American Pit Bull Terrier vs Saint Bernard

Which dog breed is right for you?

American Pit Bull Terrier

Size
30–65 lbs, 17–21 in
Lifespan
12–16 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
No
Affectionate Energetic Confident Loyal

Saint Bernard

Size
120–180 lbs, 26–30 in
Lifespan
8–10 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Gentle Patient Watchful Friendly

About the American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier traces its roots to 19th-century England, where Bulldogs and Terriers were crossed to create a dog combining strength with agility. Standing 17–21 inches tall and weighing 30–60 pounds, the APBT is a medium-sized, solidly built dog with a broad chest and well-defined musculature. Their short, glossy coat comes in virtually every color and pattern — including blue, red, brindle, and merle — and is exceptionally easy to maintain.

Temperament & Personality

Despite their often-misunderstood reputation, American Pit Bull Terriers are among the most people-oriented breeds — they are affectionate, eager to please, and frequently described as "nanny dogs" for their gentleness with children. They are intelligent, loyal, and enthusiastic about training when given positive reinforcement. However, some individuals may exhibit dog-selectivity, and responsible ownership includes understanding their terrier-driven tenacity.

Pros

  • Extremely affectionate and loyal — they bond deeply with every family member
  • Highly trainable and eager to please, excelling in obedience and nosework
  • Low grooming needs with their short, easy-care coat
  • Athletic and energetic — outstanding companion for active lifestyles

Cons

  • Subject to breed-specific legislation and housing restrictions in many areas
  • May develop dog-selectivity, requiring careful management around other dogs
  • Strong and powerful — not ideal for physically frail owners
  • Prone to skin allergies, hip dysplasia, and congenital heart disease

These loving, misunderstood dogs deserve wonderful homes — browse adoptable Pit Bull Terriers on Puplister today.

About the Saint Bernard

The Saint Bernard originated in the Swiss Alps at the Great St. Bernard Hospice, where monks bred these massive dogs for over 1,000 years to locate and rescue travelers lost in snowstorms along the treacherous mountain pass. Males typically stand 28 to 30 inches tall and weigh 140 to 180 pounds, though individuals exceeding 200 pounds are not uncommon. Their coat comes in two varieties — short-haired (smooth) and long-haired (rough) — both in white with red, mahogany, brindle, or brown markings.

Temperament & Personality

Saint Bernards are gentle, patient, and extraordinarily tolerant — their legendary devotion to humans extends to being remarkably careful and nurturing around children despite their massive size. They are friendly with strangers, other dogs, and household pets, possessing a calm, unflappable demeanor that makes them wonderful therapy dogs. While not aggressive, their sheer size and deep bark are often enough to deter unwanted visitors.

Pros

  • Exceptionally gentle and patient — one of the best giant breeds for families with children
  • Calm, low-energy indoor demeanor despite enormous size
  • Friendly and non-aggressive toward people and other animals
  • Imposing presence provides natural deterrent without guard training

Cons

  • Legendary drooling — especially the loose-lipped, heavy-jowled individuals
  • Short lifespan of 8 to 10 years, with some living even less
  • Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, osteosarcoma, and dilated cardiomyopathy
  • Enormous food costs and substantial space requirements for comfortable living

Few breeds embody devotion quite like the Saint Bernard — find one in need of a loving home on Puplister.

Available for Adoption

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a American Pit Bull Terrier and a Saint Bernard?
The American Pit Bull Terrier is 30–65 lbs, 17–21 in sized while the Saint Bernard is 120–180 lbs, 26–30 in sized. They differ in size (30–65 lbs, 17–21 in vs 120–180 lbs, 26–30 in), lifespan (12–16 years vs 8–10 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, American Pit Bull Terrier or Saint Bernard?
American Pit Bull Terrier is generally good with kids. Saint Bernard is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, American Pit Bull Terrier or Saint Bernard?
The American Pit Bull Terrier has a lifespan of 12–16 years while the Saint Bernard has a lifespan of 8–10 years.

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