Leonberger
A gentle giant with a lion-like mane, the Leonberger is a calm, patient and very sociable family dog, but poorly suited to heat.
Leonberger vs Newfoundland
Side by side
| Trait | Leonberger | Newfoundland |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Pinschers, molossers and mountain dogs | Pinschers, molossers and mountain dogs |
| Size | Giant | Giant |
| Weight | 45–75 kg | 54–68 kg |
| Height at withers | 65–80 cm | 66–71 cm |
| Life expectancy | 8–10 years | 8–10 years |
| Energy | ||
| With children | ||
| With other dogs | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Heat tolerance | ||
| Apartment | Not recommended | Not recommended |
Key differences
On paper, these two breeds are very close: none of the gaps in size, life expectancy or ratings is large enough to stand out.
Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.
Which one is right for you?
A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.
- Apartment living
- Both are similarBased on apartment suitability and energy.
- Family with children
- Both are similarBased on behaviour with children.
- First-time owner
- Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
- Hot climate
- Both are similarBased on heat tolerance.
- Active owner
- Leonberger is the better fitBased on energy level.
Meet the two breeds
Newfoundland
A soft-hearted giant and outstanding swimmer, the Newfoundland is a legendarily gentle family dog, but very sensitive to heat.