
Newfoundland Training Profile
Breed Group
Working Dogs
Country of Origin
Canada
Breed Size
Giant
AKC Recognition
Yes, recognized in 1886
FCI Recognition
Yes, recognized in 1954
Mental stimulation needs
Very Low1 / 10
Trainability
2 / 10
Picky eater
Eats Everything10 / 10
Easy to train
Very Easy10 / 10
Training stubbornness
Not Stubborn10 / 10
Puppy training
Easy10 / 10
Training FAQ
Are Newfoundland easy to train?
Newfoundlands are exceptionally easy to train due to their high intelligence and strong desire to please. Known as gentle giants, they respond best to calm, positive reinforcement. Their eager nature and stable temperament make them ideal students for owners who provide consistent, reward-based guidance from puppyhood.
Easy to train: 10 / 10
Are Newfoundland stubborn to train?
Newfoundlands are generally not considered stubborn; they are intelligent, eager to please, and highly responsive to training. However, their calm, laid-back nature can sometimes be mistaken for laziness. They respond best to patient, positive reinforcement and consistent guidance to keep them motivated and engaged.
Training stubbornness: 10 / 10
How do you train a Newfoundland puppy?
Train your Newfoundland puppy using calm, consistent, and positive reinforcement. Focus on early socialization and basic commands like "sit" to manage their future size. Because they are sensitive and eager to please, avoid harsh tones. Keep sessions short and engaging to prevent these intelligent giants from getting bored.
Puppy training: 10 / 10
How difficult is potty training in Newfoundland?
Potty training a Newfoundland typically takes several months, as they mature more slowly than smaller breeds. While they are eager to please and intelligent, their large size and water consumption require a rigid schedule. Success relies on consistent positive reinforcement, crate training, and proactive outdoor breaks.
Potty training difficulty: 2 / 10
How many walks does a Newfoundland need?
Newfoundlands require moderate daily exercise, typically consisting of one or two 30-minute walks. Despite their large size, they are relatively laid-back. Swimming is an excellent low-impact alternative that protects their joints. Always avoid strenuous activity during hot weather, as their thick coats make them prone to overheating.
Walking need: 10 / 10
What is the best daily routine for a Newfoundland?
A Newfoundland's daily routine should focus on moderate activity and joint health. Provide 30 to 60 minutes of low-impact exercise, such as two 30-minute walks or a swim, ideally during cooler morning or evening hours to prevent overheating. Feed adult Newfoundlands twice daily and puppies three to four times to maintain a healthy weight and support their large frames. Essential daily care includes brushing their thick double coat to prevent matting, plus short, calm training sessions using positive reinforcement. Ensure they have a cool place to rest and avoid high-impact activities that could strain their joints.
Routine need: 6 / 10
Vet Insights
Newfoundlands are intelligent, eager-to-please "gentle giants" who respond well to calm, positive reinforcement. While highly trainable, they require patient housebreaking due to slow maturation. Their care routine prioritizes joint health and heat management, involving 30 to 60 minutes of low-impact exercise like swimming. Regular brushing of their thick double coat is essential to prevent matting and maintain health.

























