Side-by-Side IQ Profile
The Saint Bernard, a Working group dog, registers a Coren rank of #65, indicating a respectable capacity for learning. Its Problem Solving is 3/5, suggesting moderate ability to navigate novel situations independently. Training Speed, at 2/5, points to a slower acquisition of new commands, often requiring more repetition. Social Intelligence shines at 4/5, reflecting a strong understanding of human emotions and social cues, fostering deep bonds. A commanding Instinctive Drive of 5/5 highlights their powerful inherent motivations, historically linked to rescue work. Memory is 3/5, indicating solid recall of learned experiences.
The Norwegian Buhund, a Herding group dog, presents a balanced cognitive profile. Its Problem Solving ability stands at 3/5, showing average capacity for independent thought in new scenarios. Training Speed is 3/5, suggesting a quicker grasp of commands than the Saint Bernard, making them generally more responsive. Social Intelligence is 3/5, indicating a good but less outwardly demonstrative understanding of social dynamics. Instinctive Drive is also 3/5, reflecting natural herding tendencies without overwhelming intensity. Memory is 3/5, on par with the Saint Bernard, allowing for reliable retention of routines.
Where Saint Bernard Wins Cognitively
The Saint Bernard distinctly excels in Social Intelligence, scoring 4/5 compared to the Buhund's 3/5. This translates into profound empathy and sensitivity to human emotions, making them exceptionally attuned to their owners' moods and needs. This higher social aptitude means a Saint Bernard is often quicker to offer comfort or adjust its behavior based on subtle human cues, fostering a deeply connected relationship.
Furthermore, the Saint Bernard's Instinctive Drive is remarkably high at 5/5, surpassing the Buhund's 3/5. This signifies an intense, purpose-driven nature rooted in their historical roles of search and rescue and guardianship. While it demands appropriate channeling, this powerful internal motivation can make them incredibly dedicated and resilient in tasks aligning with their innate predispositions, such as pulling carts.
Where Norwegian Buhund Wins Cognitively
The Norwegian Buhund shows a clear advantage in Training Speed, rated 3/5 compared to the Saint Bernard's 2/5. This means a Buhund typically picks up new commands and routines more rapidly, often requiring fewer repetitions to solidify a behavior. This quicker learning curve can make initial obedience training a more fluid and rewarding experience for owners, enabling progress through training stages with greater efficiency.
While both breeds share a 3/5 rating in Problem Solving and Memory, the Buhund's overall cognitive balance, coupled with its quicker training speed, suggests a more adaptable intellect for varied learning environments. Its moderate Instinctive Drive (3/5) provides sufficient motivation for engagement without the overwhelming single-mindedness that a 5/5 drive can sometimes present, making them versatile.
Which is Easier to Train and Why
Based on their IQ profiles, the Norwegian Buhund is generally easier to train, primarily due to its higher Training Speed (3/5 vs. 2/5). Buhunds tend to grasp new concepts and commands with fewer repetitions, making training sessions more efficient and less prone to frustration. Their herding background also imbues them with a desire to work alongside humans and respond to direction, contributing to their trainability.
The Saint Bernard requires more patience and consistency. Its slower Training Speed means new behaviors need frequent reinforcement over longer periods. Furthermore, their powerful 5/5 Instinctive Drive, if not properly directed, can sometimes override learned commands in high-stimulus environments. Owners must harness this drive through positive reinforcement and clear boundaries to ensure cooperation and focus.
Which Suits Active Owners vs Relaxed Owners
For active owners seeking a canine partner for diverse activities, the Norwegian Buhund presents a compelling choice. Their balanced 3/5 Instinctive Drive, combined with moderate size and agility, makes them suitable for dog sports like agility and obedience. They thrive on mental and physical engagement, requiring regular exercise beyond a simple stroll to prevent boredom. Their quicker training speed also enables them to learn a wider repertoire of skills.
Conversely, for more relaxed owners who appreciate a calm, empathetic presence, the Saint Bernard often fits better. While they need regular, moderate exercise, their massive size and lower stamina mean they are not suited for intense, prolonged physical activity. Their exceptional 4/5 Social Intelligence makes them wonderful, sensitive companions content with being close to family, ideal for owners preferring a sedate pace of life who commit to consistent, patient training.
The Verdict
Opt for a Saint Bernard if you value a deeply empathetic, socially attuned companion with a powerful, purpose-driven nature, and you are prepared for patient, consistent training and moderate exercise.
Select a Norwegian Buhund if you desire an agile, quicker-to-train dog with a balanced drive, suited for varied activities and an owner who can provide consistent mental and physical engagement.
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Are Saint Bernards difficult to train due to their size?
While their size can make physical management challenging, their 2/5 Training Speed indicates they simply require more repetition and patience, not necessarily that they are "difficult." Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to effective Saint Bernard training.
Can a Norwegian Buhund live in an apartment?
A Norwegian Buhund could potentially live in an apartment if their significant exercise and mental stimulation needs are consistently met. Their 3/5 Instinctive Drive and moderate size mean they thrive with ample outdoor activity and engagement, so dedicated daily walks, play, and training are essential.
Which breed is better with children, Saint Bernard or Norwegian Buhund?
The Saint Bernard's 4/5 Social Intelligence often makes them exceptionally gentle and tolerant with children, understanding their cues well. The Norwegian Buhund, with 3/5 Social Intelligence, is generally good but might require more supervision to ensure their herding instincts don't lead to nipping at heels, especially with very young children.