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
🐶 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.
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.
