Great Pyrenees vs Newfoundland: Complete Breed Comparison Guide

If you're considering bringing home a new furry friend, you're probably weighing your options between two popular breeds: the Great Pyrenees and the Newfoundland. Both are gentle giants with a strong instinct to protect and care for their families.

The Great Pyrenees, originally bred to guard sheep, typically weighs between 85-115 pounds and stands between 25-32 inches tall. In contrast, the Newfoundland, bred as a working dog, can weigh up to 150 pounds and reach heights of 28 inches or more.

Despite their size, both breeds are known for their calm and gentle nature, making them a great fit for families with children. However, their grooming needs are quite different - the Great Pyrenees has a thick double coat that sheds heavily, while the Newfoundland has a thick, water-resistant coat that requires regular brushing.

A fresh viewpoint: Great Pyrenees Coat Colors

When comparing the Great Pyrenees and Newfoundland breeds, it's essential to consider their physical characteristics. The Great Pyrenees stands at 25-29 inches tall, while the Newfoundland reaches a height of 25-32 inches.

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Both breeds have a significant weight range, with the Great Pyrenees weighing between 120-180 pounds and the Newfoundland weighing between 85-160 pounds.

In terms of temperament, the Great Pyrenees is known for being friendly, calm, and independent, whereas the Newfoundland is often described as a guardian, stoic, and majestic breed.

Here's a comparison of the two breeds in a table:

The lifespan of the two breeds also differs, with the Great Pyrenees living for 8-10 years and the Newfoundland living for 10-12 years.

When considering a new furry friend, it's essential to think about their size. The first breed we're comparing stands at 25-29 inches tall, while the second breed reaches 25-32 inches.

These breeds are relatively similar in height, but their weight varies. The first breed weighs between 120-180 pounds, whereas the second breed tips the scales at 85-160 pounds.

Their temperaments are also quite different. The first breed is known for being friendly, calm, and independent, while the second breed is more of a guardian, stoic, and majestic.

Take a look at this: Breed Standard Great Pyrenees

In terms of energy levels, the first breed is average, whereas the second breed is more relaxed.

Both breeds have average health and a similar lifespan, ranging from 8-10 years for the first breed and 10-12 years for the second.

Here's a summary of the breeds' characteristics:

The Great Pyrenees, Newfoundland, and St. Bernard breeds have a rich history of recognition in the world of dog breeding.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Great Pyrenees as a Working breed in 1933, the Newfoundland in 1886, and the St. Bernard in 1885.

Both the Great Pyrenees and Newfoundland are recognized by the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in the Pinscher and Schnauzer - Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs group, in the Molossian type section.

The St. Bernard, on the other hand, is not recognized by the FCI.

Here's a breakdown of the recognition status of these breeds:

Each of these breeds has a unique history and recognition status, but they all share a common bond as beloved canine companions.

When it comes to adaptability, Great Pyrenees and Newfoundland dogs share a similar trait - they both adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. Both breeds are known to be flexible and can adjust to new situations easily.

However, when it comes to being left alone, both breeds have similar requirements. They do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Here's a brief comparison of the three breeds' adaptability and independence:

As you can see, both Great Pyrenees and Newfoundland dogs have similar adaptability and independence needs, making them great companions for active families who can provide them with the attention and care they require.

Choosing the right breed for you is a crucial decision that depends on your lifestyle and the time you can devote to training and exercise. The Great Pyrenees, for instance, requires more training due to its tendency to be harder to keep focused.

Related reading: Great Pyrenees Potty Training

The Newfoundland breed, on the other hand, is usually eager to please and enjoys water and swimming, making it a great choice for families who spend time at the beach. This breed needs constant attention, however.

If you're looking for a calmer, more independent dog, the Great Pyrenees might be the better choice. It's essential to consider your family's needs and preferences when selecting a breed.

Explore further: Is a Great Pyrenees a Giant Breed

If you're considering bringing a new furry friend into your family, you'll want to do your research on the best breed for you. One way to narrow down your options is to compare popular breeds side by side.

