Newfoundlands and German Shepherds are two different breeds that have different characteristics that set them apart. While both dogs are considered sociable dogs, many seem to wonder if the two breeds are compatible.
Do Newfies Get Along With German Shepherds?
Newfoundlands are largely known for their sweet and affectionate nature, whereas German Shepherds are known for their protective nature and loyalty. These two dog breeds can make a friendly atmosphere in regard to compatibility.
The Newfoundland is known as the “working” dog, while the German Shepherd is known as the “herding” dog. Both dog breeds are very loyal, affectionate, highly energetic, and loving towards their owners and families.
Here are some facts regarding their similarities, differences, and what makes these two dog breeds compatible.
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Do the Differences In Breeds Affect Their Ability To Get Along?
The differences in dog breeds can vary depending on their personality traits. Newfoundlands can be very sweet-tempered, loving, and trainable, whereas German Shepherds are highly intelligent, watchful, and typically more alert.
Newfoundlands have a more friendly nature, and it is possible for them to socialize and get along with other dogs. On the other hand, German Shepherds can get along with other dogs, but because of their intelligence and watchful nature, they can seem unresponsive to dogs they don’t know.
Most importantly, different breeds of dogs come from different environments. This can have an effect on their compatibility. If you are a new dog owner, it is important that you demonstrate proper dog-to-dog communication, as well as strong leadership.
If dogs are raised in the same environment, they will most likely get along with each other. Moreover, it is important that you take your time introducing two different dog breeds.
Newfoundland vs German Shepherd – Size Comparison
While both breeds are pretty large in size, they carry some differences pertaining to their weight. Here are the size comparisons that set these two dog breeds apart.
Newfoundland
Known as the “working” dog breed, the Newfoundland originated in Newfoundland, Canada. They are considered a large breed and are said to be one of the world’s largest dogs. With a thick, coarse coat of fur and webbed feet for water, they can withstand cold weather conditions.
They are great swimmers and were used to pull nets for fishermen or haul wood. Some also consider them to be “giant” because of their massive size.
Average Weight:
- Male – About 140 pounds
- Female – About 115 pounds
Average Height:
- Male – 28 inches
- Female – 26 inches
Newfies can grow pretty slowly. It can take up to two years for them to reach their potential weight.
German Shepherd
Originating from Germany, the German Shepherd is nicknamed the “herding” breed. German shepherds are muscular, agile, and willing to put their lives on the line in times of defense.
They have a long muzzle, pointy ears, and bushy tails. This dog fits into the large category and was known for herding sheep and protecting them against predators.
Average Weight:
- Male – About 77 pounds
- Female – 60 pounds
Average Height:
- Male – 25 inches
- Female – 23 inches
Just like the Newfie, German Shepherds can take about two to almost two and a half years to reach their full weight.
Newfoundland vs German Shepherd – Temperament Comparison
Newfies and German Shepherds share some differences in temperament. The Newfie can be lovable and friendly among first-time owners, children, and other animals.
Although the German Shepherd is affectionate to their families, they are more alert amongst strangers and other animals. Here are their differences in temperament.
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are sociable to visitors and are considered the “nanny” dog. They are great with children because of their patience and lovable nature, but it is recommended to supervise them around small children.
They are extremely protective and can be considered guard dogs, but they are not as aggressive. Here are their traits:
- Gentle
- Sociable
- Courageous
- Loyal
- Very friendly
- Sweet-natured
German Shepherd
It is stated that German Shepherds tend to be more aloof but entirely aggressive. If you are considering a protective, guard dog, this breed may be the right fit for you.
Unlike the Newfie, they are not very fond of frequent visitors and are more likely to bite strangers. Here are their traits:
- Courageous
- Intelligent
- Very alert
- Obedient
- Loyal
- Curious
- Watchful Nature
Newfoundland vs German Shepherd – Guarding Instincts
These two dog breeds vary in their guarding capabilities. Although both are very protective of the ones they love, they are significantly different in their guarding nature. Here is how you can compare these two breeds.
