What is the difference between a Labrador Retriever and a Newfoundland?

The Labrador Retriever is 55–80 lbs, 21–25 in sized while the Newfoundland is 100–150 lbs, 26–28 in sized. They differ in size (55–80 lbs, 21–25 in vs 100–150 lbs, 26–28 in), lifespan (10–12 years vs 9–10 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Labrador Retriever or Newfoundland?

Labrador Retriever is generally good with kids. Newfoundland is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Labrador Retriever or Newfoundland?

The Labrador Retriever has a lifespan of 10–12 years while the Newfoundland has a lifespan of 9–10 years.

Labrador Retriever vs Newfoundland — Breed Comparison

About the Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever has been America's most popular dog breed for over three decades — and for good reason. Originally bred in Newfoundland, Canada, during the early 19th century to help fishermen haul nets and retrieve catch from the icy North Atlantic, the breed was refined in England into the versatile sporting dog we know today. Labs stand 21.5–24.5 inches tall and weigh 55–80 pounds, with a short, dense, water-resistant double coat in three recognized colors: black, yellow (ranging from fox-red to pale cream), and chocolate.

Temperament & Personality

Labrador Retrievers are friendly, outgoing, and high-spirited — they greet nearly every person, dog, and situation with unbridled enthusiasm and a wagging tail. They are exceptionally patient and gentle with children, making them one of the most trusted family dogs in the world. Labs are also remarkably intelligent and eager to please, which is why they dominate as guide dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, therapy dogs, and detection dogs across dozens of working disciplines.

Pros

Outstanding family dog — patient, gentle, and naturally good with children of all ages
Highly trainable and eager to please — consistently ranks among the most obedient breeds
Versatile and adaptable — equally at home on the couch, in the field, or in the water
Friendly and social temperament — gets along well with other dogs, cats, and strangers

Cons

Heavy shedding year-round with major seasonal blowouts — not suited for allergy sufferers
Prone to obesity — Labs are notoriously food-motivated and will eat anything not locked away
High energy in the first 2–3 years — requires substantial daily exercise to prevent destructive behavior
Susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia, exercise-induced collapse, and progressive retinal atrophy

There's a reason the Lab is the world's favorite dog — discover adoptable Labrador Retrievers on Puplister today.

About the Newfoundland

The Newfoundland hails from the Canadian island of the same name, where it was bred as a working dog for fishermen — hauling nets, carrying boat lines, and even rescuing drowning swimmers. Males typically weigh 130 to 150 pounds and stand 28 inches tall, while females are slightly smaller at 100 to 120 pounds. Their thick, water-resistant double coat comes in black, brown, gray, or the striking black-and-white "Landseer" pattern.

Temperament & Personality

Newfoundlands are renowned for their sweet, patient, and devoted temperament — often called "nanny dogs" for their extraordinary gentleness with children. They are calm indoors, deeply loyal, and have an almost instinctive drive to rescue people in water. Newfies generally get along beautifully with other dogs and pets, making them exceptional family dogs despite their enormous size.

Pros

Exceptional natural swimming ability and water rescue instincts
One of the gentlest giant breeds — outstanding with children
Calm and easygoing indoor demeanor despite massive size
Highly trainable and responsive to gentle, patient guidance

Cons

Heavy drooling — especially after eating, drinking, or exercise
Coat requires extensive grooming and sheds heavily year-round
Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, subvalvular aortic stenosis, and cystinuria
Shorter lifespan of 8 to 10 years common in giant breeds

A Newfoundland could be the most loving addition your family ever makes — find one waiting for a home on Puplister.

Labrador Retriever vs Newfoundland