Bulldog vs Newfoundland
Side-by-side comparison: temperament, exercise, grooming, health, and cost of ownership.
Bulldog
The gentle, courageous Bulldog is a beloved symbol of determination. Despite their muscular build, they are calm and friendly companions who prefer lounging on the couch to long hikes.
VS
Newfoundland
A sweet-natured giant bred for water rescue, the Newfoundland is often called a 'nanny dog' for their exceptional gentleness with children. They are strong swimmers and devoted family protectors.
Quick Answer
Choose Bulldog if you want more apartment-friendly and less shedding. Choose Newfoundland if you want easier to train and better with kids.
Quick Comparison
Bulldog
Attribute
Newfoundland
medium
Size
giant
18–25 kg (40–55 lbs)
Weight
45–70 kg (99–154 lbs)
31–40 cm (12–16 in)
Height
63–74 cm (25–29 in)
8–10 yrs
Lifespan
8–10 yrs
2/5
Trainability
4/5Better
2/5
Energy
2/5
4/5
Good with Kids
5/5Better
Better3/5
Shedding
5/5
Better2/5
Grooming
4/5
Better5/5
Apartment
1/5
1/5
Health
2/5Better
$1,500–$4,000
Price
$1,500–$3,000Better
Attribute Comparison
Size Differences: Bulldog vs Newfoundland
Newfoundland is the larger breed; Bulldog is more compact.
Bulldog
Newfoundland
Weight (kg)
18–25
vs45–70
Height (cm)
31–40
vs63–74
These two breeds look nothing alike. The Newfoundland is a giant breed at 45–70 kg (99–154 lbs) and 63–74 cm (25–29 in), while the Bulldog is a medium breed at just 18–25 kg (40–55 lbs) and 31–40 cm (12–16 in).
Bulldog vs Newfoundland: Daily Exercise Demands
Newfoundland needs more exercise; Bulldog is lower-maintenance.
Bulldog
Newfoundland
Energy Level
2/5
vs2/5
Exercise Needs
2/5
vs3/5
Apartment Friendly
Better5/5
vs1/5
The Newfoundland needs slightly more exercise (3/5) than the Bulldog (2/5), but neither breed is at an extreme. Both have low to low energy levels, so the difference in your daily routine will be modest — perhaps an extra 15-20 minutes of activity for the Newfoundland.
Grooming and Shedding: Bulldog vs Newfoundland
Newfoundland sheds more; Bulldog is easier to maintain.
Bulldog
Newfoundland
Shedding
Better3/5
vs5/5
Grooming Needs
Better2/5
vs4/5
If you hate vacuuming, this matters. The Newfoundland's 5/5 shedding level means daily fur management is part of life.
Training Differences: Bulldog and Newfoundland
Newfoundland is generally easier to train.
Bulldog
Newfoundland
Trainability
2/5
vs4/5Better
Intelligence
2/5
vs4/5Better
If you're a first-time dog owner, this is critical. The Newfoundland's trainability score of 4/5 means it responds well to basic positive reinforcement and learns household rules fast.
Family Life: Bulldog vs Newfoundland
Newfoundland is better suited for families with children.
Bulldog
Newfoundland
Good with Kids
4/5
vs5/5Better
Good with Dogs
3/5
vs5/5Better
Strangers
4/5
vs5/5Better
The Newfoundland has a slight edge with children (5/5 vs 4/5). Both breeds can do well in families, but the Newfoundland's sweet temperament gives it a small advantage around young kids.
Total Cost of Ownership: Bulldog and Newfoundland
Bulldog is less expensive to own annually.
Bulldog
Avg. Purchase$2,750
Annual Food$600
Annual Vet$900
Annual Grooming$100
Annual Total$1,600 ✓
Newfoundland
Avg. Purchase$2,250
Annual Food$1,080
Annual Vet$700
Annual Grooming$300
Annual Total$2,080
Purchase prices are in the same ballpark: $1,500–$4,000 for a Bulldog and $1,500–$3,000 for a Newfoundland. The initial investment won't differ dramatically between these two breeds.
Health and Lifespan: Bulldog vs Newfoundland
Newfoundland tends to be the healthier breed overall.
Bulldog
Newfoundland
Lifespan (years)
8–10
vs8–10
Health Robustness
1/5
vs2/5Better
Lifespan is a near-tie: the Bulldog lives roughly 8–10 years while the Newfoundland averages 8–10 years. Neither breed has a clear longevity advantage, so other factors should drive your choice.
Bulldog vs Newfoundland: Temperament Compared
Both breeds have similar temperaments.
Bulldog
Newfoundland
Playfulness
3/5
vs3/5
Barking Level
2/5
vs2/5
Energy
2/5
vs2/5
Personality is where these two breeds diverge most visibly. The Bulldog — originally from England — has a docile, willful and friendly disposition.
Bulldog vs Newfoundland: Summary and Verdict
Neither breed is objectively "better" — it depends on your priorities. Choose the Bulldog if you value more apartment-friendly (5/5) and lower exercise needs (2/5).
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Question 1 of 3
Do you have children at home?
The Verdict
The Bulldog and Newfoundland are both popular breeds, but they suit different lifestyles. The key differences: Newfoundland sheds considerably more, Newfoundland is notably easier to train. Annual ownership costs are lower for the Bulldog by roughly $500/year.
Choose Bulldog if...
- ✓You live in an apartment or don't have a yard — Bulldogs adapt much better to smaller spaces (5/5 vs 1/5 apartment rating).
- ✓Budget matters to you — Bulldogs cost roughly $500 less per year in food, vet, and grooming.
Choose Newfoundland if...
- ✓Long-term health costs concern you — Newfoundlands are generally more robust (2/5 health score).
- ✓You have other dogs at home — Newfoundlands tend to get along well with other dogs (5/5).
- ✓Their temperament and lifestyle fit aligns better with your situation — use our quiz for a personalized recommendation.
Neither may be right if...
Both breeds have significant health concerns and above-average vet costs. If budget is a constraint, consider looking at breeds with health robustness scores of 4–5/5, such as the Beagle or Australian Cattle Dog.
Looking for more options?
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for families, Bulldog or Newfoundland?
The Newfoundland is generally better with children, scoring 5/5 compared to the Bulldog's 4/5. The Newfoundland is one of our top-recommended breeds for families.
Is a Bulldog or Newfoundland easier to train?
The Newfoundland is easier to train, scoring 4/5 versus the Bulldog's 2/5. The Newfoundland's eagerness to please makes training sessions more productive.
Which costs more, a Bulldog or Newfoundland?
A Bulldog puppy costs $1,500–$4,000 while a Newfoundland costs $1,500–$3,000. Annual maintenance runs about $1,600 for the Bulldog and $2,080 for the Newfoundland. The Newfoundland costs more to maintain annually.
Do Bulldogs or Newfoundlands live longer?
The Bulldog lives 8–10 years on average, while the Newfoundland lives 8–10 years. Both breeds have similar lifespans. Proper diet, exercise, and regular vet care help maximize lifespan for either breed.
Can a Bulldog or Newfoundland live in an apartment?
The Bulldog is better suited for apartments (5/5) compared to the Newfoundland (1/5). The Bulldog is one of our top picks for apartment living.