6 New Year’s Resolutions Every Newfoundland Dog Owner Should Make

As the calendar turns again (seriously, where did 2025 go??) and we all start reflecting on the year ahead, Newfoundland dog owners know one thing for certain—life is simply better with a Newf by your side. These gentle giants bring endless love, slobbery kisses, and enough fur to knit a winter coat or two. But just like we make resolutions to improve our own lives, our dogs benefit when we set goals with their well-being in mind.

Here are six thoughtful (and totally doable) New Year’s resolutions every Newfoundland owner can make to keep their big, beautiful companions happy, healthy, and thriving all year long.

1. Make More Time for Quality Bonding

In our busy lives, it’s easy to get caught up in routines—feed the dog, let them out, walk, repeat. But Newfoundlands thrive on connection and companionship. These gentle giants are deeply emotional, family-oriented dogs who feel happiest when they’re close to their people. This year, make a resolution to spend more intentional, quality time with your Newfoundland.

That doesn’t mean just being in the same room—it means engaging with them in ways that build trust and joy. Try:

• Morning cuddle sessions before the day gets hectic
• Interactive playtime like gentle tug-of-war or hide-and-seek
• Quiet bonding walks, where you focus on being present together, that means no audiobooks or podcasts
• Training sessions that are fun and rewarding rather than just corrective

Newfoundlands are highly intuitive and form powerful bonds with their families. When you invest your time and attention, you’re not just strengthening obedience—you’re nurturing their emotional well-being. A happy Newf isn’t one with endless toys; it’s one who knows they’re deeply loved and understood.

2. Create a Sustainable Grooming Routine

Let’s be honest—keeping up with a Newfoundland’s coat is practically a full-time job. Between the seasonal blowing of their undercoat, drool, and mud-loving tendencies, it’s easy to let grooming slide when life gets busy. But regular grooming isn’t just about appearances—it’s essential for your dog’s comfort and skin health.

Make this the year you commit to a manageable grooming schedule:

• Brush at least two to three times a week to prevent matting and hot spots.
• Trim the fur between paw pads and around the ears to prevent debris buildup.
• Bathe only when necessary, but use a gentle, dog-safe shampoo that won’t strip natural oils.
• Don’t forget ear cleaning—Newfs are prone to infections due to their floppy ears.

If you struggle to stay consistent, set reminders on your phone or schedule a recurring appointment with a professional groomer familiar with giant breeds. Your future self—and your Newf’s skin—will thank you.

3. Build a Training and Enrichment Plan

Even though Newfoundlands are famously gentle, their sheer size makes manners non-negotiable. A 150-pound dog that pulls on the leash or jumps on guests can accidentally cause chaos.

Resolve to make consistent, positive reinforcement training a regular part of your routine this year. Whether your Newfie is a puppy or a seasoned adult, learning should never stop.

Ideas for enrichment and training:

• Reinforce basics: sit, stay, come, and polite leash walking.
• Advanced fun: try water rescue training, carting, or scent games—activities that play into their natural instincts.
• Mental stimulation: puzzle feeders, hide-and-seek, and gentle tug-of-war sessions prevent boredom and anxiety.

Remember, Newfoundlands thrive on gentle leadership and consistency. They want to please you—so make training a joyful way to connect, not a chore.

4. Focus on Joint Care and Weight Management

If there’s one thing nearly every Newfoundland owner worries about, it’s joint health. Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and arthritis can all cause discomfort as these gentle giants age. Prevention truly is the best medicine here.

Start with a resolution to monitor your dog’s body condition regularly. Because Newfs are large and fluffy, extra pounds can sneak up unnoticed. Overweight dogs are at a much higher risk for joint and mobility problems.

Some ways to support joint health:

• Choose a high-protein, species-appropriate diet (avoid cheap kibble loaded with carbs).
• Supplement with omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin (always with your vet’s guidance).
• Keep your dog active but not overworked—long walks, swimming, and controlled play are ideal.
• Use nonslip flooring at home to prevent strain from slipping.

Even small adjustments—like switching to slow, low-impact exercises—can help your Newfoundland move comfortably for years to come.

5. Plan for Breed-Specific Adventures

One of the joys of owning a Newfoundland is their enthusiasm for life. They love to explore, work, and be part of whatever you’re doing. Why not make 2025 the year you give your Newf some new adventures?

Think of this as setting a resolution for shared experiences:

• Visit a lake or beach and let your Newf swim—it’s their natural element.
• Join a local Newfoundland club and participate in events like water rescue trials or carting demos.
• Go hiking on cooler days—Newfs love nature, but keep them out of the heat.
• Volunteer with therapy dog programs if your Newf has a calm, affectionate temperament.

These activities aren’t just fun; they deepen your bond and give your dog purpose. A working Newfoundland is a happy Newfoundland.

6. Commit to Responsible Breed Advocacy

If you love this breed (and let’s face it, who doesn’t?), make 2026 the year you become an advocate for responsible Newfoundland ownership. Sadly, many large breeds end up in rescue because people underestimate the care, space, and cost involved in owning them.

You can help change that narrative.

• Share accurate, educational resources about the breed’s needs on social media.
• Encourage potential owners to buy from ethical preservation breeders who screen for health and temperament.
• Support breed-specific education days and events like National Newfoundland Dog Day (March 25th!).
• Speak up against misinformation or shaming campaigns that discourage responsible breeding and ownership.

Your voice matters. When we work together to educate, we protect the future of this incredible breed.

A Final Word.. Remember to Celebrate Every Moment

At the heart of every resolution is love—the deep, unconditional love we share with our Newfoundland dogs. Whether you’re brushing out a mountain of fur, mopping up drool, or snuggling on the couch, every moment with a Newf is precious.

As you move into a new year, focus on progress, not perfection. Some days you’ll nail the grooming routine; other days, you’ll just be thankful your dog didn’t roll in something unmentionable. What matters most is your dedication to giving your Newfoundland the happiest, healthiest life possible.

Here’s to a year full of belly rubs, wet noses, and snow-covered paw prints.
Happy New Year from all of us at Love Newfoundlands!