Newfoundland vs Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
A side-by-side comparison to help you find the right breed for your lifestyle.
Newfoundland
Also known as: Newf, Newfie, Gentle Giant
The Newfoundland is a giant, gentle breed renowned for its impressive strength, thick water-resistant coat, and remarkable swimming ability. Bred to haul fishing nets and pull carts in the freezing North Atlantic, they're often called 'gentle giants' and are famous as 'nanny dogs' for their patient nature with children. But be prepared: a 150lb dog with separation anxiety can destroy drywall in minutes, and the slobber reaches ceilings.
Extra Large
Medium
9-10 yrs
66-71 cm
55-80 kg
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
Also known as: Rough Collie, Lassie Dog, Scottish Collie, Long-Haired Collie
The Scottish Sheepdog Longhair, also known as the Rough Collie, is a highly intelligent and elegant herding breed renowned for its striking long coat, loyalty, and gentle temperament. Made famous by 'Lassie,' this breed was originally developed in the Scottish Highlands as a shepherd's dog and is now cherished as a devoted family companion.
Large
Medium
12-14 yrs
56-66 cm
Quick Comparison
| Trait | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming Needs | ||
| Family Friendly | ||
| Independence |
Key Characteristics
| Good with Kids | ||
| Good with Dogs | ||
| Good with Cats | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Apartment Friendly | ||
| First-Time Owner OK |
| Detail | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Extra Large | Large |
| Energy Level | Medium | Medium |
| Grooming | High | High |
| Trainability | Moderate | Easy |
| Barking Level | Low | High |
| Shedding Level | High | High |
| Chew strength | Moderate | Moderate |
| Housing | Yard | Yard |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Beginner (temperament) but Advanced (logistics/finances) | Beginner |
| First-Time Owner | ||
| Ideal Owner | Someone with a house and yard, works from home or flexible schedule, tolerant of slobber/hair/mess, financially prepared for giant breed costs, has or can get large vehicle for transport, and ideally has mentor or professional trainer for first-time giant breed ownership. | Patient person or family who appreciates regular grooming as bonding time. Tolerant of barking or willing to train 'quiet' command. Enjoys moderate activity but not extreme athletics. Uses positive reinforcement training methods. |
Newfoundland Dealbreakers
- Tight budget - if $3,000 vet bill is a disaster
- Clean freak - cannot have pristine home with a Newfie
- Tiny living space - they take up physical floor space
- Hot climate without AC
- Unable to physically manage a 150lb dog
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Dealbreakers
- Cannot tolerate barking
- Want a 'wash and go' dog - grooming is a hobby here
- Want a dog to jog 10 miles with you in July
- Use harsh training methods - they are 'soft' dogs that shut down
Surrender Risk
| Factor | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Level | Medium | Low |
| Primary Reasons | 'He got too big' - owners underestimate reality of 150lb dog in a hallway, Medical costs - giant breed vet bills are shocking to unprepared owners, Grooming/mess - drool and hair become unmanageable for some | Barking - underestimated volume and frequency, Shedding/Grooming - extreme hair and time commitment, Lassie Effect - unrealistic expectations from TV show |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | Low | High |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | Low | Medium |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Low | Low |
Newfoundland Social Traits
None
Generally low - tolerant of other dogs. Same-sex aggression rare but can occur in intact males.
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Social Traits
Moderate
Generally dog neutral to friendly. Same-sex aggression is rare.
Training
Newfoundland
- Start training early while they're still manageable size
- Use social connection and food as motivators
- Harsh methods cause them to shut down completely
- Be consistent - a giant dog that ignores commands is dangerous
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
- Keep sessions short (5-10 mins) and fun
- Harsh corrections will cause them to shut down or become fearful
- They are intelligent but not 'neurotic' about problem-solving like Border Collies
- Train 'quiet' command early to manage barking
Newfoundland Considerations
Newfoundlands were bred to work closely with fishermen and do not tolerate isolation well. A 150lb dog with separation anxiety can destroy drywall, doors, and furniture in minutes. They need someone home most of the time.