The Bouvier des Flandres, Belgian Malinois, and Dutch Shepherd Dog are all high-energy breeds that require regular exercise and mental stimulation. They're not ideal for apartment living, but they make great companions for active families.

The Boston Terrier and Border Collie are two breeds that are known for their intelligence and trainability. However, the Border Collie is generally more high-strung and requires more attention and exercise than the laid-back Boston Terrier.

For another approach, see: Great Pyrenees Exercise Needs

If you're looking for a family dog that's great with kids, the German Shepherd and Akita are both good options. However, the Akita is generally more independent and may not be as tolerant of children as the German Shepherd.

Here are some popular breed comparisons to consider:

Ultimately, the best breed for you will depend on your lifestyle and preferences. Be sure to research each breed thoroughly and consider factors like exercise needs, grooming requirements, and temperament before making a decision.

Both the Newfoundland and the Great Pyrenees have very similar shaped heads, which are wide at the top with big mouths.

Their fur is also of similar length, with a thicker coat that sticks out at the sides, making them well suited for colder climates.

The Newfoundland has a longer upper lip, which means they tend to drool a lot more than the Great Pyrenees.

Their ears are also a bit longer than the Great Pyrenees.

A different take: Great Pyrenees Similar Breeds

The Great Pyrenees is almost always wholly white, but may occasionally have some brown spots on its body.

Newfoundlands can be completely black or completely brown, or have spots of white or be white with black or brown spots.

The Newfoundland has a prominent crest of fur on its chest, which juts out like a flowing scarf between the two front legs.

Their legs are bushy, and their tails are long and fluffy, which is a common trait among both breeds.

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The Great Pyrenees and Newfoundland are both gentle giants, but they have distinct personalities. Great Pyrenees are known for their calm nature, conserving energy and only becoming active when needed. They're undeniably loyal, but can be stubborn during training.

Newfies, on the other hand, are highly adaptable and relatively easy to train. They're natural rescuers, which makes them courageous and intelligent. Their social nature makes them great family dogs.

Here's a comparison of their key personality traits:

The Great Pyrenees, Newfoundland, and St. Bernard are all known for their gentle nature, with the Great Pyrenees being patient and the Newfoundland being gentle.

These breeds are also highly protective of their owners, with the Great Pyrenees being fiercely loyal and the Newfoundland being loyal and social.

One thing to note is that the Great Pyrenees can be a bit more sensitive than other breeds, as well as the Newfoundland.

In terms of affection level, the Newfoundland stands out as being highly affectionate, while the Great Pyrenees is average.

Here's a comparison of the breeds' social needs:

The Great Pyrenees has a strong desire to explore the world, which can sometimes lead to wandering off or roaming.

On the other hand, the St. Bernard has a relatively low prey drive, making them less likely to chase after small animals.

In contrast, the Great Pyrenees and Newfoundland have a higher prey drive, making them more suitable for hunting or activities that require chasing after prey.

The temperament and personality of a dog can make all the difference in how well it fits into your family and lifestyle. Both Great Pyrenees and Newfoundland dogs are known for their friendly nature.

Great Pyrenees dogs are usually friendly towards other pets, making them a great addition to households with existing animals. They're also kid-friendly dogs, which is a big plus for families with little ones. However, they can be average friendly towards strangers, which means they might take some time to warm up to new people.

Newfoundland dogs, on the other hand, are one of the friendliest dog breeds and are very cat-friendly as well. They're also stranger-friendly dogs, which makes them a great choice for families who want a dog that's easy to socialize. Newfoundlands are very kid-friendly dogs and are often recommended for families with small children.

Both Great Pyrenees and Newfoundland dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality. They're also great with elderly people, making them a popular choice for families with seniors.

Here's a quick summary of the temperaments of both breeds:

Both the Great Pyrenees and Newfoundland are large breeds that require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their thick coats. They need to be brushed several times a week, especially after exercise or playtime.

The Great Pyrenees has a double coat that sheds heavily, so regular brushing is essential to prevent loose hair from getting everywhere. This breed also requires regular nail trimming to prevent overgrowth.

