giants with powerful, muscular bodies and distinctive broad heads. Their thick double coat comes in white with red, brown, or brindle markings. Known for their gentle expression and patient demeanor, these dogs combine impressive strength with remarkable gentleness. Their deep chest, strong legs, and massive frame reflect their historical role as mountain rescue dogs.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Miniature Schnauzers are less energetic than Saint Bernards, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Miniature Schnauzers require more grooming attention compared to Saint Bernards.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Miniature Schnauzers tend to be more reserved with strangers than Saint Bernards.
- Trainability: Saint Bernards may be slightly easier to train due to their Saint Bernard's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Miniature Schnauzers adapt better to apartment living, while Saint Bernards typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Miniature Schnauzer and Saint Bernard, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Miniature Schnauzer | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Toy | Large |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 years | 8-10 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Terrier Group | Working Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Miniature Schnauzer | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 12-14 inches 30-36 cm | 26-30 inches 66-76 cm |
| Weight | 11-20 lbs 5-9 kg | 120-180 lbs 54-82 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Infrequent | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Miniature Schnauzer | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Friendly, Smart, Obedient | Playful, Charming, Inquisitive |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Miniature Schnauzer | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Miniature Schnauzer Temperament
The Miniature Schnauzer is known for being friendly, smart, obedient, making them excellent family dogs. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to different lifestyles, though they still need regular exercise.
Saint Bernard Temperament
The Saint Bernard is characterized by being playful, charming, inquisitive, which makes them great companions for families. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They're naturally cautious around strangers, which enhances their ability to serve as watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them versatile companions that can adapt to your activity level, though regular exercise is still important.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Miniature Schnauzer and Saint Bernard, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Miniature Schnauzer
Rating: 5/5
Saint Bernard
Rating: 5/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Miniature Schnauzer
Rating: 3/5
Saint Bernard
Rating: 3/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Miniature Schnauzer
Rating: 3/5
Saint Bernard
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Miniature Schnauzer
Rating: 1/5
Saint Bernard
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Miniature Schnauzer
Rating: 5/5
Saint Bernard
Rating: 3/5
Care & Maintenance
Miniature Schnauzer Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Miniature Schnauzers require moderate daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Miniature Schnauzers require frequent grooming. This includes brushing several times per week to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is recommended.
Saint Bernard Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Saint Bernards need regular daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Saint Bernards require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Miniature Schnauzer Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Pancreatitis
- Cataracts
- Urolithiasis
- Myotonia
- Entropion
Saint Bernard Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Bloat
- Heart Issues
- Eye Problems
- Elbow Dysplasia
Pros & Cons
Miniature Schnauzer
Pros
- Intelligent and easily trainable
- Good with families
- Minimal shedding
- Alert watchdog
- Adaptable to various living situations
Cons
- Regular professional grooming needed
- Can be vocal
- May chase small animals
- Stubborn streak
- Requires consistent training
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
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Miniature Schnauzer and Saint Bernard, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.