If you’re interested in the Newfoundland dog breed, you might be wondering how its size compares to that of other popular dogs. This is a breed known for falling into the ‘giant’ dog category, after all!
Keep reading for a Newfoundland dog size comparison to hopefully help you figure out whether this is the right dog for you.
How big is a Newfoundland dog?
As mentioned in the Newfoundland dog breed care guide, the Newfoundland is classified as a giant breed. This means it exceeds 45 kilograms (100 pounds) in weight, putting it in the same category as other giants like the Saint Bernard, Irish Wolfhound and Great Pyrenees.
In the case of the Newfoundland, it can actually far surpass that 100 pound guideline. According to the American Kennel Club standard, female Newfoundlands weigh between 100-120 pounds, while males can make it all the way up to 150 pounds. Their height is between 26 to 28 inches (to the shoulder).
Did you know? Many giant dog breeds, including the Newfoundland, are actually getting larger and larger due to selective breeding.
Newfoundland dog size comparison
If the numbers we listed above don’t really mean anything to you, we get it. Us humans are visual beings! That’s why we made a Newfoundland dog size comparison infographic so you can really see how this breed compares to other popular dogs.
Did you know? Other dog breeds that are similar in size to the Newfoundland include the Bernese Mountain dog (generally slightly smaller), the Great Pyrenees (generally slightly larger) and Saint Bernard (also generally slightly larger).
Is a Newfoundland dog for you?
Although the Newfoundland is not as big as the ultra giants like the Great Dane or Irish Wolfhound, they’re still a force to be reckoned with. Despite the fact that they’re a very gentle breed, their size is still something to keep in mind if you’re interested in adding one to your family.
For one, proper training is absolutely crucial for such a large dog. Not in the least because Newfoundlands are not just big, they’re also notoriously strong, owing to their history as a working breed. They’re not known for being aggressive, but the issue is that they’re often completely unaware of their own size and power! A jumping Newfoundland dog can easily knock over an adult.
Aside from the training factor, you should also remember that a big dog means lots of food and big dog supplies, which can put a strain on your budget.
Lastly, a sad note that you might want to take into consideration is that large dog breeds like the Newfoundland don’t tend to have a great lifespan. This breed tends to live for around 9-10 years and does have its fair share of health issues, which can be heartbreaking if you’re not prepared (and are you ever really?).
Conclusion
The Newfoundland dog breed truly is a gentle giant. If you have the space, budget and training experience to accommodate such a large dog, they can make amazing companions and true friends.
If you’d like to share your own thoughts on this Newfoundland dog size comparison or your experiences with this loving breed, don’t hesitate to leave a comment!
