English Mastiff vs Saint Bernard

Side-by-side comparison of two popular breeds — temperament, exercise, grooming, lifespan and common health issues. Use it to decide which breed fits your home.

English Mastiff vs Saint Bernard — at a glance

The English Mastiff (54–104 kg, 6–10 years) and the Saint Bernard (64–82 kg, 8–10 years) sit in different — or sometimes overlapping — corners of dog ownership. Here's how they really compare for an everyday Irish or UK family.

Both breeds have similar energy demands — Saint Bernard tips slightly higher but neither is a couch dog.

Grooming is where these breeds really diverge: the Saint Bernard needs significantly more brushing, washing and coat care. Factor in €30–€80 every 6–8 weeks for a professional groomer if you don't do it yourself.

Insurance premiums for breeds with brachycephalic, joint or cancer predispositions run 20–40% above average — check before you commit. We have a free quote calculator here.

	English Mastiff	Saint Bernard
Group	Working	Working
Origin	England	Switzerland
Weight	54–104 kg	64–82 kg
Height	70–84 cm	66–76 cm
Lifespan	6–10 years	8–10 years
Energy level
Trainability
Grooming needs
Good with kids
Good with other pets
Hypoallergenic
Watchdog instinct
Novice-owner OK

English Mastiff

Temperament

Calm, affectionate, dignified, protective. Mastiffs are famously good with children of their own family. Wary of strangers but rarely aggressive — they tend to body-block rather than attack.

Exercise

30–45 minutes a day of moderate walking. Heavy-bodied breeds shouldn't jog or run on hard surfaces. Puppies must avoid impact until 18 months+.

Grooming

Short coat, weekly brush. Drool prevention bibs help.

Health

Bloat / GDV. Hip / elbow dysplasia. Cardiomyopathy. Cancers (lymphoma, osteosarcoma). Eye conditions. Lifespan 6–10 years.

Full English Mastiff profile →

Saint Bernard

Temperament

Gentle, patient, friendly, quiet. Saints are renowned for their tolerance with children and other animals. They're slow to mature mentally — expect puppy behaviour for years.

Exercise

45–60 minutes of moderate daily exercise in cool weather. Heat-sensitive — limit summer exercise.

Grooming

Long-haired and short-haired varieties. Long: brush 3× weekly. Short: weekly brush. Drool requires bibs.

Health

Hip and elbow dysplasia. Bloat / GDV. Cardiomyopathy. Cancers. Wobbler syndrome. Heat stroke.

Full Saint Bernard profile →

Which is right for you?

Pick the English Mastiff if

Calm households with space, owners who can budget for giant-breed care.

Pick the Saint Bernard if

Families with children, large homes, cool climates.

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