Golden Retriever vs Newfoundland
Sporting · Large vs Working · Giant
Golden RetrieverLarge
A friendly, intelligent, devoted gundog — the all-American family dog with a golden coat.
Weight: 65–75 lbsLifespan: 10–12 years
NewfoundlandGiant
A sweet, patient, devoted water-rescue dog — the gentle 'nanny dog' from Canada's Atlantic coast.
Weight: 130–150 lbsLifespan: 9–10 years
Quick take
- • Newfoundland is the larger breed at 130–150 lbs (males) vs 65–75 lbs for the Golden Retriever.
- • The Golden Retriever typically lives longer (10–12 years).
- • The Golden Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Golden Retriever is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Golden Retriever | Newfoundland |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Working |
Size | Large | Giant |
Origin | Scotland | Canada |
Height (male) | 23–24" | 28" |
Height (female) | 21.5–22.5" | 26" |
Weight (male) | 65–75 lbs | 130–150 lbs |
Weight (female) | 55–65 lbs | 100–120 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–12 years | 9–10 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Very High (5/5) | Low (2/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Low (2/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with strangers | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | medium | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
Ad slot · compare-mid
About the Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is a friendly, intelligent, devoted gundog — the all-American family dog with a golden coat. Originally from Scotland, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–75 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, intelligent, devoted.
About the Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a sweet, patient, devoted water-rescue dog — the gentle 'nanny dog' from Canada's Atlantic coast. Originally from Canada, this giant working breed typically weighs 130–150 lbs and lives 9–10 years. Breeders describe them as sweet, patient, devoted.
Ad slot · compare-bottom
Golden Retriever health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Cancer
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart disease
- • Skin conditions
Newfoundland health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart disease
- • Bloat
- • Cystinuria