English Mastiff vs Newfoundland

Side-by-side comparison of two popular breeds — temperament, exercise, grooming, lifespan and common health issues. Use it to decide which breed fits your home.

English Mastiff vs Newfoundland — at a glance

The English Mastiff (54–104 kg, 6–10 years) and the Newfoundland (45–68 kg, 9–10 years) sit in different — or sometimes overlapping — corners of dog ownership. Here's how they really compare for an everyday Irish or UK family.

Both breeds have similar energy demands — Newfoundland tips slightly higher but neither is a couch dog.

Grooming is where these breeds really diverge: the Newfoundland needs significantly more brushing, washing and coat care. Factor in €30–€80 every 6–8 weeks for a professional groomer if you don't do it yourself.

Insurance premiums for breeds with brachycephalic, joint or cancer predispositions run 20–40% above average — check before you commit. We have a free quote calculator here.

	English Mastiff	Newfoundland
Group	Working	Working
Origin	England	Canada (Newfoundland)
Weight	54–104 kg	45–68 kg
Height	70–84 cm	66–71 cm
Lifespan	6–10 years	9–10 years
Energy level
Trainability
Grooming needs
Good with kids
Good with other pets
Hypoallergenic
Watchdog instinct
Novice-owner OK

English Mastiff

Temperament

Calm, affectionate, dignified, protective. Mastiffs are famously good with children of their own family. Wary of strangers but rarely aggressive — they tend to body-block rather than attack.

Exercise

30–45 minutes a day of moderate walking. Heavy-bodied breeds shouldn't jog or run on hard surfaces. Puppies must avoid impact until 18 months+.

Grooming

Short coat, weekly brush. Drool prevention bibs help.

Health

Bloat / GDV. Hip / elbow dysplasia. Cardiomyopathy. Cancers (lymphoma, osteosarcoma). Eye conditions. Lifespan 6–10 years.

Full English Mastiff profile →

Newfoundland

Temperament

Sweet, calm, patient, loyal. Newfoundlands bond closely with their family, are remarkably tolerant with children of all ages, and tend to get along with other animals.

Exercise

45–60 minutes of moderate daily exercise. Swimming is ideal — they're built for it (webbed feet, water-repellent coat). Avoid impact exercise in puppies.

Grooming

Heavy double coat — brush 3–4× weekly, daily during seasonal moults. Bathe every 6–8 weeks. Drool is significant.

Health

Cardiomyopathy / aortic stenosis. Hip dysplasia. Cystinuria (DNA test). Bloat / GDV. Lifespan averages just 9–10 years.

Full Newfoundland profile →

Which is right for you?

Pick the English Mastiff if

Calm households with space, owners who can budget for giant-breed care.

Pick the Newfoundland if

Families with children, large homes, cool climates, owners near water.

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