Energy Level
Moderate
Weight
45–70 kg
Height Range
66–71 cm
Life Span
8–10 years
A moderately active breed that needs 45-60 minutes of daily exercise to stay healthy.
About the Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a large and muscular breed of dog that was originally bred for working on boats and in the water. They are gentle and intelligent, and make excellent family pets.
Breed Characteristics
Temperament
Facts about the Newfoundland
Working breeds thrive with a job — 60+ min activity plus mental tasks prevent destructive boredom.
AKC
Deeply bonded to their handler — early socialization prevents separation anxiety and over-protectiveness.
VCA
Large-breed puppies: avoid long runs until 18 months. Growth plates close late — early high-impact harms joints.
VCA
Consistency is non-negotiable — the same command from every family member, every time. Mixed signals breed confusion.
The Kennel Club UK
Most working breeds were selectively bred for specific tasks — guarding, sledding, water rescue. Know yours.
AKC
Newfies need 30–45 min moderate daily + weekly swim if possible. Giant-breed joints demand controlled impact.
AKC
Subaortic stenosis (heart), hip dysplasia, bloat, cystinuria. Annual cardiac echo from age 3 is essential.
Newfoundland Club of America health survey
Sweet, gentle, patient with kids — called "nanny dogs" for a reason. But drool and shedding are extreme.
The Kennel Club UK
Bred to haul fishing nets + rescue drowning sailors. Their webbed feet + water-resistant coat are working gear.
AKC history
Exercise by Age
Puppy (under 1 year)
Limit exercise to 5 minutes per month of age, twice daily. Avoid high-impact activities to protect growing joints.
Adult (1-7 years)
Full daily goal applies. Mix walks with play, training and mental stimulation.
Senior (7+ years)
Reduce intensity by 20-30%. Shorter, more frequent walks. Watch for signs of fatigue or joint stiffness.
Similar Breeds
Frequently asked questions
How much exercise does a Newfoundland need?
A Newfoundland needs about 5,600 steps a day. A moderately active breed that needs 45-60 minutes of daily exercise to stay healthy.
How big does a Newfoundland get?
Adult Newfoundlands typically weigh 45–70 kg and stand 66–71 cm at the shoulder.
How long do Newfoundlands live?
A Newfoundland usually lives 8–10 years.
What is a Newfoundland's temperament?
Newfoundlands are typically Sweet-Tempered, Gentle, Trainable.
Calculate your Newfoundland's exact daily goal
Pawmi uses peer-reviewed breed science to create a personalized plan based on your dog's breed, age, weight and health conditions.
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