Newfoundland vs Whippet
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
Whippet
Also known as: Poor Man's Racehorse, English Whippet, Snap Dog
The Whippet is a medium-sized sighthound known for its elegant, slender build and remarkable speed. Originally bred by Victorian-era working-class miners for rabbit coursing and rag racing, Whippets combine explosive athleticism with a calm, affectionate indoor demeanor. They're often described as the 'Goldilocks' of dogs - not too big, not too small, active when needed but wonderfully quiet at home.
Medium
Medium
12-15 yrs
44-51 cm
9-14 kg
Quick Comparison
| Trait | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Extra Large | Medium |
| Energy Level | Medium | Medium |
| Grooming | High | Low |
| Trainability | Moderate | Moderate |
| Barking Level | Low | Low |
| Shedding Level | High | Low |
| Chew strength | Moderate | Light |
| Housing | Yard | Apartment |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| 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. | Someone who works from home or has flexible schedule. Tolerant of a velcro dog that wants physical contact. Has access to secure fenced area for sprinting. Willing to dress their dog in coats. Doesn't expect reliable recall in open areas. |
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
Whippet Dealbreakers
- Work long hours away from home (8+ hours daily)
- Want a dog that can be off-leash in unfenced areas
- Have free-roaming rabbits, guinea pigs, or birds
- Want a dog to live outside
- Dream of perfect off-leash heel at the park
Surrender Risk
| Factor | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Separation anxiety - owners underestimate velcro nature and dog destroys house when isolated, Life changes (divorce/moving) in combination with anxiety issues, Media-driven aesthetic purchases - viral 'long boi' videos create demand from unprepared owners |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | Low | Low |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | Low | Medium |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
Whippet Social Traits
Low
Generally excellent with other dogs. Not prone to dog aggression but play rough (body slamming, neck biting) - do best with other sighthounds who understand the 'chase me' game.
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
Whippet
- Use high-value rewards (real meat/cheese) for recall training
- Keep sessions short and varied - they bore quickly
- Never expect off-leash reliability in open areas
- Focus on impulse control rather than trying to eliminate prey drive
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.
Whippet Considerations
Whippets were bred to live in close quarters with owners, often sleeping in beds for warmth. They have very low tolerance for isolation - many cannot handle a standard 8-9 hour workday alone. Expect whining, howling, and destructive chewing of doorframes and bedding.
Movement triggers an explosive chase response that overrides all training. A plastic bag, squirrel, or even a running small dog can trigger instant 35mph pursuit. Recall is unreliable - a Whippet off-leash in an unfenced area may end up lost or hit by a car.
Extremely thin skin with no protective undercoat or fat layer. Prone to skin tears from minor snags on bushes or rough play. Zero cold tolerance - they will suffer without coats in cold climates.
Generally unsafe around rabbits, rodents, and birds. Cat coexistence is possible but requires careful management and early socialization - outdoor cats are seen as fair game.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | High safety - one of the safest giant breeds for multi-pet homes. Drive is 'chase to play' not 'chase to kill.' | Possible with early socialization and confident cats - but outdoor cats trigger prey drive. Predatory drift can occur even with familiar cats if they bolt suddenly. |
| Small Mammals | Generally safe, but supervise due to size difference | Unsafe - rabbits, rodents, and hamsters are natural prey |
| Birds / Reptiles | Generally safe with livestock but may accidentally squash chickens trying to play | Unsafe - fast, jerky movements trigger the strike reflex |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Arrested | Full |
| Biddability | High | Low |
| Noise Sensitivity | Low | Medium |
| 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.
Whippet: Full predatory sequence: Orient -> Eye -> Stalk -> Chase -> Grab-Bite -> Kill-Bite. Unlike herding dogs (arrested at Chase), Whippets complete the sequence. You cannot train the instinct out, only the control. Management (leash, fence) is safer than relying on training. They are 'cat-like' in biddability - cooperate if reward is high enough or if it's their idea. High adaptive intelligence (problem-solving, opening doors/latches), moderate working intelligence (obedience).
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 6-18 | 6-14 |
| House Training | Easy | Medium |
| 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.
