Great Dane vs Newfoundland
Side-by-side comparison for prospective owners weighing both breeds.
| Trait | Great Dane | Newfoundland |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 110–175 lbs | 100–150 lbs |
| Lifespan | 7–10 yrs | 9–10 yrs |
| Est. monthly cost | $150–$280 | $150–$260 |
| Energy level | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Good with kids | ||
| Good with other pets | ||
| Vocalization |
Where Great Dane and Newfoundland differ most
- Grooming needs: Great Dane 1/5 · Newfoundland 4/5Newfoundland much more upkeep
- Adult weight: Great Dane 110–175 lbs · Newfoundland 100–150 lbsGreat Dane heavier
- Energy level: Great Dane 3/5 · Newfoundland 2/5Great Dane higher-energy
- Shedding: Great Dane 3/5 · Newfoundland 5/5Newfoundland sheds more
- Good with kids: Great Dane 4/5 · Newfoundland 5/5Newfoundland rated higher
- Good with other pets: Great Dane 3/5 · Newfoundland 4/5Newfoundland rated higher
Full trait-by-trait breakdown
| Trait | Great Dane | Newfoundland | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult weight | 110–175 lbs | 100–150 lbs | Great Dane heavier |
| Energy level | 3/5 | 2/5 | Great Dane higher-energy |
| Daily exercise | ~45 min | ~45 min | About the same |
| Grooming needs | 1/5 | 4/5 | Newfoundland much more upkeep |
| Shedding | 3/5 | 5/5 | Newfoundland sheds more |
| Trainability | 4/5 | 4/5 | About the same |
| Good with kids | 4/5 | 5/5 | Newfoundland rated higher |
| Good with other pets | 3/5 | 4/5 | Newfoundland rated higher |
| Vocalization | 2/5 | 1/5 | Great Dane more vocal |
| Lifespan | 7–10 yrs | 9–10 yrs | About the same |
| Est. monthly cost | $150–280 | $150–260 | About the same |
Which one should you choose?
The Newfoundland's calm, patient temperament and deep affinity for water set it apart from the equally gentle but more land-bound Great Dane, which carries a bit more playful energy despite its enormous size. Grooming is where the real difference shows up: a quick weekly brush is all the Dane's short coat really needs, while the Newfoundland's thick, water-resistant double coat sheds heavily and requires serious, regular brushing. Both breeds are famously good with kids, patient and unbothered by typical childhood chaos, making either a solid choice for a family prepared for giant-breed space and cost needs. Exercise stays moderate for both, though neither should be mistaken for a low-maintenance dog given the sheer scale of food, vet care, and living space required. A household near water that doesn't mind heavier coat care will likely prefer the Newfoundland's legendary calm; a household that wants a lower-grooming giant with a bit more playful energy will likely prefer the Great Dane.
Whichever breed fits your life, consider adoption or breed-specific rescue first — many purebred and mixed-breed dogs and cats are already waiting for homes.
General breed information, not veterinary advice — consult a vet for your pet's specific health, diet, and behavior needs.