This is non-negotiable. Loose jowls trap saliva - when they shake their heads, 'slobber strings' reach ceilings, walls, and guests. If you're house-proud or easily grossed out, this breed is incompatible with your lifestyle.
Between 6-18 months, they're large, clumsy, and energetic with no body awareness. They accidentally injure children or elderly owners simply by bumping into them. A puppy growing 10lbs/month is logistically immense.
Everything costs 2-3x more: $100-150/month food, $100-250/month insurance, medications priced by weight. If a $3,000 vet bill is a disaster, do not get this breed.
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Considerations
Bred to communicate with shepherds over long distances, Collies alert to everything: delivery trucks, neighbors, squirrels, and wind. Unlike a guard dog's warning bark, a Collie often barks to chat or express boredom. The bark is sharp and piercing.
Exceptionally sensitive to their environment. Thunderstorms, fireworks, and even loud arguments can cause significant distress. Poor candidates for chaotic households with constant screaming or slamming doors.
The spectacular coat requires weekly 45-60 minute line-brushing sessions. Surface brushing leaves the undercoat to mat, leading to 'felted' dogs that must be shaved - a disaster for double coats. This is a hobby, not a chore.
Young Collies may attempt to herd running children by nipping at heels. This is an arrested predatory sequence behavior, not aggression, but it can be frightening for small children and requires management.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | High safety - one of the safest giant breeds for multi-pet homes. Drive is 'chase to play' not 'chase to kill.' | High safety - one of the best large breeds for multi-species homes. Low prey drive. |
| Small Mammals | Generally safe, but supervise due to size difference | Generally safe - may try to herd but rarely has grab-bite instinct |
| Birds / Reptiles | Generally safe with livestock but may accidentally squash chickens trying to play | Good with poultry if trained, though may harass if untrained |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Arrested | Arrested |
| Biddability | High | High |
| Noise Sensitivity | Low | High |
| Territorial Barking | ||
| Same-Sex Aggression Onset | N/A | N/A |
Newfoundland: Predatory sequence arrested at Eye -> Stalk -> Chase. The 'Grab-Bite' and 'Kill-Bite' are largely inhibited - they may chase a cat but usually just want to sniff or lick it. They are 'protection by presence' dogs - more likely to hold an intruder down or block them than bite. They assess before acting ('Newfie time') rather than responding robotically.
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair: Predatory sequence is Orient → Eye → Stalk → (Stop). They may stare at and follow cats but grab-bite is largely inhibited. They WANT to work with you - unlike Huskies who ask 'what's in it for me?' a Collie asks 'what do you want me to do?'
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 6-18 | 6-14 |
| House Training | Easy | Easy |
| Crate Training | Medium | High |
| Adolescent Regression |
Newfoundland: Temperamentally sweet but logistically immense. Puppy grows 10lbs/month. 'Land shark' biting on a giant breed HURTS. Joint protection is demanding - no stairs, no jumping until 2 years. Must solidify leash manners before they reach 50lbs.
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair: Collie puppies are generally polite and observant, easier than Labradors or high-drive breeds. Main challenges are noise sensitivity and socialization to prevent shyness. May need ear taping for classic semi-prick look (cosmetic only).
