Breed comparison
Mastiff vs Newfoundland
How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.
Mastiff
Newfoundland5Affection with family5
5Good with young children5
3Good with other dogs5
3Openness to strangers5
3Playfulness3
3Energy level3
3Trainability3
3Mental stimulation needs3
4Adaptability4
5Watchdog / protective5
1Barking1
3Shedding3
1Coat grooming2
4Drooling5
The biggest differences
- Good with other dogs: the Newfoundland scores 5 out of 5, the Mastiff 3.
- Openness to strangers: the Newfoundland scores 5 out of 5, the Mastiff 3.
They score the same on affection with family, good with young children, playfulness, energy level, trainability, mental stimulation needs.
Which one should you choose?
Pick the Mastiff if its looks and size suit you better, since the ratings are close. Pick the Newfoundland if you have other dogs.
Ratings are general breed tendencies from the AKC. Every dog is an individual, so meet the dog, and its parents if you can, before you decide. Not sure? Try the breed selector.
Source: American Kennel Club breed ratings (compiled February 2022). How we check.