Newfoundland vs Weimaraner

Which dog breed is right for you?

Newfoundland

Size
100–150 lbs, 26–28 in
Lifespan
9–10 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
High
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Sweet Patient Devoted Gentle

Weimaraner

Size
55–90 lbs, 23–27 in
Lifespan
10–13 years
Exercise
Very High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
No
Energetic Fearless Alert Obedient

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.

About the Weimaraner

The Weimaraner was developed in the early 19th century at the court of Weimar in Germany, where nobles bred these dogs to hunt large game — boar, bear, and deer — before transitioning them to bird dog duties as large game became scarce. These striking, athletic dogs stand 23 to 27 inches tall and weigh 55 to 90 pounds, with a sleek, powerful build designed for speed and endurance. Their distinctive short, smooth coat comes in shades of mouse-gray to silver-gray — earning them the nickname "Gray Ghost" — complemented by striking amber or blue-gray eyes.

Temperament & Personality

Weimaraners are fearless, friendly, and intensely devoted to their families — they crave human companionship and do not do well as kennel or outdoor-only dogs. They are energetic and playful with children, generally sociable with other dogs, and possess an intelligence that demands both physical and mental outlets. Without adequate exercise and attention, Weimaraners become anxious, destructive, and can develop severe behavioral problems.

Pros

  • Strikingly beautiful with an unmistakable silver-gray appearance
  • Versatile sporting dog — excellent for hunting, running, and competitive events
  • Highly intelligent and trainable with consistent, positive methods
  • Short coat requires minimal grooming and sheds only moderately

Cons

  • Extreme separation anxiety — one of the most prone breeds to this condition
  • Requires intense daily exercise — 2 or more hours of vigorous activity is typical
  • Prone to bloat (gastric torsion), hip dysplasia, and hyperuricosuria
  • Can be destructive on a grand scale when bored or anxious — has been known to eat through drywall

The "Gray Ghost" is a magnificent companion for the active and committed — discover Weimaraners on Puplister.

Available for Adoption

0

Newfoundlands

13

Weimaraners

Browse

Related Articles

All Articles →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Newfoundland and a Weimaraner?
The Newfoundland is 100–150 lbs, 26–28 in sized while the Weimaraner is 55–90 lbs, 23–27 in sized. They differ in size (100–150 lbs, 26–28 in vs 55–90 lbs, 23–27 in), lifespan (9–10 years vs 10–13 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Newfoundland or Weimaraner?
Newfoundland is generally good with kids. Weimaraner is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Newfoundland or Weimaraner?
The Newfoundland has a lifespan of 9–10 years while the Weimaraner has a lifespan of 10–13 years.

Find Your Perfect Pet

Browse thousands of adoptable pets from shelters near you.

Browse Dogs