Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are giant working dogs known for a sweet temperament, impressive strength, and a love of water. They are often calm and gentle with families, which makes them popular as “nanny dog” companions when properly trained and supervised. Their thick coat and large size require dedicated grooming, and they can drool. Newfoundlands need steady, low-impact exercise and early training for manners. Thoughtful care helps them become, they are affectionate giants who thrive on companionship and calm routines.
The Newfoundland is a giant dog in the Working group, known for Gentle, Patient, Sweet. Adults typically weigh 100-150 lbs and stand 26-28 in, with a lifespan around 9-10 years.
Quick facts
- Group: Working
- Size: giant
- Lifespan: 9-10 years
- Weight: 100-150 lbs
- Height: 26-28 in
- Temperament: Gentle, Patient, Sweet, Good-natured
Temperament & day-to-day life
Temperament helps you predict what daily life with this breed may feel like. The Newfoundland is often described as Gentle, Patient, Sweet, Good-natured. Individual dogs vary, but these traits are a solid starting point when you’re planning training, enrichment, and routines.
If you’re researching this breed because you’re trying to identify your own dog, use temperament as supporting evidence—not the final verdict. Compare size, proportions, and behavior patterns, then confirm with a photo using the AI dog breed identifier.
Training & exercise
Working breeds were developed for jobs like guarding, rescue, pulling, and protection. They’re often powerful, steady, and thrive with structure.
Clear boundaries and predictable routines help. Focus on engagement, impulse control, and rewarding calm behavior as much as high drive.
Most working dogs need both physical exercise and purposeful tasks. Strength and athleticism should be matched with thoughtful training.
History
Newfoundlands originated in Canada, where they assisted fishermen by hauling nets and performing water rescues. Their strength and swimming ability became hallmarks of the breed.
Care tips
Good care is less about perfection and more about consistency. Start with simple routines you can keep up—daily movement, a predictable feeding plan, and regular check-ins for ears, nails, and skin.
- Brush frequently to manage the thick coat and reduce mats.
- Provide joint-friendly exercise like swimming and steady walks.
- Train manners early—giant size requires reliability in public.
- Watch for overheating; large coated dogs do best in cooler weather.
- Discuss bloat risk prevention strategies with your veterinarian.
Similar breeds to compare
Many breeds share similar silhouettes and features. If you’re comparing AI results or deciding between breeds, it helps to read a few profiles side by side. Common look-alikes and close cousins to the Newfoundland include Saint Bernard, Bernese Mountain Dog, Great Dane, Chesapeake Bay Retriever.
When you compare, focus on structure (muzzle length, ear set, body proportions) as much as coat color. Then confirm by looking at temperament and daily care needs.
FAQ
How big do Newfoundlands get?
Most adult Newfoundlands fall around 100-150 lbs and stand 26-28 in. Genetics, diet, and activity level all influence where an individual dog lands within that range.
How long do Newfoundlands live?
The typical lifespan is 9-10 years. Preventive vet care, healthy weight, and consistent daily exercise are some of the biggest factors that support longevity.
What is the Newfoundland temperament like?
Many owners describe this breed as Gentle, Patient, Sweet, Good-natured. Early socialization and reward-based training help those traits show up as calm confidence at home and on walks.
How can I identify a Newfoundland from a photo?
Upload a clear photo (ideally with the full body visible) to our dog breed identifier. Use the results as a starting point, then compare likely matches in the breed directory.