Irish Wolfhound vs Saint Bernard
A side-by-side comparison to help you find the right breed for your lifestyle.
Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is a giant breed known for its impressive size, gentle demeanor, and rich history as a hunting companion in Ireland. Renowned for their loyalty and calm temperament, these dogs are both majestic and affectionate, making them great family pets.
Extra Large
High
6-8 years yrs
N/A
Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is a large, gentle dog breed known for its impressive size, friendly demeanor, and history as a rescue dog in the Swiss Alps. Renowned for their loyalty and affectionate nature, these dogs make excellent family companions and are easily recognizable by their distinctive, expressive faces and thick, warm coats.
Extra Large
Medium
8-10 yrs
N/A
Quick Comparison
| Trait | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming Needs | ||
| Family Friendly | ||
| Independence |
Key Characteristics
| Good with Kids | ||
| Good with Dogs | ||
| Good with Cats | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Apartment Friendly | ||
| First-Time Owner OK |
| Detail | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Extra Large | Extra Large |
| Energy Level | High | Medium |
| Grooming | Medium | High |
| Trainability | Moderate | challenging |
| Barking Level | Low | High |
| Shedding Level | Medium | High |
| Chew strength | Hard | Hard |
| Housing | Acreage | Yard |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Beginner | Experienced |
| First-Time Owner | ||
| Ideal Owner | Active individual or family who can provide adequate exercise and training for a Irish Wolfhound. | Active individual or family who can provide adequate exercise and training for a Saint Bernard. |
Irish Wolfhound Dealbreakers
- Cannot meet 60-90 min daily exercise
- Cannot commit to grooming needs
Saint Bernard Dealbreakers
- Cannot meet 30-60 min daily exercise
- Cannot tolerate heavy shedding
Surrender Risk
| Factor | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Level | Medium | Medium |
| Primary Reasons | Underestimated exercise needs, Behavioral challenges, Cost of care | Underestimated exercise needs, Behavioral challenges, Cost of care |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | Low | High |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | Low | Low |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Low | Low |
Irish Wolfhound Social Traits
Low
Generally friendly
Saint Bernard Social Traits
Moderate
Generally friendly
Training
Irish Wolfhound
- ** They are sensitive and shut down with harsh correction. Positive reinforcement is the only viable method.
Saint Bernard
- ** Positive reinforcement is mandatory. They are sensitive souls; harsh corrections will cause them to shut down or become fearful.
Irish Wolfhound Considerations
Despite their calm demeanor indoors, these are powerful hunters. Their prey drive is triggered by movement. A squirrel, cat, or small dog running across a field can trigger an explosive chase response that is nearly impossible to stop with verbal commands once engaged. They are generally with small running animals unless raised with them, and even then, instinct can override training.
Wolfhounds are deeply bonding "velcro" dogs. They do not thrive in isolation and can suffer severe separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. This can manifest in destructive chewing, which, given their jaw size, can destroy drywall, furniture, and doors in minutes.
Between 6 and 18 months, a Wolfhound is essentially a 100lb+ puppy with poor coordination and high energy. They can be mouthy and destructive. Their counter-surfing ability is unmatched; they can reach the back of kitchen counters without lifting their paws off the floor.
Saint Bernard Considerations
Despite their size, Saints are profoundly needy. They do not tolerate isolation well and can develop destructive separation anxiety. A 160lb dog with anxiety can destroy drywall, doors, and furniture in minutes.
While benevolent, they are not blindly obedient like a Golden Retriever. They possess a slow-burning stubbornness; if a Saint Bernard decides not to move, you cannot physically force them. This requires patience and psychological motivation rather than physical correction.
