Newfoundland

Appearance

Newfoundland
Newfoundland Quick Summary
Also Known As
OriginCanada
SizeLarge
Height (at withers)26-33in (66-84cm)
Weight100-150lbs (45-68kg)
Hair Colour(s)Black, white
Lifespan8-10 years
Energy LevelLow
Litter size8-10
SheddingHigh
GroomingMedium
Barking TendencyMedium
Exercise requirementsLow
Ease of trainingMedium
Suitability for kidsMedium
Animal compatabilityHigh
Aggression levelsLow
Distress if leftMedium

The Newfoundland is a giant but elegant looking dog with a with a burly, robust build. The body is heavily boned with a broad and muscular level back, a broad and deep chest, straight front legs with webbed feet, and a low hanging tail. The head is massive, with a short, broad muzzle, a dark nose, small dark eyes and small hanging ears. The water resistant coat is flat, coarse and dense with an oily texture, and the colouring tends to be black or white with black patches.

Temperament

Newfoundlands are calm and sweet-natured dogs with endearing and pleasant temperaments. Laidback and extremely friendly, these large and tolerant creatures carry themselves with dignity and both require and offer plenty of love and affection and make devoted family pets. Although they are intelligent and responsive they can sometimes be a little hard to train, but as they are eager to please they are still suitable for novice owners as well as the more experienced. Although a very friendly and sociable breed, some can be dominant or timid and so early socialisation is required. Newfoundlands get along well with children, but are not suitable for small kids simply due to their large size. They also get along with other pets, although some can be aggressive towards same sex dogs. These sweet-natured dogs will also be welcoming to strangers, but they still make effective watchdogs simply because of their size and intimidating bark, and they are perfectly capable of protecting their owners.

History & Skills

Newfoundlands originate from Newfoundland in Canada, where they were developed to work with fishermen for a range of tasks, including pulling in nets, recovering items that fell into the water, taking boat harnesses to shore, and even saving drowning or stranded victims and delivering lifelines during shipwreck emergencies. These useful dogs were also used for pulling timber and mail sleds, carrying packaged goods, and delivering milk. These days they retain their rescue skills and also make popular household pets.

Breed Specific Ailments

Newfoundlands tend to live between 8-10 years, and some of the health problems associated with this breed includes bloat, SAS, entropion, thyroid problems, ectropion, OCD, Hip dysplasia, sub-aortic stenosis, allergies, skin conditions, and heatstroke in humid or hot conditions. These dogs are prone to weight gain.

Grooming

Newfoundlands are heavy shedders that also shed more heavily on a seasonal basis, and so are not suitable choices for those suffering from allergies. Their grooming requirements are average and their coat will need brushing a few times a week, and perhaps daily during periods of heavier shedding. In order to maintain shine in the coat they should not be bathed unless necessary, and dry shampoo can be used. These dogs drool a lot, which may require cleaning up.

Exercise & Environment

Newfoundlands are not suitable for small homes because of their great size, and they need plenty of space. They tend to be inactive while indoors but will need a daily walk and the occasional swim. Access to a yard or garden will be greatly beneficial but these dogs are sensitive to heat and need providing with shade and plenty of water.