Newfoundlands have a thick, water-resistant coat that requires regular washing to keep it clean and healthy. They also need to be brushed regularly to prevent matting and tangling.

For more insights, see: When Do Great Pyrenees Get Their Full Coat

When taking care of a Great Pyrenees or Newfoundland, it's essential to consider their diet and weight management. Both breeds are prone to obesity if their owners don't pay attention to their weight.

To feed your Great Pyrenees or Newfoundland, you'll need to provide a significant amount of food. The Great Pyrenees requires 8 to 10 cups of high-quality dry food per day, divided into two meals.

Take a look at this: What Do Great Pyrenees Eat

The Newfoundland, on the other hand, needs 5 to 6 cups of high-quality dry food per day, divided into two meals. This can add up quickly, so be sure to monitor your dog's food intake.

Both breeds have a high weight gain potential, so it's crucial to monitor their weight closely. If you don't, they can easily gain weight, which can lead to serious health problems.

Here's a quick comparison of the two breeds' daily food consumption:

Remember, feeding your dog the right amount of food is crucial for their overall health and well-being.

The Great Pyrenees and Newfoundland are both beautiful breeds that require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and looking their best. They have dense, double coats that shed heavily, especially during their shedding seasons.

The Great Pyrenees sheds above average, so be prepared for regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. They should be brushed once a week with a brush or a long-toothed comb to keep their coat in check.

Suggestion: How to Keep a Great Pyrenees from Roaming

Newfoundland dogs, on the other hand, are heavy shedders and require more frequent brushing. They should be brushed once a week, but during their shedding season, which comes twice a year, they may need daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling.

Both breeds require regular nail trimming and teeth brushing to prevent health issues and discomfort.

Here's a quick reference guide to help you keep track of your grooming schedule:

By following this grooming schedule, you can help keep your Great Pyrenees or Newfoundland looking and feeling their best.

Proper nutrition is crucial for both Great Pyrenees and Newfoundlands. You should adequately nourish both breeds with quality ingredients from natural sources.

Don't buy cheap brands, as they will hurt your dog's health and shorten their lifespan. It's not that much more expensive to buy reputable brands, and your dog will be healthier because of it.

Feeding your dog a high-quality diet is worth the extra cost. Properly feeding a large dog costs around $60 per month.

Worth a look: How Much Should a Great Pyrenees Eat a Day

Great Pyrenees are prone to obesity, so keep an eye on their diet and avoid feeding them unhealthy human food high in fats. Expect your Pyrenees to eat anywhere from 3 to 5 cups of dry dog food per day.

Newfoundlands, on the other hand, are voracious eaters. Expect an adult Newfie to eat anywhere from 3 to 7 cups of food per day, depending on their size.

A fresh viewpoint: My Great Pyrenees Won't Eat

When it comes to the health and lifespan of your furry friend, it's essential to consider the breed you've chosen. Both Great Pyrenees and Newfoundlands are generally healthy breeds, but they do have some common health issues to be aware of.

Great Pyrenees are commonly healthy dogs, but they can be prone to Cataracts, Hip Dysplasia, Patellar Luxation, Bloat, Entropion, Drug Sensitivity, Elbow Dysplasia, and Addison's Disease. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to catch any potential issues early on.

Newfoundlands are also very healthy dog breeds, but they can be susceptible to Cataracts, Hip Dysplasia, Cancer, Hypothyroidism, Bloat, Epilepsy, Cherry Eye, Elbow Dysplasia, Addison's Disease, Cystinuria, and Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis.

Expand your knowledge: Great Pyrenees Health Issues

The average lifespan of both breeds is around 11 years, with Great Pyrenees living between 10-12 years and Newfoundlands living between 9-13 years. However, with proper care and attention, some individuals have been known to live up to 14 years or more.

Here's a comparison of the health issues common in Great Pyrenees, Newfoundlands, and St. Bernards:

By being aware of these potential health issues and staying on top of regular veterinary check-ups, you can help ensure your furry friend lives a long and happy life.

When you're considering bringing a new furry friend into your life, it's essential to think about their energy and activity levels. Great Pyrenees dogs have a higher energy level than other breeds, so if you're an active person, they might be a great match.