Between 8 and 24 months, they are essentially giant, clumsy puppies. They can unintentionally knock over children, grandparents, and furniture. Leash manners must be solidified before they reach full weight, or they will become dangerous to walk.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | Caution - may chase | Generally safe with proper introduction |
| Small Mammals | Supervision required | Supervision required |
| Birds / Reptiles | Caution advised | Caution advised |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Medium | Medium |
| Biddability | Low | Low |
| Noise Sensitivity | Low | Low |
| Territorial Barking | ||
| Same-Sex Aggression Onset | 18 months | 18 months |
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 6-18 | 6-18 |
| House Training | Challenging | Challenging |
| Crate Training | Medium | Medium |
| Adolescent Regression |
Irish Wolfhound: Irish Wolfhound puppies require consistent training and patience.
Saint Bernard: Saint Bernard puppies require consistent training and patience.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 12 months | 12 months |
| Adolescence | 6-18 | 6-18 |
| Adult Years | 2-8 | 2-8 |
| Senior Onset | ~8 years | ~8 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 1-3 years | 1-3 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Height | N/A | N/A |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Extra Large | Extra Large |
| Lifespan | 6–8 years | 8–10 years |
| Litter Size | 4-8 | 4-8 |
Irish Wolfhound Coat
Saint Bernard Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | The Irish Wolfhound is an ancient breed, originally used in Ireland to hunt wolves and the giant Iri | The Saint Bernard was developed by monks at the Great St |
| Origin | N/A | N/A |
Breeding Details
| Detail | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | Varies | Varies |
| Whelping Difficulty | Medium | Medium |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Low | Low |
Physical Risks
| Risk | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | Low | Low |
| Slippery Floor Risk | Low | Low |
| Min Fence Height | 1.5m | 1.5m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Low | Low |
Health & Common Conditions
Irish Wolfhound Health Issues
Saint Bernard Health Issues
Irish Wolfhound Suggested Tests
- Prophylactic gastropexy
- Annual cardiologist screening (DCM)
- Bile acid test (PSS)
- Heart disease (echo)
- Eye clearances
- Hip/Elbow clearances
Saint Bernard Suggested Tests
- OFA/PennHIP certifications for hips and elbows
- Ophthalmologist clearances for eyes
- Cardiac exams for heart health
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Medium | Medium |
| Cardiac Risk | Low | Low |
| Neurological Risk | Low | Low |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | Low | Low |
| Vet Burden Tier | Medium | Medium |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Low | Low |
| Food Allergies |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Normal |
| Eye Care Needs | Low | Low |
| Anal Gland Issues | Occasional | Occasional |
Senior Care & Aging
Irish Wolfhound Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis
- Vision decline
- Cognitive changes
Senior care varies by individual health.
Saint Bernard Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis
- Vision decline
- Cognitive changes
Senior care varies by individual health.
Grooming & Care
Irish Wolfhound
medium maintenanceSaint Bernard
high maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
Irish Wolfhound Daily Life
Saint Bernard Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | Under 50lbs | Under 50lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | Medium | Medium |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Good |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | Low | Low |
| Therapy Dog | Low | Low |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Low | Low |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | N/A | N/A |
| Initial Cost Range | $1,000–$2,500 | $1,000–$2,500 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $250–$550 | $180–$330 |
| Yearly Range | $3,000–$6,600 | $2,160–$3,960 |
| Food / Month | $150-300 | $100-180 |
| Insurance / Month | $100-250 | $80-150 |
| Grooming / Session | N/A | N/A |
| Vet Routine / Year | $50-80 | $500-800 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
Irish Wolfhound Lifetime Cost
N/A
Saint Bernard Lifetime Cost
N/A
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | Irish Wolfhound | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Occasional | Occasional |
| Slobber Level | Low | Low |
| Smell When Wet | Moderate | Moderate |
| Zoomies Frequency | Occasional | Occasional |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | Low | Low |
Frequently Asked Questions
Turn your dog into a brand deal.
Pet brands are looking for authentic creators — not celebrities. If you own a Irish Wolfhound or Saint Bernard, you can get free products, gear, and exclusive perks just for sharing your dog's life on Instagram.
No followers minimum · Free to join
Compare with Other Breeds
Compare Irish Wolfhound with:
Based on comprehensive breed research data.