Saint Bernard vs. Shepherd Pit: Breed Differences and Similarities

Saint Bernard

Saint Bernard

Shepherd Pit

Shepherd Pit

Hypoallergenic

Are Saint Bernards or Shepherd Pits hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Saint Bernard nor Shepherd Pit are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Saint Bernard and Shepherd Pit dogs?

Friendly
Independent
Going
Social
Gentle
Happy
Quiet

Curious
Stubborn
Clownish
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Affectionate
Obedient
Loyal
Strong
Willed
Aggressive
Watchful

Shedding Level

Do Saint Bernards shed more than Shepherd Pits, or which breed sheds more, Saint Bernards or Shepherd Pits?

4 / 5

Saint Bernard or Shepherd Pit dogs are heavy shedders, they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Saint Bernard or Shepherd Pit. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.

Origin

What is the origin of Saint Bernard and Shepherd Pit dog breeds?

Switzerland

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Saint Bernard and Shepherd Pit breeds?

tibetan mastiff, great dane, greater swiss mountain dog, great pyrenees

German Shepherd, American Pit Bull Terrier

Date of Birth

When were Saint Bernard and Shepherd Pit breeds first developed?

980 AD

2000's

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Saint Bernard and Shepherd Pit?

A Saint Bernard can have a litter of 8-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Shepherd Pit can have a litter of 6-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

4 / 5

The adaptability of Saint Bernard and Shepherd Pit dogs is a well-known trait. They are known for being able to adjust well to different living environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Saint Bernard and Shepherd Pit, which breed is more prone to health problems?

5 / 5

The Saint Bernard breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

3 / 5

While the Shepherd Pit breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Saint Bernard and Shepherd Pit breeds?

Distichiasis
Gastric Torsion
Elbow Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia
Heart Problems
Wobbler's Syndrome

Demodicosis
Panosteitis
Hip Dysplasia
Pannus
Perianal Fistulas
Hemophilia
Degenerative Myelopathy
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency
Renal Cystadenocarcinoma and Nodular Dermatofibrosis

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Saint Bernard and Shepherd Pit?

Entropion
Pyotraumatic Dermatitis
Diabetes

Elbow Dysplasia
Hemivertebrae
Von Willebrand's Disease
Cleft Lip or Palate
Footpad Disorder
Cervical Vertebral Instability
Cutaneous Asthenia
Idiopathic Epilepsy
Mitral Valve Dysplasia
Eye Conditions

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Saint Bernard and Shepherd Pit breeds?

Cardiac
Eye
Hip
Elbow
Blood Test
Blood And Urine Protein Screens
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Dna For Pra
Eye Examinations
Blood Tests
Full Physical Examination regarding joint movement around the hip and kneecap
DNA for VWD
Heart Testing

Social Needs

Saint Bernard vs Shepherd Pit social needs comparison

5 / 5

Saint Bernard has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

4 / 5

Shepherd Pit has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Saint Bernard or Shepherd Pit?

4 / 5

Saint Bernards are known for their relaxed and calm nature and enjoy long periods of sleep.

2 / 5

Shepherd Pits sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Saint Bernard vs Shepherd Pit?

1 / 5

5 / 5

Roaming urge

Saint Bernard vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

1 / 5

3 / 5

Prey Drive

Saint Bernard or Shepherd Pit - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

1 / 5

4 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Saint Bernard and Shepherd Pit entertained?

Walk, Walking, Calm, Run, Chase, Fetch, Sniffing, Dog Parks, Cuddling, Napping, Zoomies, Fech

Relaxing, Hike, Swim, Hide and seek, Cuddling, Car ride, Playing fetch, Car rides, Go for walks, Fetch, Walk, Digging, Dog Parks, Jogging, Tracking, Shake, Tug-of-war

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

2 / 5

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Saint Bernards or Shepherd Pits?

3 / 5

The Saint Bernard requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

2 / 5

The Shepherd Pit has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

Sensitivity Level

How do Saint Bernard and Shepherd Pit compare in sensitivity?

5 / 5

These dog breeds are particularly attuned to its environment and the emotions of those around it. Saint Bernard and Shepherd Pit can be easily overwhelmed by loud noises, new environments, unfamiliar people, or animals. This dog breed is best suited for individuals or families who are patient, gentle, and understanding of its sensitive nature. It may also benefit from a calm and stable home environment, with a consistent routine and plenty of positive reinforcement training.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Saint Bernard or Shepherd Pit?

3 / 5

Saint Bernards and Shepherd Pits are dogs that do well in apartments with sufficient exercise, but they would really appreciate a small yard.

Child Friendly

Do Saint Bernards or Shepherd Pits have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Saint Bernards are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

5 / 5

Shepherd Pits make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Saint Bernard or Shepherd Pit?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Saint Bernard or Shepherd Pit breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

5 / 5

Saint Bernards are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

2 / 5

Shepherd Pits are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Saint Bernard or Shepherd Pit?

5 / 5

Saint Bernards are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

2 / 5

Shepherd Pits are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Pet friendly

How do Saint Bernard or Shepherd Pit dogs interact with other pets?

5 / 5

2 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Saint Bernard or Shepherd Pit?

3 / 5

Saint Bernards are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

4 / 5

Shepherd Pits are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Saint Bernard and Shepherd Pit?

2 / 5

Saint Bernards are not known for being a highly playful breed.

4 / 5

Shepherd Pits are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Saint Bernards and Shepherd Pits compare?

2 / 5

Saint Bernards may require more time and patience to learn commands, but with consistency, they can be trained.

4 / 5

Shepherd Pits are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

Compare Saint Bernard with other breeds