Newfoundlands are known for their size and thick coat. It comes as no surprise that they are classified as a large dog breed. Their big and strong bodies have been put to use for generations; they are a working dog by nature. But how big does the average Newfoundland get and what kind of size do they grow to? What kind of growth rate can you expect from a young puppy and what factors can influence their final size? With these questions in mind, I spent some time researching the breed. I would like to share the information I found here today.

So, how big do Newfoundlands get? The average Newfoundland will reach between 26-28 inches in height and 130-150 pounds. They will reach their full adult size by around two years of age. Male Newfoundlands are typically larger than females, where you can expect them to be at the higher end of the range. Females gravitate towards the lower end of the range.

The Newfoundland is a powerfully-built dog breed with a sweet temperament and a kind nature. These dogs are amiable; they love the company of anybody, especially children. The Newfoundland is a real gentle giant.

Newfoundlands were bred to be a working dog, and they are striking to behold, with their massive bone structure and frame.

As polite as the Newfoundland is, they really benefit from early obedience training – these dogs need lots of motivation as they have an independent streak. These large dogs must learn to obey their owners, or they can get out of control as they grow.

Factors that impact the overall size of a Newfoundland include health, nutrition, and exercise. Food is crucial; Newfoundlands need a high-quality, age-appropriate diet from a young age.

The right nutrition from puppyhood will help your Newfie develop into a super majestic and robust dog. Be aware that the Newfoundland is prone to specific health issues that can shorten their lifespan; unfortunately, this is something for which you must prepare.

If these dogs are well cared for, they can develop into healthy and happy dogs that love life. They have a median lifespan of 8 to 10 years, but they can live longer if raised well and do not inherit and serious health conditions.

Generally, they have a sweet disposition despite their enormous build, and they make excellent companions for children.

Let us now take a closer look at the average Newfoundland size in greater detail. We will be covering the growth rate of a Newfie puppy from adoption (11 weeks old) and other important considerations so be sure to keep reading to get all the information on this breed you need.

Average Newfoundland Height, Weight, And Size

Male Newfoundlands weigh between 130-150 pounds, and females weigh between 100-120 pounds.

Male Newfoundlands will reach a height of 28 inches, and females will reach a height of 26 inches to the shoulder by the time they are fully grown.

For Newfies, this is usually by the time they reach two years of age.

Some Newfies can weigh more than 200 pounds, the largest on record weighed a whopping 260 pounds, and measured beyond 6 feet from nose to tail.

Not really a surprise to learn, but this dog is ranked among the largest of all dog breeds. T

he Newfies’ large bones give this dog its mass, and its musculature gives them the strength and endurance. In fact, they are very strong swimmers, and have a range of characteristics to help them contend with powerful tides and rough ocean waves.

The Newfoundland has an incredible lung capacity, which provides them with the power to swim long distances, his thick, waterproof coat protect them from the cold icy waters.

These dogs used to work for fishermen in Newfoundland (hence their name) and they were successful at their job due to their intelligence and strength.

Newfies excel at lifesaving and water rescue due to their sturdy build, webbed paws, dense double coat, and swimming capabilities.

Their size and power has clearly been put to use!

When Is A Newfoundland Fully Grown?

Newfoundlands are usually fully grown by the time they are two years old. This is when you can expect them to reach their adult size, and no longer continue to grow (healthily).

They can increase in weight beyond this time, but consider that this may be weight gain that is not desirable and should be managed.

Let us now take a closer look at the example of a Newfoundland puppy taken in at 12 weeks of age. It provides a good overview of what you can expect if you take a puppy in, and how quickly they can grow. The following table outlines the growth rate in each week following birth:

Age	Weight (Pounds)
11 Weeks	20 lbs
12 Weeks	22.7 lbs
13 Weeks	25.5 lbs
14 Weeks	29.3 lbs
15 Weeks	33.2 lbs
16 Weeks	36.8 lbs
17 Weeks	41.6 lbs
18 Weeks	45.6 lbs
19 Weeks	50.8 lbs
20 Weeks	54 lbs
21 Weeks	55.4 lbs
22 Weeks	59 lbs
23 Weeks	61.6 lbs
24 Weeks	65.4 lbs
25 Weeks	66 lbs
26 Weeks (Half A Year)	69.4 lbs
52 Weeks (A Year Old)	138 lbs

Emotional maturity can take longer; depending on each individual. Some Newfies mature faster than others, depending on their personality. Consider that large and giant breeds take longer to grow emotionally.

Newfoundland puppies are particularly excitable and will jump on their owners as soon as they come in the door. They love to give you a very enthusiastic greeting. These puppies are very excited about everything, but as they mature, they do calm down, be less excitable and perhaps even less playful.

