Newfoundland vs Labrador Retriever: Breed Comparison

If you're having difficulty deciding between these two famous Canadian dogs, this comparison will offer you some insights into both breeds.

In this Newfoundland vs. Labrador comparison, we'll discuss the differences in size, appearance, and temperament requirements of both dogs; you'll hopefully then have a better understanding of which of these two fantastic dogs will best suit your family.

Newfoundland Vs. Labrador Size Difference

Let's start by looking at the size of both dogs and how they compare with each other:

Newfoundland

● Height: 26 to 28 inches
● Weight: 100 to 150 pounds
● Females tend to be shorter and weigh less
● Life Expectancy: 9 to 10 years
● AKC Group: Working

Labrador

● Height: 21.5 to 24.5 inches
● Weight: 55 to 80 pounds
● Females of this breed are also shorter and weigh less
● Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
● AKC Group: Sporting

As you can see from the above figures, there is a pretty decent size difference between the two dogs. The Newfoundland is the larger of the two dogs, so you might better choose the Labrador Retriever if size is an issue.

Labrador Vs. Newfoundland Appearance

Newfoundland Appearance

The Newfie has a double coat of straight medium-length hair in various brown, black, and gray shades. It is not uncommon for Newfoundlands to have white patches on their chests, toes, or tail tips, even though their coats are typically solid colored.

Alternatively, you have the less common Landseer Newfoundland, which has a white coat with black markings.

An oily, water-resistant outer coat is ideal for a dog who enjoys spending time in the water. Newfies have a wide, broad head with short, close-to-the-head ears.

There is webbing between the toes on the dog's paws that help him propel them through water and a long plumed tail that is also a helpful aid when the dog swims.

Labrador Retriever Appearance

The Labrador Retriever breed is renowned for its strength, robustness, and solidity. A powerful physique and long legs give them an almost square appearance. Their robust frame can make them appear considerably larger than their medium-sized stature.

A good-sized Lab can weigh up to 85 pounds, whereas a petite female can only manage 55 pounds. American bred Labs tend to be slightly taller but weigh less than their English cousins.

The Labrador retriever's broad head, folded ears, and dark, liquid eyes make it easy to identify this breed. The Labrador Retriever is famed for its "otter tail," a thick but short double coat that is exceptionally water-resistant.

The tail is broad and sturdy, and it almost straightens out towards the end of the topline. Labs have "webbed" paws with extra skin between the toes. Black, chocolate, red/yellow, and even cream are all possibilities for color.

Newfoundland Vs. Labrador Temperament

Labradors are highly intelligent dogs, and they can be pretty naughty dogs when they are puppies and before they mature. That doesn't mean they aren't loyal and loving family companions because, as anyone who owns one will tell you, they are one of the best family dogs.

Labs maintain their playful nature until their middle years, and if you have children, they will make a fun and excellent companion. Labs tend to overeat, and you will need to ensure they don't become obese because that can restrict their movement, leading to more severe health conditions.

Newfies are known for their laid-back demeanor and radiating calmness.
Because of their size, they are better suited to rural living rather than city life. Part of the reason for this is the breed's love of water because swimming is a massive part of their life.

Newfoundlands are a good dog for families with children and other pets because they are trustworthy and loyal. Training and socialization are essential for any dog, but a large dog can sometimes get underfoot through no fault of its own.

But it would be best if you had them obey commands such as "sit" or "lie down" when you instruct them, or things can get a little stressed.

Final Thoughts

We hope the information in this article about the Newfoundland vs. Labrador has given you some food for thought. While both these dogs make super family companions, there are things that every family should consider carefully.

There are no negatives about either breed because they are both highly intelligent, loyal, and friendly dogs. But the excess energy of the Labrador might not suit some families, and at the same time, the sheer size of the Newfoundland might not fit other families.

#chihulife #dogs #newfoundland #labradorretriever #labrador #retriever #breedcomparison

[insidethemusicalmind]

I have a Lab/Newfoundland mix. He's my best friend. About 115-120 pounds, so right in the middle of the two weight ranges for the respective breeds. He's great with kids and goes everywhere with me (even work).

[jameszclark]

They make an amazing mix.

The mix is called a Newfador

[averydukes]

They're both from the St John's Water Dog that went extinct in 1984.