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 24 months | 12 months |
| Adolescence | 6-18 | 6-18 |
| Adult Years | 2-7 | 2-8 |
| Senior Onset | ~7 years | ~9 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 1-3 years | 1-3 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 66-71 cm | 56-66 cm |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Extra Large | Large |
| Lifespan | 9–10 years | 12–14 years |
| Litter Size | 6-10 | 6-10 |
Newfoundland Coat
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Hauling fishing nets in freezing North Atlantic waters and pulling carts of catch - the 'St. Bernard of the Water' | Gathering and droving sheep in the Scottish Highlands, farm guardianship |
| Origin | Newfoundland, Canada - bred for immense strength, water-resistant coat, webbed feet, and gentle disposition | Scottish Highlands and Northern England, 19th century |
Breeding Details
| Detail | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | Low | Low |
| Whelping Difficulty | Medium | Easy |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Low | Low |
Physical Risks
| Risk | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | High | High |
| Slippery Floor Risk | High | Low |
| Min Fence Height | 1.5m | 1.3m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Low | Low |
Health & Common Conditions
Newfoundland Health Issues
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Health Issues
Newfoundland Suggested Tests
- Cardiac (Cardiologist Echo) - CHIC required
- Hips (OFA or PennHIP) - CHIC required
- Elbows X-rays - CHIC required
- Cystinuria DNA test - CHIC required
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Suggested Tests
- MDR1 (DNA) - CRITICAL
- CEA (DNA + Clinical Exam at 6-8 weeks)
- PRA-rcd2 (DNA)
- Hip Evaluation
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Medium | Low |
| Cardiac Risk | Very High | Low |
| Neurological Risk | Low | Low |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | High | Low |
| Vet Burden Tier | Very High | Medium |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Medium | Low |
| Food Allergies | Generally hardy |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Normal |
| Eye Care Needs | Low | High |
| Anal Gland Issues | Occasional | Rare |
Senior Care & Aging
Newfoundland Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Hind-end weakness (mobility issues)
- Heart disease
- Arthritis
Decline can be rapid. Be prepared to assist a 150lb dog who cannot stand up - harnesses and ramps become daily tools. Quality of life decisions are complex due to physical impossibility of managing an immobile giant dog.
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis in hips/knees
- Cognitive decline
- Vision problems (CEA progression)
High risk of arthritis - introduce ramps for cars early to protect joints. Keep mentally engaged with nosework to slow cognitive decline.
Grooming & Care
Newfoundland
high maintenanceScottish Sheepdog Longhair
high maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
Newfoundland Daily Life
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | Over 50lbs | Over 50lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | Very High | Low |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Good |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | Medium | Medium |
| Therapy Dog | High | High |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Low | Medium |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $2,000-5,000 | $1,500-3,000 |
| Initial Cost Range | $2,000–$5,000 | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $250–$500 | $150–$250 |
| Yearly Range | $3,000–$6,000 | $2,000–$3,000 |
| Food / Month | $100-150 | $60-90 |
| Insurance / Month | $100-250 | $40-70 |
| Grooming / Session | $100-150 | $80-150 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $800-1,500 | $600-1,000 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
Newfoundland Lifetime Cost
$30,000-60,000
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Lifetime Cost
$25,000-40,000
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | Newfoundland | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Occasional | Rare |
| Slobber Level | Heavy | None |
| Smell When Wet | Strong | Moderate |
| Zoomies Frequency | Rare | Weekly |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | Low | Low |
Newfoundland Quirks
The Newfie Lean
Will lean their entire weight (up to 150lbs) against your legs to show affection - can knock you off balance
Ceiling Slobber
Slobber strings can reach ceilings, walls, and unsuspecting guests when they shake their heads. Non-negotiable.
Water Magnet
They will try to enter ANY body of water - mud puddles, decorative ponds, kiddie pools. Also submerge their muzzle when drinking, dripping water across kitchen floors.
Lap Dog Delusion
A 150lb dog who believes they should sit in your lap. They will try.
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Quirks
The Collie Nose
They use their long nose to poke, prod, and nudge you - their way of holding hands
The Greeter's Grin
Some Collies 'smile' (bare their teeth) when submissive or happy. Looks terrifying to strangers but is a sign of joy.
Air Snapping
May snap the air when excited or playing
The Off Switch
Unlike Border Collies, Rough Collies have a distinct 'off switch' and are often described as couch potatoes indoors
Frequently Asked Questions
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