Newfoundland

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Newfoundland

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Intelligent, powerful, friendly, and in a giant size, Newfoundland dogs are working dogs of heavy bone and dignified bearing. They were originally used as working dogs to pull nets from fishermen and haul wood from forests. This gentle and kind dog breed is a good family companion and earns a reputation as a patient “nanny dog” for kids.

Other Names Newfy
Color Black, Brown, Gray, White & Black
Height Males: 26-30 inches. Females: 24-28 inches.
Weight Males: 130-152 pounds. Females: 100-120 pounds.
Life Span 9-10 years
Personality Sweet, Patient, Devoted
Exercise Regular Exercise
Origin
Popularity #40
Groom Needs Weekly
Kids Friendly Yes
Dog Friendly Yes
Watch Dog
Family Dog Yes
Litter Size 4-12

Newfoundland Pictures

Newfoundland Video

Introduction

The Newfoundland dog is affectionately also known as Newfie, or Newf. Even though very sweet-tempered, they are true working dogs. They are large dogs but still, are great swimmers and also strong rescue dogs. People look at them as they walk by because they are so big, and they have beautiful, thick coats too. If you are prepared to care for this great big dog, he makes a great addition to the family. He is famous for being a good companion and has the reputation of being like a “nanny” to the kids. He will require a lot of the right care; good grooming, good food, and quality training – for that, you will get an affectionate and loyal dog. The recognized colors for the Newfoundland are black, gray, brown, and white and black (Landseer). The Newfoundland is a giant breed dog. It reaches a height of around 28 inches and weighs in at about 150 pounds.

Living with Newfoundland

Newfoundland has a thick, double coat that requires brushing a couple of times a week with a steel comb and wire slicker brush to prevent mats and remove dead hair. They do shed, a regular brushing could help reduce the amount of hair floating around your house. And during the shedding period in spring and fall, more frequent brushing is needed. In the summer or a warm climate, the owner is suggested to cut your dog’s coat short to help him stay cool, and bathe your dog about once a month. More importantly, keep this water-loving dog’s ears clean and dry to help prevent ear infections.

Brush the dog’s teeth at least two or three times a week to remove tartar buildup and the bacteria that lurk inside it, and a daily brush is better to keep fresh breathe and prevent gum disease. Trim the nails once a month to prevent painful tears and other problems if your dog doesn’t wear them down.

Muscular Newfoundlands need moderate amounts of exercise at least a half-hour every day to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy outdoor activities and they are great companions on hikes or long walks. And swimming is a good option for Newfoundland dogs to take exercise because they work their muscles without the danger of injuring their joints. 

Besides, Newfoundlands loving pulling a cart, and some of them can even participate in carting and drafting competitions. Also, Newfs could participate in other canine activities and perform well, such as agility, dock jumping, flyball, herding, obedience, rally, and tracking.

Generally, it is recommended to feed a Newfoundland with four to five cups of high-quality dry dog food every day, divided into two meals. More importantly, the food amount should depend on the dog’s weight, size, age, and activity level. There should be fresh and clean water at all times. 

Some dogs are easy to get overweight, so you need to watch their calorie consumption and weight level all the time. Treats may be an important aid in training, but excessive intake can lead to obesity. Also, owners need to distinguish which human food is safe for dogs and which are not. If you have any problems with your dog’s weight or diet, just consult from your veterinarian.

Newfoundlands are prone to the following health conditions: canine hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, ectropion/entropion, hypothyroidism, cataracts, cherry eye, epilepsy, Addison’s disease, cardiac disease, cystinuria…

Major concerns: cystinuria, gastric torsion, SAS, CHD, elbow dysplasia

Minor concerns: cataract, OCD, cruciate ligament rupture, entropion, ectropion, vWD, 

Occasionally seen: vWD, epilepsy

Suggested tests:

Cardiac Exam

Hip Evaluation

Elbow Evaluation

Cystinuria DNA Test

Total Annual Cost: $3538

Cost is estimated for the first year and may vary depending on many factors, such as dog food, health care, leash, collar, licensing, possible fencing, crates, training and obedience classes, dog-walking, grooming, treats, toys, flea, tick, and heart-worm meds, microchips, etc.

Outgoing, intelligent, and eager to please, the Newfoundland is generally easy to be trained. They are also affectionate and trusting and respond well to gentle guidance. As they are sensitive dogs, it is not recommended to use harsh corrections or training methods. 

Daily human contact is totally important for Newfies, early socialization and puppy training classes are recommended and help to ensure that the Newfoundland grows into a well-adjusted, well-mannered companion. 

Besides, they are active and like to be engaged, and they can excel in canine sports and agility courses when the weather is cool.

Leash training is a must with Newfoundland, especially when the dog is fully grown – he is going to weight more than 100 pounds.

History

Where does he come from? Newfoundland of course! There are still some disagreements about where the Newfoundland originates from, and some say the dog has genes that belong to the Great Pyrenees dog, the Mastiff, and the Boarhound. Others say it was Basque fisherman who brought the Newfoundland’s ancestors to the Newfoundland coast. For certainty though, the Newfoundland’s predecessors were brought to the island of Newfoundland by fishermen coming over from Europe – that is why the modern-day Newfoundland originated from this island and has its name. 

Newfoundlands were bred to help the fishermen with all water-related tasks such as water rescue and even pulling in small boats.  

There are some reports that a Newfie even saved Napoleon, keeping him afloat in choppy waters.  

In the early 20th century, a Newfoundland saved 92 people who were on the SS Ethie that got wrecked off of the Northern Peninsula of Newfoundland during a blizzard. The dog fetched a rope and threw it into the turbulent waters so that people could be dragged in by those waiting on the beach. 

A famous Newfoundland called Sable Chief was the famous mascot of the 2nd Battalion of the Newfoundland Regiment in World War I. Can you believe he kept in step when marching? It is said that he would stand up with the opening bars of the National Anthem, remaining at attention until its conclusion.

The breed was first registered with the American Kennel Club in 1879 and the first American Newfoundland champion was titled in 1883.

Helpful Information

Breed Club: NEWFOUNDLAND CLUB OF AMERICA, INC.

Breed Club Link: https://www.ncanewfs.org/

Breed Club Rescue: Newfoundland Rescue Network

Breed Club Rescue Link: https://www.ncarescue.org/