Whippet: Easier than average puppy - cleaner and less destructive than gundogs or terriers. BUT they are fragile - a puppy jumping off a couch can break a leg. House training challenge: they hate rain/cold and may refuse to potty outside in bad weather. Covered potty areas are a lifesaver.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 24 months | 12 months |
| Adolescence | 6-18 | 12-24 |
| Adult Years | 2-7 | 2-9 |
| Senior Onset | ~7 years | ~10 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 1-3 years | 1-3 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 66-71 cm | 44-51 cm |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Extra Large | Medium |
| Lifespan | 9–10 years | 12–15 years |
| Litter Size | 6-10 | 4-8 |
Newfoundland Coat
Whippet Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Hauling fishing nets in freezing North Atlantic waters and pulling carts of catch - the 'St. Bernard of the Water' | Rabbit coursing and rag racing - developed as the 'poor man's racehorse' for working-class entertainment |
| Origin | Newfoundland, Canada - bred for immense strength, water-resistant coat, webbed feet, and gentle disposition | Victorian England (Northern England mining communities), late 19th century |
Breeding Details
| Detail | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | Low | Low |
| Whelping Difficulty | Medium | Easy |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Low | Low |
Physical Risks
| Risk | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | High | Low |
| Slippery Floor Risk | High | Medium |
| Min Fence Height | 1.5m | 1.8m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Low | Low |
Health & Common Conditions
Newfoundland Health Issues
Whippet 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
Whippet Suggested Tests
- Annual Cardiac Auscultation
- Echocardiogram (breeding stock or 7+ years)
- CERF Eye Exam (breeding dogs)
- MDR1 Gene Test
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Medium | Low |
| Cardiac Risk | Very High | High |
| Neurological Risk | Low | Low |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | High | Low |
| Vet Burden Tier | Very High | Low |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Medium | Medium |
| Food Allergies |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Fast |
| Eye Care Needs | Low | Low |
| Anal Gland Issues | Occasional | Occasional |
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.
Whippet Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Mitral Valve Disease (monitor closely)
- Arthritis
- Increased cold sensitivity
Generally sharp cognitively until the end. MVD is common cause of death - presents as coughing or lethargy, manageable with medication for some time. Increased need for warmth and soft bedding in senior years.
Grooming & Care
Newfoundland
high maintenanceWhippet
low maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
Newfoundland Daily Life
Whippet Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | Over 50lbs | 25-50lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | Very High | Low |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Excellent |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | Medium | Low |
| Therapy Dog | High | Medium |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Low | Low |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $2,000-5,000 | $1,200-2,500 |
| Initial Cost Range | $2,000–$5,000 | $1,200–$2,500 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $250–$500 | $100–$180 |
| Yearly Range | $3,000–$6,000 | $1,500–$2,200 |
| Food / Month | $100-150 | $40-70 |
| Insurance / Month | $100-250 | $30-50 |
| Grooming / Session | $100-150 | $30-50 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $800-1,500 | $400-800 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
Newfoundland Lifetime Cost
$30,000-60,000
Whippet Lifetime Cost
$18,000-35,000
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | Newfoundland | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Occasional | Occasional |
| Slobber Level | Heavy | None |
| Smell When Wet | Strong | Mild |
| Zoomies Frequency | Rare | Daily |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | Low | None |
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.
Whippet Quirks
The Whippet Lean
Will lean their full body weight against your legs while standing - affectionate but can knock you off balance
Roaching
Sleep on their backs with legs in the air - the 'dead cockroach' pose. Perfectly normal and indicates comfort.
Heat-Seeking Missiles
If you stand up, your warm seat is gone. They will claim any warm spot instantly.
The 23-Hour Nap
After their hour of activity, they will happily sleep the remaining 23 hours. Best metabolic off-switch in the dog world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Turn your dog into a brand deal.
Pet brands are looking for authentic creators — not celebrities. If you own a Newfoundland or Whippet, you can get free products, gear, and exclusive perks just for sharing your dog's life on Instagram.
No followers minimum · Free to join
Compare with Other Breeds
Compare Newfoundland with:
Based on comprehensive breed research data.