Newfoundland vs West Highland White Terrier

Working · Giant vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Newfoundland is the larger breed at 130–150 lbs (males) vs 15–20 lbs for the West Highland White Terrier.
  • The West Highland White Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).
  • The West Highland White Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The West Highland White Terrier sheds less.
  • The Newfoundland is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitNewfoundlandWest Highland White Terrier
Group
WorkingTerrier
Size
GiantSmall
Origin
CanadaScotland
Height (male)
28"11"
Height (female)
26"10"
Weight (male)
130–150 lbs15–20 lbs
Weight (female)
100–120 lbs15–20 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
9–10 years13–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Low (2/5)
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)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
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 West Highland White Terrier

The West Highland White Terrier is a loyal, happy, entertaining little terrier — the iconic Cesar dog food face with a snowy coat. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 15–20 lbs and lives 13–15 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, happy, entertaining.

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Newfoundland health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Cystinuria

West Highland White Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Skin allergies
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Liver disease