Miniature American Shepherd vs Newfoundland
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Newfoundland: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Newfoundland: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Newfoundland: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Newfoundland5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Newfoundland5/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Newfoundland5/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
Newfoundland
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint problems
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Bloat: Gastric complications
SAS: Heart valve condition
Pros & Cons Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
Newfoundland
Pros
Excellent with children
Gentle and patient
Strong swimming abilities
Loyal and protective
Good therapy dogs
Cons
Heavy shedding
Excessive drooling
Expensive to maintain
Need lots of space
Short lifespan
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Newfoundland Fun Fact
Newfoundlands have a special swimming stroke named after them - the 'Newfie paddle'!
Heritage & Purpose
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
Newfoundland
Origin:
Developed in Newfoundland during the 1700s, these powerful dogs served as water rescue dogs and fishing assistants, helping fishermen haul nets and pull carts of fish to market.
Special Considerations
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Newfoundland
Regular grooming essential for coat maintenance. Need controlled exercise to protect developing joints. Must monitor for signs of heat sensitivity and heart issues.