Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a magnificent working breed originating from the island of Newfoundland off Canada's Atlantic coast, where it was developed to assist fishermen with hauling nets and pulling carts, whilst also excelling at water rescue in treacherous conditions.
This heritage has shaped the breed into a powerful, heavily built dog standing 65–75 centimetres at the shoulder and weighing 52–70 kilograms, with a broad head, gentle expression, and distinctive water-resistant double coat.
52-70kg
Weight
Large
Size
12-14yrs
Lifespan
About the Newfoundland
Available in black, brown, grey, or the striking Landseer pattern, the coat requires regular brushing to maintain its condition. Renowned as the gentle giant, the Newfoundland possesses an exceptionally calm and affectionate temperament, making it one of the most trusted breeds with children and families. These devoted companions are patient, loyal, and naturally sociable, adapting well to family life despite their substantial size. Surprisingly unboisterous indoors, they respond well to kind, consistent training. The breed requires moderate daily exercise, ideally including swimming, which they genuinely enjoy. With a lifespan of 12–14 years, Newfoundlands thrive when given plenty of human companionship and dislike prolonged periods alone. Their unwavering devotion and gentle nature make them exceptional family pets for those with space and time to dedicate to these remarkable dogs.
Newfoundland at a Glance
- Group
- Working
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 52–70 kg
- Height
- 65–75 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Medium
- Sheds
- Yes
- Exercise
- Up to 1 hour per day
- Typical price
- £1000–£2000
Newfoundland Temperament
The Newfoundland is one of the gentlest and most affectionate of all large breeds, renowned for its patience, loyalty, and calm nature. They are exceptionally good with children, often described as natural nursemaids, and generally get along well with other animals. Despite their substantial size, they are rarely boisterous indoors and adapt well to family life. They are willing and relatively easy to train, responding well to kind, consistent handling. Newfoundlands enjoy moderate exercise, including swimming, and need daily activity to stay healthy. Their devotion to their family is unwavering, and they dislike being left alone for long periods. A truly gentle giant in every sense.
Newfoundland Lifestyle
The Newfoundland suits a larger property where they have room to move and does best with a large outdoor space to burn off energy. They suit a country lifestyle better than city living.
Dog Food for Newfoundland
Top-rated foods for Large breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Recommended Food for Newfoundland
Newfoundland Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Newfoundland weighing around 61 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£9.01 - £9.60
Per month
£270 - £288
Per year
£3287 - £3504
Newfoundland Characteristics
The Newfoundland needs at least one good run or long walk every day and is highly trainable and learns new things fast. They are excellent with children of all ages, but can manage moderate periods alone. The coat requires significant time and effort to keep looking its best and produces a surprising amount of hair for its size. This is a very clever breed that benefits from puzzle toys and training to keep their mind busy.
Newfoundland Pros & Cons
Pros
- Wonderfully patient and gentle with children of all ages, a natural family dog
- Powerful swimmers with webbed feet and a water-resistant coat built for the water
- Loyal and protective without any aggressive tendencies
- Rarely barks without reason, making for a calm and peaceful companion at home
Cons
- Their dense double coat needs daily grooming to stay tangle-free and healthy
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone for long periods
- Feeding, bedding, and healthcare costs are all considerable given their size
- Not naturally alert watchdogs, so their protective instincts are fairly limited
