Newfoundland vs Norfolk Terrier

Working · Giant vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Newfoundland is the larger breed at 130–150 lbs (males) vs 11–12 lbs for the Norfolk Terrier.
  • The Norfolk Terrier typically lives longer (12–16 years).
  • The Norfolk Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Norfolk Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitNewfoundlandNorfolk Terrier
Group
WorkingTerrier
Size
GiantSmall
Origin
CanadaEngland
Height (male)
28"9–10"
Height (female)
26"9–10"
Weight (male)
130–150 lbs11–12 lbs
Weight (female)
100–120 lbs11–12 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
9–10 years12–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very High (5/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very High (5/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
longwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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.

About the Norfolk Terrier

The Norfolk Terrier is a fearless, alert, gregarious drop-eared terrier — one of the smallest working terriers, fox-bolter. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 11–12 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as fearless, alert, gregarious.

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Newfoundland health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Cystinuria

Norfolk Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye problems