A good indication that your dog is an adult is when they have calmed down significantly, and not as rambunctious as they used to be.

Sexual maturity can take around two years as well; some Newfies have their first season of heat by the time they are 24 months old.

One thing you may always have to deal with, no matter how old your Newfie is, is separation anxiety and destructiveness when they are left on their own too much or for too long.

If you get an opportunity to train your dog to get used to being alone, it will benefit you and them alike.

Fearfulness is another issue with Newfoundlands, but that can be due to not enough socialization from a young age.

What Contributes To A Newfoundland’s Size?

If your Newfoundland is well looked after, trained, socialized, and does not inherit any adverse health conditions or any birth defects, they will develop into a large and loving dog that is happy, healthy, well-adjusted, and pleasant to be around.

These dogs make excellent companions and even have the reputation of being excellent nanny dogs for children.

Let’s discuss what contributes to a Newfoundland’s size:

Nutrition

The Newfoundland thrives on high-quality dog food. You can provide commercially manufactured dog food, which is well-formulated and healthy for your dog, or you can prepare your own dog food, under the advice of your vet.

Your Newfie’s diet must be age-appropriate, for when he is at the puppy, adult, or senior stage of his life.

It is easy for a Newfoundland to become overweight, so you must watch your Newfie’s calorie intake and exercise portion control, where possible.

Treats are an essential part of training for any canine, but you must exercise caution when offering treats to your companion.

Always communicate with your vet, if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight, never leave it to chance.

Newfoundlands are prone to Bloat, which is a life-threatening condition; it occurs when your dog’s stomach twists and distends. There is no exact way to determine what causes bloat.

Still, many experts agree that it’s best to offer your dog multiple, small meals a day and to discourage your dog from engaging in strenuous exercise around mealtimes.

Newfie puppies require slow and steady growth. An excellent example of a balanced diet consists of 22-24% protein and 12-15 percent fat.

It’s best to feed your Newfie twice a day rather than leaving food out regularly.

Keep your Newfoundland in good health by measuring their food; you can give them the eye-test if you are unsure if they are overweight.

The eye-test consists of looking at them and being able to see their waist, then putting your hands on your dog’s back with your thumbs along the spine. You should be able to feel their ribs but not see them without having to press hard. Otherwise, they will need to eat less and exercise more.

Exercise

The Newfoundland is a multipurpose dog; they can be active in water as well as on land. These dogs are skilled at draft work and have keen lifesaving instincts.

These powerful giants need at least one-half hour of moderate exercise per stay to stay healthy.

Newfoundlands enjoy outdoor activities, but they especially love being in the water. These dogs are excellent walking companions on hikes and long walks. Newfies excel in other activities like flyball, herding, obedience, tracking, rally, agility, and dock jumping.

If you are training Newfoundland for water work, you must gently introduce them to the water by the age of four months. Thankfully they are easy to train and eager to please.

Health

The Newfoundland is prone to numerous health problems that include hip dysplasia (a malformation of the ball and socket inside of the hip joint).

They can also get elbow dysplasia and cystinuria (this is a hereditary defect where calculi stones build up in the bladder).

Both of which can have an impact on their final size; it may cause them to not grow to their full potential if they develop early.

Newfoundlands are also prone to heart problems like subvalvular aortic stenosis; this can cause sudden death at quite a young age. SAS is very like having a heart attack.

Other conditions they are susceptible for are referenced on the PetMD site.

Newfoundlands have an average lifespan of 8 to 10 years, but they can live up into the teens even making it to 15 years old if looked after well and do not suffer with any life-threatening conditions.

Finally

Newfoundlands are a large dog breed, but they are very gentle natured and excellent with children.

These are fantastic dogs for owners that love an enormous, powerful, and cuddly dog that has a dense furry coat. People are often surprised by how polite Newfies are – they are respectful and kind to everyone.

With proper training, these gentle giants can be a beautiful, well-rounded dog; they respond well to training, but softly and slowly, that involves lots of rewards and praise.

You can have a lot of fun with this dog as they enjoy pulling carts and sleds, swimming, and romping in the cold weather. No doubt, you can make many happy memories.

Separation anxiety, destructiveness, and fearfulness are issues that you may have to contend with no matter the age of your Newfie.

You can prevent some of the negative traits by adopting an adult dog from a shelter or rescue group – that way, you can see first-hand the personality of the dog.

If you choose to get a Newfoundland as a puppy, you should choose a reputable breeder. This way, you will ensure you are adopting a dog from a superior lineage of dog. You will also be able to get information on the puppy’s background and receive advice on how to care for your Newfoundland pup; as best as you can.

This way, you will ensure that they reach their full growth and potential.

How Big Do Newfoundlands Get? [Average Height, Weight & Size]