Poodle vs Saint Bernard
Side-by-side comparison: temperament, exercise, grooming, health, and cost of ownership.
Poodle
One of the most intelligent dog breeds, the Poodle combines elegance with athleticism. Their hypoallergenic curly coat and keen mind make them ideal for allergy sufferers who want a trainable companion.
VS
Saint Bernard
A massive, gentle rescue dog from the Swiss Alps with a heart as big as its body. Saint Bernards are patient, friendly, and wonderful with children despite their enormous size.
Quick Answer
Choose Poodle if you want easier to train and more apartment-friendly. Choose Saint Bernard if you want better with kids.
Quick Comparison
Poodle
Attribute
Saint Bernard
medium
Size
giant
18–32 kg (40–71 lbs)
Weight
54–82 kg (119–181 lbs)
38–61 cm (15–24 in)
Height
65–90 cm (26–35 in)
Better12–15 yrs
Lifespan
8–10 yrs
Better5/5
Trainability
3/5
4/5
Energy
2/5
4/5
Good with Kids
5/5Better
Better1/5
Shedding
4/5
5/5
Grooming
3/5Better
Better3/5
Apartment
1/5
Better4/5
Health
1/5
$1,000–$3,000
Price
$1,000–$3,000
Attribute Comparison
Health Profile: Poodle and Saint Bernard Compared
Poodle tends to be the healthier breed overall.
Poodle
Saint Bernard
Lifespan (years)
Better12–15
vs8–10
Health Robustness
Better4/5
vs1/5
The lifespan difference is significant. Poodles live 12–15 years on average, while Saint Bernards live 8–10 years.
Poodle and Saint Bernard: Size and Appearance Compared
Saint Bernard is the larger breed; Poodle is more compact.
Poodle
Saint Bernard
Weight (kg)
18–32
vs54–82
Height (cm)
38–61
vs65–90
Size is one of the most obvious contrasts between these breeds. The Saint Bernard tips the scales at 54–82 kg (119–181 lbs), dwarfing the Poodle's 18–32 kg (40–71 lbs).
Exercise Needs: Poodle vs Saint Bernard
Poodle needs more exercise; Saint Bernard is lower-maintenance.
Poodle
Saint Bernard
Energy Level
4/5
vs2/5
Exercise Needs
4/5
vs2/5
Apartment Friendly
Better3/5
vs1/5
Activity needs are dramatically different here. The Poodle has high energy (4/5) and needs high exercise (4/5) — think long runs, hiking, or agility courses.
Temperament: Poodle vs Saint Bernard
Saint Bernard is calmer; Poodle is more energetic.
Poodle
Saint Bernard
Playfulness
Better5/5
vs3/5
Barking Level
3/5
vs2/5Better
Energy
4/5
vs2/5
When you live with a Poodle, you'll notice their intelligent, elegant and athletic character in everything they do. A Saint Bernard, by contrast, shows a gentle, friendly and patient nature.
Grooming Differences: Poodle and Saint Bernard
Saint Bernard sheds more; Poodle is easier to maintain.
Poodle
Saint Bernard
Shedding
Better1/5
vs4/5
Grooming Needs
5/5
vs3/5Better
Shedding is a major differentiator. The Saint Bernard is a prolific shedder (4/5) — expect fur on your clothes, furniture, and car seats year-round.
Which Is Easier to Train — Poodle or Saint Bernard?
Training difficulty is a major difference. The Poodle (5/5) is eager to please and picks up commands quickly — one of the most trainable breeds out there.
Which Costs More to Own — Poodle or Saint Bernard?
Poodle is less expensive to own annually.
Poodle
Avg. Purchase$2,000
Annual Food$600
Annual Vet$450
Annual Grooming$600
Annual Total$1,650 ✓
Saint Bernard
Avg. Purchase$2,000
Annual Food$1,200
Annual Vet$700
Annual Grooming$200
Annual Total$2,100
Both breeds cost a similar amount upfront — $1,000–$3,000 for a Poodle versus $1,000–$3,000 for a Saint Bernard. Where the real cost differences emerge is in ongoing expenses.
Family Fit: Poodle vs Saint Bernard With Kids and Other Pets
Saint Bernard is better suited for families with children.
Poodle
Saint Bernard
Good with Kids
4/5
vs5/5Better
Good with Dogs
4/5
vs4/5
Strangers
4/5
vs4/5
The Saint Bernard has a slight edge with children (5/5 vs 4/5). Both breeds can do well in families, but the Saint Bernard's gentle temperament gives it a small advantage around young kids.
Summary: Poodle or Saint Bernard?
The Poodle comes out ahead in most categories — it's easier to train (5/5 vs 3/5), more apartment-friendly (3/5), less shedding (1/5). If you can meet its high exercise needs and don't mind regular grooming, the Poodle is the more versatile choice for most households.
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Question 1 of 3
Do you have children at home?
The Verdict
The Poodle and Saint Bernard are both popular breeds, but they suit different lifestyles. The key differences: Poodle needs significantly more daily exercise than Saint Bernard, Saint Bernard sheds considerably more. Annual ownership costs are lower for the Poodle by roughly $500/year.
Choose Poodle if...
- ✓You're an active person who runs, hikes, or exercises daily — Poodles will keep up and thrive on that activity.
- ✓You hate vacuuming or have allergies — Poodles shed dramatically less (1/5 vs 4/5 shedding score).
- ✓This is your first dog — Poodles are easier to train and more forgiving of beginner mistakes.
- ✓Budget matters to you — Poodles cost roughly $500 less per year in food, vet, and grooming.
Choose Saint Bernard if...
- ✓You lead a quieter lifestyle — Saint Bernards are happy with shorter walks and less vigorous exercise.
Looking for more options?
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for families, Poodle or Saint Bernard?
The Saint Bernard is generally better with children, scoring 5/5 compared to the Poodle's 4/5. The Saint Bernard is one of our top-recommended breeds for families.
Is a Poodle or Saint Bernard easier to train?
The Poodle is easier to train with a score of 5/5, compared to the Saint Bernard's 3/5. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work well.
Which costs more, a Poodle or Saint Bernard?
A Poodle puppy costs $1,000–$3,000 while a Saint Bernard costs $1,000–$3,000. Annual maintenance runs about $1,650 for the Poodle and $2,100 for the Saint Bernard. The Saint Bernard costs more to maintain annually.
Do Poodles or Saint Bernards live longer?
The Poodle lives 12–15 years on average, while the Saint Bernard lives 8–10 years. The Poodle generally has a longer lifespan. Proper diet, exercise, and regular vet care help maximize lifespan for either breed.
Can a Poodle or Saint Bernard live in an apartment?
The Poodle is better suited for apartments (3/5) compared to the Saint Bernard (1/5). The Poodle is one of our top picks for apartment living.