Newfoundland vs Labrador: Which Makes the Best Family Dog?

The Newfoundland and Labrador Retriever both have rich histories tied to Canada. These breeds developed unique traits due to their environments and the jobs they performed. Let’s take a closer look at the similarities and differences between these two breeds.

If you’re still on the market to buy a Newfoundland or Labrador Retriever, PuppySpot currently offers a $300 discount using the code PUPPY300, just click the banner below!

Physical Characteristics and Appearance

Newfoundlands and Labrador Retrievers have distinct physical traits that set them apart. Their sizes, builds, and features make each breed unique and suited for different roles as family pets.

Newfoundland Size and Build

• Newfoundlands are large, powerful dogs with a massive build. Males typically weigh 130-150 pounds, while females range from 100-120 pounds. They stand 26-28 inches tall at the shoulder.
• These gentle giants have a thick, water-resistant double coat that comes in black, brown, gray, or white and black. Their fur requires regular grooming to manage shedding.
• Newfoundlands have broad heads, droopy jowls, and small ears. Their strong bodies and webbed feet make them excellent swimmers. Their tails are long and thick, often carried low.

Labrador Retriever Build and Features

• Labrador Retrievers are medium to large dogs, smaller than Newfoundlands. Males weigh 65-80 pounds, and females 55-70 pounds. They stand 21-24 inches tall at the shoulder.
• Labs have a short, dense coat that’s water-resistant. They come in three colors: black, yellow, and chocolate. Their fur sheds moderately and needs regular brushing.
• These dogs have a muscular build with a broad head and expressive eyes. Their ears are floppy, and they have a thick “otter tail” that helps them swim. Labs are known for their friendly expression and wagging tail.

Temperament and Behavior

Newfoundlands and Labrador Retrievers have distinct personalities that suit different family dynamics. Both breeds are known for their friendly and loving nature, but they differ in energy levels and social needs.

The Gentle Nature of the Newfoundland

Newfoundlands are sweet-tempered giants who excel as family companions. They are calm, patient, and incredibly gentle with children. These dogs have a low impulse to wander and prefer staying close to their loved ones.

Newfoundlands are:

• Affectionate and loyal
• Quiet and rarely bark
• Highly sensitive to their owner’s emotions
• Intelligent and easy to train

Their large size requires early socialization and training. Newfoundlands have a strong protective instinct, making them natural guardians. They tend to be less energetic than Labs and are content with moderate daily exercise.

The Energetic Spirit of the Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are cheerful and animated, always ready for fun and games. They have boundless energy and stamina, making them ideal for active families. Labs are social butterflies who love meeting new people and dogs.

Key traits of Labradors include:

• High energy levels
• Strong desire to please
• Friendly and outgoing personality
• Intelligence and trainability

Labs require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom. They excel in various dog sports and activities. Their enthusiasm can sometimes lead to boisterous behavior, so consistent training is important.

Labradors are generally more independent than Newfoundlands but still crave human companionship. They have a moderate tendency to bark and may alert you to visitors or unusual sounds.

Health and Longevity

Both Newfoundlands and Labrador Retrievers face some health issues. Their lifespans differ, with Labs usually living longer. Owners should be aware of breed-specific concerns.

Typical Health Concerns for Newfoundlands

Newfoundlands are prone to certain health problems. Hip dysplasia is common, causing joint pain and mobility issues. Elbow dysplasia can also affect these large dogs. Heart problems are a concern. Tricuspid valve dysplasia may occur, impacting heart function. Some Newfies develop a heart muscle condition called dilated cardiomyopathy.

Eye issues like cataracts and cherry eye can affect vision. Newfoundlands may also experience:

• Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus)
• Cystinuria (bladder stones)
• Hypothyroidism

Their average lifespan is 8-10 years. Regular vet check-ups help catch issues early.

Common Health Issues in Labrador Retrievers

Labrador Retrievers have their own set of health concerns. Hip and elbow dysplasia can affect Labs, causing joint pain and arthritis. Exercise-induced collapse is another condition to watch for. Eye problems are common. Progressive retinal atrophy may lead to vision loss. Cataracts can also develop as Labs age.

Other health issues for Labs include:

• Ear infections
• Epilepsy
• Acute moist dermatitis (hot spots)
• Hypothyroidism

Labs are prone to obesity, which can worsen joint problems. A healthy diet and exercise are crucial. The average lifespan for Labrador Retrievers is 10-12 years. Regular vet visits and good care can help them live long, healthy lives.

Exercise and Activity Requirements

Both Newfoundlands and Labrador Retrievers need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Their activity needs differ due to their size and energy levels.

How Much Exercise Does a Newfoundland Need?

