Newfoundland vs Yorkshire Terrier
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
Yorkshire Terrier
Also known as: Yorkie, Yorkshire
The Yorkshire Terrier is often mischaracterized as a mere lapdog accessory. In reality, this is a **terrier** first and a companion second. While affectionate and portable, their genetic heritage as vermin exterminators in textile mills drives a personality that is tenacious, vocal, and surprisingly intense. Often called 'the Yorkie', this breed packs big-dog attitude into a tiny frame.
Extra Small
Medium
13.56 yrs
17-20 cm
Up to 3.2kg (often larger in pet lines: 4-5kg) kg
Quick Comparison
| Trait | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Extra Large | Extra Small |
| Energy Level | Medium | Medium |
| Grooming | High | High |
| Trainability | Moderate | Moderate |
| Barking Level | Low | High |
| Shedding Level | High | Low |
| Chew strength | Moderate | Light |
| Housing | Yard | Apartment |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Beginner (temperament) but Advanced (logistics/finances) | Intermediate |
| 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. | Diligent owner with patience for house training and consistent grooming routine. Works from home or can provide frequent bathroom breaks. Understands this is a high-maintenance dog in a small package. |
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
Yorkshire Terrier Dealbreakers
- Families with toddlers - fragility makes this unsafe
- Full-time workers away 8+ hours - bladder cannot hold it
- Anyone wanting a 'low maintenance' dog
- Noise-sensitive neighbors in apartments
Surrender Risk
| Factor | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Level | Medium | Medium |
| 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 | It won't stop peeing in the house (house training failure), It snapped at the baby (resource guarding/fear), The barking is driving neighbors crazy |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | Low | High |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | Low | Medium |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Low | Moderate |
Newfoundland Social Traits
None
Generally low - tolerant of other dogs. Same-sex aggression rare but can occur in intact males.
Yorkshire Terrier Social Traits
High - naturally suspicious, early socialization required to prevent fear biting
Often reactive to larger dogs - usually fear-based, not dominance
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
Yorkshire Terrier
- Keep sessions SHORT (5 minutes max) - they bore easily
- High-value treats essential - they won't work just to please you
- Indoor pee pad system may be necessary permanent solution
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.
Yorkshire Terrier Considerations
This is the single most cited failure mode for the breed. Due to tiny bladders and terrier stubbornness, Yorkies are notoriously difficult to housebreak. Many owners report accidents persisting well into adulthood, and some never become 100% reliable without indoor pads.
The 'watchdog' trait is hardwired. They will announce every delivery driver, neighbor, and squirrel with sharp, high-pitched barking. This can lead to neighbor complaints and eviction notices in apartments.
Yorkies often don't perceive their small size, leading to 'Napoleonic' aggression toward much larger dogs. This is usually fear-based reactivity, not actual courage, but can be dangerous.
A toddler falling on a Yorkie can kill the dog. They can be fatally injured by being dropped, stepped on, or sat upon. Not suitable for homes with young children.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | High safety - one of the safest giant breeds for multi-pet homes. Drive is 'chase to play' not 'chase to kill.' | Generally safe if raised together - but may harass a cat that runs |
| Small Mammals | Generally safe, but supervise due to size difference | UNSAFE - the ratting instinct is alive. Dangerous to hamsters, gerbils, birds. |
| Birds / Reptiles | Generally safe with livestock but may accidentally squash chickens trying to play | Unsafe - predatory drift will trigger chase/kill |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Arrested | Full |
| Biddability | High | Moderate |
| 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.
Yorkshire Terrier: Unlike a Cavalier where the sequence is eroded, the Yorkie retains the Kill-Bite part of the sequence for small vermin. High intelligence but asks 'Why?' before 'How high?' - less eager to please than a Poodle.
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 6-18 | 6-12 |
| House Training | Easy | Very Hard |
| Crate Training | Medium | Medium |
| 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.
Yorkshire Terrier: Unlike larger breeds, you cannot simply 'crate and wait' - their bladders are too small. Expect accidents for the first year. The combination of extreme fragility, house training difficulty, and hypoglycemia risks makes Yorkie puppies very demanding.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 24 months | 10 months |
| Adolescence | 6-18 | 4-10 |
| Adult Years | 2-7 | 1.5-8 |
| Senior Onset | ~7 years | ~9 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 1-3 years | 1-4 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 66-71 cm | 17-20 cm |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Extra Large | Extra Small |
| Lifespan | 9–10 years | 14 years |
| Litter Size | 6-10 | 2-4 |
Newfoundland Coat
Yorkshire Terrier Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Hauling fishing nets in freezing North Atlantic waters and pulling carts of catch - the 'St. Bernard of the Water' | Vermin extermination in textile mills and coal mines |
| Origin | Newfoundland, Canada - bred for immense strength, water-resistant coat, webbed feet, and gentle disposition | Yorkshire, England, mid-19th century |
Breeding Details
| Detail | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | Low | High |
| Whelping Difficulty | Medium | Hard |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Low | Higher than average - fading puppy syndrome and hypoglycemia |
Physical Risks
| Risk | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | High | Low |
| Slippery Floor Risk | High | Medium |
| Min Fence Height | 1.5m | 0.9m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Low | Low |
Health & Common Conditions
Newfoundland Health Issues
Yorkshire Terrier 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
Yorkshire Terrier Suggested Tests
- Bile Acid Test (for Liver Shunt) - critical for puppies
- OFA Patella evaluation for breeding stock
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| 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-High |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Medium | Medium |
| Food Allergies | Chicken, Grains |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Fast |
| Eye Care Needs | Low | Medium |
| Anal Gland Issues | Occasional | Common - scooting indicates need for expression |
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.
Yorkshire Terrier Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Cognitive dysfunction (dementia)
- Blindness (cataracts)
- Kidney failure
- Dental disease progression
Often sharp decline after 12 years. Long-lived breed (median 13.56 years) but quality of life compromised by dental and cognitive issues.
Grooming & Care
Newfoundland
high maintenanceYorkshire Terrier
high maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
Newfoundland Daily Life
Yorkshire Terrier Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | Over 50lbs | Under 25lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | Very High | Low |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Good |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $250–$500 | $100–$200 |
| Yearly Range | $3,000–$6,000 | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Food / Month | $100-150 | $20-40 |
| Insurance / Month | $100-250 | $35-60 |
| Grooming / Session | $100-150 | $50-100 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $800-1,500 | $300-600 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
Newfoundland Lifetime Cost
$30,000-60,000
Yorkshire Terrier Lifetime Cost
$15,000-30,000
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | Newfoundland | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Occasional | Rare |
| Slobber Level | Heavy | None |
| Smell When Wet | Strong | None - hair doesn't hold oil/odor like double-coated breeds |
| Zoomies Frequency | Rare | Weekly |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | Low | Low-Medium |
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.
Yorkshire Terrier Quirks
Reverse Sneezing
A spasm of the throat/soft palate that sounds like a goose honking. Scary for owners but usually harmless.
The Yorkie Shake
Will violently shake toys - this is the motor pattern for breaking a rat's neck, their genetic heritage
Weather Diva
Often refuses to go outside in rain or cold - may require indoor pee pad system year-round
Velcro Mode
Will follow you to the bathroom, sit on your feet while you cook, and attempt to sleep on your head
Frequently Asked Questions
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