Newfoundland vs Russell Terrier

Working · Giant vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Newfoundland is the larger breed at 130–150 lbs (males) vs 9–15 lbs for the Russell Terrier.
  • The Russell Terrier typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Russell Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Russell Terrier sheds less.
  • The Newfoundland is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitNewfoundlandRussell Terrier
Group
WorkingTerrier
Size
GiantSmall
Origin
CanadaEngland
Height (male)
28"10–12"
Height (female)
26"10–12"
Weight (male)
130–150 lbs9–15 lbs
Weight (female)
100–120 lbs9–15 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
9–10 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very High (5/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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 Russell Terrier

The Russell Terrier is a lively, alert, inquisitive English fox-bolter — shorter-legged cousin of Jack Russell, equally feisty. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 9–15 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as lively, alert, inquisitive.

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Newfoundland health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Cystinuria

Russell Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Deafness