Newfoundland
Newfies can have strong and protective instincts towards their closest companions that can make them good watchdogs. However, they are not the best candidate for being a guard dog.
Newfies are not the most possessive dogs and don’t care much about materialistic things. If a stranger were to come into an unoccupied home, they won’t make much of a fuss about it.
Because of their attachment to family, Newfies have a strong physique, they have a deep bark, and their incredible amounts of drool can throw unwelcome visitors off.
German Shepherd
This dog breed carries natural protective instincts and can be perfect as a guard dog. German Shepherds are selfless and have a strong desire to protect their owners and loved ones. Even more so, they will put their own lives on the line if a threat were to occur.
Furthermore, German Shepherds are capable of protecting their homes. Most owners of this dog breed will find comfort in knowing their home is a safe environment.
Newfoundlands vs German Shepherds – Who’s More Territorial?
Being territorial is very common in various breeds of dogs. Certain aspects can make both breeds territorial, such as their personality or upbringing. So, who’s more territorial?
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are said to be one of the best watchdogs. They have strong vocals and a great sense of hearing that can be great for unwelcome visitors. Oftentimes, they are territorial towards their property and will alert their owners if they sense something unusual, but they are not as aggressive.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are known for their natural territorial nature. This breed’s main instinct is to protect the environment they view as their own. For instance, they will protect their home as well as its surroundings. They will simply bark and even bite at those they are not familiar with.
Moreover, they are known for chasing away prey and showing protective aggression if they believe their loved ones are being threatened.
Newfoundland vs German Shepherd – Are They Dominant?
Some breeds of dogs can show dominance toward their owners if they are not trained properly. Here’s what you need to know about their dominant instincts.
Newfoundland
Newfies are usually well-behaved and are more submissive towards their owners if they are trained properly. It is stated that male Newfies can be more aggressive toward other male dogs.
In rare cases, they can be dominantly aggressive toward people if they are not properly socialized.
German Shepherd
Aside from aggression, the German Shepherd can be naturally dominant towards their owners or other animals. It is essential to properly train them in respect and obedience commands to avoid sudden aggression.
Newfoundland vs German Shepherd – Energy Levels Compared
Most dogs are filled with high levels of energy, while some are energetic but enjoy being laid back and cuddling beside you. Here’s what you need to know regarding their energy levels.
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are strong dogs that are known for hauling loads. They can be pretty energetic, but they are medium-level dogs. Although Newfies need daily exercise to keep them fit, they enjoy being laid back and quiet.
German Shepherd
Surprisingly, German Shepherds have high energy levels. They even enjoy specific jobs that stimulate their minds. For example, a German Shepherd will do some kind of work in exchange for a game of fetch.
It is essential to provide daily exercise to keep them fit and to avoid developing health problems over time.
Training Needs Compared
Every dog requires training, but they vary amongst different breeds. It is important that you begin their training early on to avoid acts of aggression. Here are the different kinds of training requirements for each dog breed.
Newfoundland
You won’t find it an obstacle to train a Newfie. They learn fairly quickly and are very eager to please their owners. You can take your Newfie on daily walks to keep them fit, and they are great with agility.
Since they are great swimmers, you can train them in the water as early as 4 months. Also, early socialization and obedience training is highly recommended.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are also eager to please, have high trainability, and can perform almost any task that is ahead of them. They require daily walks and can be trained in agility. Socialization is important during their early years to avoid aggressive behavior.
Crate training is another type of training that can reduce the risk of developing social anxiety. Also, German Shepherds are one of the easiest breeds to learn obedience training, which is essential for them.
Are Newfies And German Shepherds Compatible?
German Shepherds are known for their high levels of intelligence. Just like Newfoundlands, German Shepherds are eager to please and easy to train. They are just as curious to learn new things and develop new skills.
Newfies are more sociable, while German Shepherds are more alert and can come off as aggressive. Both breeds have the ability to protect, be affectionate, and loving towards those that are close to them.
Although the two breeds show some differences in size and character traits, they can make a great pair.
