Straight answers on kids, other dogs, apartments and barking, from the American Kennel Club's own ratings of the Newfoundland. We only answer where the rating is clear.
Yes. The AKC rates the Newfoundland 5 out of 5 for being good with young children and 5 out of 5 for affection with family. Any dog still needs supervision around small children, and children need to learn how to treat a dog.
AKC rating: Good with young children 5/5 · Affectionate with family 5/5 · AKC Newfoundland page
Generally yes. The AKC rates the Newfoundland 5 out of 5 for getting along with other dogs. Early socialisation and careful introductions still matter.
AKC rating: Good with other dogs 5/5 · AKC Newfoundland page
It is a hard fit for most apartments. The AKC rates the Newfoundland 3 out of 5 for energy and 1 out of 5 for barking, and it is a giant breed. It does best with space, a yard or a very active owner.
AKC rating: Energy level 3/5 · Barking level 1/5 · AKC Newfoundland page
No, it is usually a quiet dog. The AKC rates the Newfoundland 1 out of 5 for barking — it tends to bark mainly to alert you.
AKC rating: Barking level 1/5 · AKC Newfoundland page
Not answered here: first-time owners, shedding — the AKC rating sits in the middle or doesn't match our own, so the honest answer is "it depends on the individual dog". Read the full Newfoundland guide.
Which breeds suit kids, apartments, first-time owners →
Breed ratings describe the typical dog. Every dog is an individual, and upbringing, training and socialisation matter as much as breed. Scores from the American Kennel Club, last checked November 3, 2026.
