Breed matchup

Labrador Retriever vs Newfoundland

Interactive head-to-head—swap sides, filter traits, and see who edges each lifestyle score before you read the full guides.

Labrador Retriever

Newfoundland

Labrador Retriever

large · Canada

Newfoundland

large · Canada

Head-to-head

Labrador Retriever vs Newfoundland

Derived comparison from breed profiles: Labrador Retriever runs very high energy vs Newfoundland's moderate. Kids compatibility is close (5/5 each). Shedding levels are similar. America's most popular dog breed. Large, gentle dog with a thick water-resistant coat.

Derived from breed profile scores—not a substitute for meeting dogs or consulting professionals.

large vs large

Energy 5 vs 3

short vs long

10-12 years · 9-10 years

Biggest differences

Weight

55-80 lbs

100-150 lbs

Height

21-24 inches

26-28 inches

Lifespan

10-12 years

9-10 years

Monthly cost*

$80–$150

$90–$170

*Typical ownership cost band estimate—not a quote.

Lifestyle scores

Tap a trait for context. Filter by what matters most to you.

Temperament

Typical breed leanings—individuals vary.

Labrador Retriever

America's most popular dog breed. Overall, Labrador Retrievers are described as outgoing, even-tempered, gentle, agile. Trainability sits around 5/5 and bark tendency around 2/5, so consistent positive training usually pays off quickly.

Outgoing

Even-tempered

Gentle

Agile

Newfoundland

Large, gentle dog with a thick water-resistant coat. Overall, Newfoundlands are described as gentle, sweet, patient, loyal. Trainability sits around 3/5 and bark tendency around 3/5, so patience and clear boundaries matter more than force.

Gentle

Sweet

Patient

Loyal

Care side by side

Grooming, exercise, and training at a glance.

Labrador Retriever

Highly energetic breed requiring 1-2 hours of vigorous exercise daily.

Newfoundland

Moderate energy requiring daily exercise and swimming.

Who should choose which?

Use this as a shortlist—then meet dogs and read full guides.

Choose Labrador Retriever

Choose a Labrador Retriever if you want a large dog with very high energy, kids fit excellent, and apartment fit limited. Temperament leans outgoing and even-tempered.

Choose Newfoundland

Choose a Newfoundland if you prefer large size, moderate energy, kids fit excellent, and apartment fit poor. Traits include gentle and sweet.

Still deciding?

Take the lifestyle match quiz or open both breed guides for first-year costs, health screening, and adopter questions.

FAQs

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

Which is better for apartments, Labrador Retriever or Newfoundland?

Labrador Retriever is the stronger apartment candidate (2/5).

Which is better with kids, Labrador Retriever or Newfoundland?

Both rate 5/5 with children when supervised and socialized.

How do Labrador Retriever and Newfoundland compare on energy?

Labrador Retriever: 5/5 (very high). Newfoundland: 3/5 (moderate). Match the higher-energy breed only if you can meet exercise needs daily.

References

This comparison summarizes publicly available breed-standard and veterinary education sources. Always consult your veterinarian for individual care, and meet dogs in person before deciding.