Newfoundlands require moderate exercise. They need about 30 minutes of activity per day. This can include:

• Short walks
• Swimming sessions
• Playtime in the yard

Newfies enjoy water activities due to their webbed feet. They’re not high-energy dogs and prefer calm activities. Indoor play is fine, but they need some outdoor time too. Avoid intense exercise in hot weather. Newfoundlands can overheat easily due to their thick coats.

Optimal Activity Levels for Labrador Retrievers

Labs are high-energy dogs that need lots of exercise. They require at least 1 hour of activity daily. Good exercises for Labs include:

• Brisk walks or jogs
• Fetch games
• Swimming
• Agility training

Labs excel in hunting and work activities. They’re very playful and need mental stimulation too. Puzzle toys can help keep them busy indoors. Without enough exercise, Labs may become destructive or develop behavior problems. Regular activity helps keep them fit and well-behaved.

Training and Intelligence

Both Newfoundlands and Labrador Retrievers are smart dogs that can learn many tasks. Their intelligence and trainability make them good choices for families.

Training Your Newfoundland for Collaborative Work

• Newfoundlands excel at water rescue and can be trained as service dogs. These big dogs need firm but gentle training from a young age. Start with basic obedience and gradually add more complex tasks.
• Use positive reinforcement like treats and praise. Newfoundlands respond well to food rewards during training sessions. Keep lessons short and fun to hold their interest.
• Teach your Newfoundland to pull carts or sleds. This taps into their working dog nature. Swimming exercises also suit their water-loving instincts.

Leveraging the Intelligence of Labrador Retrievers

• Labs are highly trainable and often work as guide dogs, therapy dogs, and search-and-rescue dogs. Their eager-to-please attitude makes training easier. Start with basic commands like sit, stay, and come.
• Use a mix of treats, toys, and praise as rewards. Labs are food-motivated but also love playing. Keep training sessions upbeat and varied to match their energy.
• Teach your Lab retrieval games to satisfy their instincts as gun dogs. Hide toys or scented objects for them to find. This mental stimulation helps prevent boredom and problem behaviors.

Grooming and Maintenance

Newfoundlands and Labrador Retrievers have different grooming needs. Both breeds shed and require regular care to keep their coats healthy and clean.

Caring for Your Newfoundland’s Coat

• Newfoundlands have thick, double coats that need frequent attention. They shed heavily and require daily brushing to prevent matting. A slicker brush and wide-toothed comb work well for their long fur.
• Bathing a Newfoundland should be done every 6-8 weeks. Use dog-specific shampoo and conditioner to keep their coat healthy. After bathing, thoroughly dry the dog to avoid skin issues.
• Newfoundlands drool a lot. Owners should keep cloths handy to wipe their dog’s mouth and face. Regular cleaning around the eyes and ears is also important to prevent infections.

Maintaining Your Labrador Retriever’s Appearance

• Labrador Retrievers have shorter, denser coats that are easier to maintain. They shed seasonally and require weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush or shedding tool.
• Labs need baths every 4-6 weeks or when dirty. Their water-resistant coat benefits from dog-specific shampoos. Dry them well after bathing, paying attention to their ears.
• Trim their nails regularly, about every 2-3 weeks. Clean their ears weekly to prevent infections. Labs may drool, but not as much as Newfoundlands.
• Brush their teeth several times a week to maintain good oral health. Regular grooming sessions also allow owners to check for any skin issues or abnormalities.

Suitability as a Family Pet

Both Newfoundlands and Labrador Retrievers can be great family pets. These breeds have different traits that may suit different family situations.

Is a Newfoundland Right for Your Family?

Newfoundlands are gentle giants known for their loving nature. They’re patient with children and very protective of their families. Newfoundlands need space due to their large size. These dogs have a calm energy level, making them good for less active families. They’re not suited for small apartments. Newfoundlands can be great for families who:

• Have a large home with a yard
• Want a calm, gentle dog
• Need a protective pet

Newfoundlands are friendly to strangers but alert enough to act as watchdogs. They’re smart and easy to train, but their size can be challenging for some owners.

Why Choose a Labrador Retriever as a Family Dog?

Labrador Retrievers are popular family pets for good reasons. They’re friendly, energetic, and great with kids. Labs are smaller than Newfoundlands, making them more suitable for various living spaces.

Labs have high energy levels and need lots of exercise. They’re ideal for active families who enjoy:

• Outdoor activities
• Playing fetch
• Swimming

Labradors are very social and get along well with strangers and other pets. They’re intelligent and eager to please, making training easier. Labs can adapt to apartment living if given enough exercise. These dogs are loving and form strong bonds with family members. Their playful nature keeps families entertained and active.