Silkin vs. Saint Bernese: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Silkins or Saint Berneses hypoallergenic, or neither?

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

Temperament

What are the personalities of Silkin and Saint Bernese dogs?

Playful
Loving
Independent
Alert
Intelligent
Friendly
Responsive
Loyal
Quick
Joyful
Inquisitive

Independent
Happy
Intelligent
Friendly
Affectionate
Loyal
Gentle
Going
Social
Quiet
Faithful

Shedding Level

Do Silkins shed more than Saint Berneses, or which breed sheds more, Silkins or Saint Berneses?

2 / 5

Silkins are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

4 / 5

Saint Berneses are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Silkin or Saint Bernese?

1 / 5

Avoid Silkins as watchdogs - they're not effective.

4 / 5

Saint Berneses make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Silkin and Saint Bernese breeds?

Silky Terrier, Japanese Chin

Saint Bernard and Bernese Mountain Dog

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Silkin and Saint Bernese?

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DBR = Designer Breed Registry
DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Silkin and Saint Bernese breeds first developed?

Unknown

1990s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Silkin and Saint Bernese dogs?

Brown

Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Silkin and Saint Bernese?

Black
Brown

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Silkin and Saint Bernese breeds?

Black
Brown
White
Cream

White
Brown
Black
Pied
Isabella
Cream

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Silkin and Saint Bernese breeds?

3 / 5

The coat of Silkin and Saint Bernese dogs falls in the medium-length category.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Silkin and Saint Bernese?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Silkin and Saint Bernese?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Silkin and Saint Bernese?

A Silkin can have a litter of 3-5 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 Saint Bernese can have a litter of 1-14 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 Silkin and Saint Bernese 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 Silkin and Saint Bernese, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

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

5 / 5

The Saint Bernese 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.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Silkin and Saint Bernese breeds?

Ear Infections
Patellar Luxation
Cataracts
Diabetes

Canine Hip Dysplasia (Chd)
Von Willebrand's Disease
Cancer
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat
Spinal Issues

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Silkin and Saint Bernese?

Hip Dysplasia
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Heart Murmur
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Allergies
Obesity
Eye Infections
Eye Conditions

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Silkin and Saint Bernese breeds?

Physical Examination
Blood Count
X-rays or other radiographic imaging
Eye and Ear Examination

Eye Examinations
Urinalysis
Complete Blood Count
Buccal Mucosal Screening
Complete Ophthalmologic Examination
Full Body Physical Examination
Skin Biopsy or Intradermal Tests for specific allergies
Skin Scrapings and Biopsies
X-rays or other radiographic imaging
Electrocardiograph (ECG - measures rate and rhythm)

Energy

How do the energy levels of Silkins and Saint Berneses compare?

3 / 5

For those who lead a balanced lifestyle, Silkin and Saint Bernese breeds may be a good choice as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

Silkin vs Saint Bernese social needs comparison

5 / 5

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

4 / 5

Saint Bernese has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Silkin vs Saint Bernese exercise need comparison.

1 / 5

Silkins require minimal physical activity for a healthy lifestyle.

4 / 5

Saint Berneses require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Silkin or Saint Bernese?

4 / 5

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

3 / 5

Saint Berneses have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Tendency to Bark

Do Silkins or Saint Berneses bark more/less frequently?

1 / 5

Silkin and Saint Berneses are known to bark very little or not at all. They tend to be very quiet and do not bark excessively. They may only bark in specific situations, such as when they need to alert their owner to something important or when they are in distress.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Silkin vs Saint Bernese?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Roaming urge

Silkin vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

2 / 5

Prey Drive

Silkin or Saint Bernese - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

3 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Silkins or Saint Berneses?

Silkins are low-energy dogs. This breed make a great companion for a relatively inactive person. Silkin dogs require a few short daily walks, and then they're happy snuggling next to you for the rest of the day.

Saint Berneses are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Silkin or Saint Bernese walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Silkin, it's at least 7 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Saint Bernese, it's at least 12 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Silkins or Saint Berneses require more exercise?

In general most Silkins usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Saint Berneses usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Silkins or Saint Berneses?

4 / 5

Silkins require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

3 / 5

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

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Silkin and Saint Bernese dogs?

Ideally, both Silkin and Saint Bernese should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) to improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Silkins and Saint Berneses?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Silkin or Saint Bernese in cups?

For an average 8-11 pound (4 - 5 kg) Silkin feed 1.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 120-180 pound (54 - 82 kg) Saint Bernese feed 3.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Silkin or Saint Bernese?

The average cost of a Silkin is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

The average cost of a Saint Bernese is somewhere $3.90 - $4.20 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Silkin or Saint Bernese?

The average per month expenses of a Silkin is between $28 - $42. This makes an average of $336 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of a Saint Bernese is between $112 - $126. This makes an average of $1344 - $1512 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Silkins vs Saint Berneses

3 / 5

Silkin and Saint Bernese have average obedience intelligence, but they're also independent thinkers. This breed is known for having an exceptionally high IQ, which means they may get into trouble if left to their own devices.

Sensitivity Level

How do Silkin and Saint Bernese compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Silkin vs Saint Bernese?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Silkin or Saint Bernese?

5 / 5

Silkins make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

3 / 5

Saint Berneses are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Child Friendly

Do Silkins or Saint Berneses have a friendlier temperament towards children?

3 / 5

Silkins have an average level of friendliness towards children.

4 / 5

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

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Silkin or Saint Bernese?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Silkin or Saint Bernese breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

4 / 5

Silkins and Saint Berneses are one of the best dogs for cats. They accept cats readily as part of the family. However, this dog breed should be trained to not chase after the kitty early on

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Silkin or Saint Bernese?

3 / 5

Silkins are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

4 / 5

Saint Berneses are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Pet friendly

How do Silkin or Saint Bernese dogs interact with other pets?

4 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Silkin or Saint Bernese?

4 / 5

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

3 / 5

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

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Silkin and Saint Bernese?

4 / 5

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

3 / 5

Saint Berneses have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Silkins and Saint Berneses compare?

4 / 5

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

3 / 5

Saint Berneses are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.