Newfoundland vs Samoyed

Working · Giant vs Working · Medium

Quick take
  • Newfoundland is the larger breed at 130–150 lbs (males) vs 45–65 lbs for the Samoyed.
  • The Samoyed typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Samoyed has higher daily energy needs.

Side-by-side traits

TraitNewfoundlandSamoyed
Group
WorkingWorking
Size
GiantMedium
Origin
CanadaRussia
Height (male)
28"21–23.5"
Height (female)
26"19–21"
Weight (male)
130–150 lbs45–65 lbs
Weight (female)
100–120 lbs35–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
9–10 years12–14 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)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longlong
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 Samoyed

The Samoyed is an adaptable, friendly, gentle smiling Siberian — bred by nomadic Samoyed people to herd reindeer. Originally from Russia, this medium working breed typically weighs 45–65 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as adaptable, friendly, gentle.

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Newfoundland health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Cystinuria

Samoyed health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Diabetes
  • Eye disorders
  • Heart problems