Landseer
A giant black-and-white water-rescue dog, recognised as a breed distinct from the Newfoundland in continental Europe. Gentle, calm and devoted, a superb but very large family companion.
Overview
A giant black-and-white water-rescue dog, recognised as a breed distinct from the Newfoundland in continental Europe. Gentle, calm and devoted, a superb but very large family companion.
Good to know — a Landseer is needs plenty of space and manageable for committed beginners. Every dog is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
Temperament & family fit
In general, a Landseer is excellent with children of all ages and sociable with other dogs. They tend to be a quiet, and as a guide they are manageable for committed beginners. Early socialisation, reward-based training and supervision around young children make all the difference.
- Families with children of all ages
- Owners ready for consistent training
- Active homes with plenty of space
Exercise needs
A healthy adult Landseer typically needs around 30 minutes (gentle, broken into shorter walks) a day (roughly 30–45 minutes), split across walks, play and a little training. A good sniffy walk, some play and a little training usually keeps them content. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need adjusted amounts — check with your vet.
Grooming & coat
Coat upkeep is regular brushing and shedding is high. Brush regularly (a few times a week) to keep the coat healthy and remove loose hair.
- Brush several times a week
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding considerations
Like any dog, a Landseer should get most of its nutrition from a complete, balanced dog food suited to its size and life stage. Portions scale with body weight and activity, so a giant breed will eat a fair amount compared with other breeds — follow the food’s feeding guide and your vet’s advice, and weigh portions to avoid creeping weight gain. Treats should make up no more than about 10% of daily calories.
Pros & cons
The good bits
- Gentle, patient and superb with children
- Calm, devoted family guardian
Things to consider
- Giant size, drooling and heavy seasonal shedding
- Shorter lifespan and high feeding costs
Similar breeds
Bernese Mountain Dog
A gentle giant — calm, affectionate and wonderful with families, if you have the space and a big heart.
View breed guide →
Great Dane
A truly enormous yet gentle and affectionate "gentle giant" — surprisingly calm for its size.
View breed guide →
Saint Bernard
The classic gentle giant — calm, patient and wonderful with children, though it drools, sheds and lives a shorter giant-breed life.
View breed guide →
Irish Wolfhound
The tallest of all breeds — a gentle, calm and good-natured sighthound that is, sadly, one of the shortest-lived.
View breed guide →Frequently asked questions
Are Landseers good with children?
Excellent with children of all ages. As a general guide, Landseers tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.
How much exercise does a Landseer need?
As a healthy adult, a typical Landseer needs around 30 minutes (gentle, broken into shorter walks) of exercise a day (30–45 minutes), split across walks plus play. A good sniffy walk plus some play and training usually keeps them happy. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.
Do Landseers shed a lot?
High shedding. Coat upkeep is regular brushing — brush regularly to keep the coat in good condition.
Are Landseers easy to train and good for first-time owners?
Manageable for committed beginners. Landseers are best for owners ready to commit to consistent training and plenty of activity. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.
Do Landseers bark a lot?
Quiet. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.
Are Landseers good with other dogs?
Sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.
Do Landseers suit flats or smaller homes?
Needs plenty of space. A Landseer really needs plenty of space and a lot of daily activity — not ideal for a small flat.
Happier, healthier pets — in your inbox.
Breed care tips, seasonal advice and first access to new arrivals. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.