Great Pyrenees dogs have an average exercise need, but they do require regular physical and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. On the other hand, Newfoundland dogs have an average energy level, making them a good choice for people who live a semi-active life.

If you're looking for a dog that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the Great Pyrenees might be a good fit. However, if you're looking for a dog that's happy to lounge around the house, the Newfoundland's average energy level might be a better match.

Here's a quick comparison of the two breeds' energy levels:

Newfoundland dogs, on the other hand, sleep a lot - around 12-14 hours a day. This is because they're a large breed and need plenty of rest to recover from their daily activities.

The Great Pyrenees vs Newfoundland debate is a popular one, especially when it comes to their intelligence and trainability. Great Pyrenees dogs are actually considered easy to train, making them a great choice for first-time dog owners.

Newfoundland dogs, on the other hand, are known for their great intelligence and are considered one of the smartest dog breeds. They're also easy to train, which is a bonus.

Worth a look: Great Pyrenees Trainability

However, if you're looking for a breed that's a bit more laid back, the Great Pyrenees might be the way to go. They're not the brightest canine intelligence, but they're still a loving and loyal companion.

Here's a quick comparison of the two breeds:

Ultimately, both breeds make great pets, and it's up to you to decide which one is the best fit for your family.

The Great Pyrenees and Newfoundland are both beloved breeds, but they have some key differences when it comes to lifestyle and cost.

The Great Pyrenees is generally a more affordable option, with prices ranging from $500 to $600. In contrast, the Newfoundland can cost significantly more, between $1500 and $2000.

Both breeds are relatively easy to get, with frequent availability making them accessible to many dog owners.

When considering a dog's lifestyle needs, it's essential to think about their activity and playfulness levels. The Great Pyrenees, for instance, is not the most playful dog breed. They require a lot of space to roam and can be prone to destructive behavior if they don't get enough exercise.

Newfoundlands, on the other hand, are average in terms of playfulness, which means they'll enjoy playing with you, but they're not as high-strung as some other breeds. They're also relatively quiet, barking less than the Great Pyrenees.

If you're looking for a more playful companion, you might want to consider the St. Bernard, but even they have their limits. It's worth noting that all three breeds can adapt to indoor living with careful exercise and attention, but it's not always the best choice.

Here's a quick rundown of the breeds' playfulness and barking levels:

Ultimately, the right breed for you will depend on your lifestyle and preferences. If you're an active person who enjoys playing with your dog, a St. Bernard might be a good fit. But if you're looking for a more laid-back companion, a Newfoundland could be a better choice.

The cost of owning a Great Pyrenees or a Newfoundland is a significant factor to consider. Both breeds have a price tag, with the Great Pyrenees ranging from $500 to $600.

If you're on a tighter budget, the Great Pyrenees might be the more affordable option. In contrast, the Newfoundland comes with a higher price tag of $1500 to $2000.

In terms of availability, both breeds are relatively easy to get, but they're not exactly rare either. You can find both Great Pyrenees and Newfoundlands at breeders or shelters, making them relatively accessible to potential owners.

Here's a quick comparison of the price and availability of these two breeds:

Great Pyrenees are naturally protective of their flock and territory, making them excellent guardians.

They have a strong instinct to defend and will often take on predators twice their size.

Newfoundlands, on the other hand, are known for their gentle nature and are often used as therapy dogs.

They are highly social and love being around people, which can make them a bit too friendly for guarding duties.

Great Pyrenees are built for endurance and can spend hours patrolling their territory, even in harsh weather conditions.

They have a thick double coat that protects them from the elements.

Newfoundlands, while large, are not as well-suited for extreme weather conditions due to their thick coat, which can make them prone to overheating.

They do, however, have webbed feet that make them excellent swimmers.

Great Pyrenees are independent dogs that thrive on having a job to do, whether that's guarding or herding.

They can be strong-willed at times, but with consistent training, they make loyal companions.

Newfoundlands are highly trainable and love to please their owners, making them a great choice for first-time dog owners.

They are often described as "velcro dogs" due to their tendency to stick close by.