Meet the Newfoundland.
Newfies are often referred to as the “gentle giant” and are well known for their gentle temperament and unwavering loyalty. They are cherished for their calm and patient demeanor, making them exceptional family companions.
This breed’s striking appearance, intelligence, and loving nature make them a standout choice for those seeking a devoted large breed dog to welcome into their homes.
History of the Newfoundland Dog
Newfoundlands were originally bred and used as working dogs on the island of Newfoundland. Their thick double coat, webbed paws, and swimming abilities made them perfect for helping the fishermen of the island pull in their nets.
Newfies were created from a cross between two breeds brought to Newfoundland by different settlers on the island. The Pyranese sheepdogs were brought by French fishermen between 1506 and 1662. Later, the English colonists brought black sporting dogs, likely the curly-coated retriever, that were popular in their home country at the time. [Source]
As time went on, Newfoundlands played an important working role within the communities they lived in. Countless stories have been told of many Newfoundland’s heroic water rescues. Newfs are born water dogs, complete with webbed feet, and the strength to pull a grown man to shore. [Source]
Nowadays, Newfies aren’t used for water rescue in an official capacity in the US. And they haul more as a hobby than as a draft animal. They still can learn to do these things though. The Newfoundland Club of America (NCA) draft and water trails allow Newfoundlands to use their intelligence and sharpen the breed’s natural working instinct. [Source]
Physical Characteristics of Newfoundlands
Newfoundland dogs are a magnificent and imposing breed with distinctive physical characteristics. These gentle giants are large and well-muscled, showcasing a powerful build perfect for working jobs such as water rescue and draft work.
Adult males typically stand between 28 to 30 inches at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller, ranging from 26 to 28 inches. The breed is known for its considerable weight, with males weighing between 130 to 150 pounds and females ranging from 100 to 120 pounds.
Their head is broad, crowned with small, triangular ears that lie close to the head. The expressive eyes are dark and convey a gentle and intelligent demeanor. The muzzle is strong and square, complementing their overall majestic appearance. Newfoundlands boast a distinctive, webbed, and well-padded paw, a trait that enhances their exceptional swimming abilities. The tail is broad at the base and hangs down when at rest but may be raised in excitement.
Coat Composition
Newfies are well known for their distinctive double coat, which is a key feature contributing to their incredible adaptability to cold water and harsh weather conditions.
The outer coat is coarse, long, and straight, providing excellent protection against water and icy conditions. This outer coat is relatively flat-lying and may have a slight wave.
Meanwhile, the dense and soft undercoat offers insulation, trapping warmth and keeping them comfortable in colder climates. [Source]
Coat Colors and Markings
According to the breed standard, “color is secondary to type, structure, and soundness.” The standard also goes on to list that there are only four recognized colors. What the standard fails to say is those are the only four recognized colors for the conformation ring. Newfoundland coats come in eight common colors, black, brown, grey, beige, black and white, brown and white, grey and white, and beige and white.
Black and white Newfoundlands are commonly called Landseers in honor of Sir Edwin Landseer who painted several portraits of the dogs in the 1800s. I think you can call any Newfoundland with a similar white pattern on their coat a Landseer, but that is one of the great debates within the breed and many will say that a brown and white Newfoundland is not a Landseer.
It’s important to note that Landseer Newfoundlands are different than the ECT (European Continental Type) Landseer. ECT Landseers are considered a different breed entirely and there are only a couple of breeders in the US that breed ECT Landseers.
Grooming a Newfoundland Dog
Regular grooming is essential to maintain the Newfoundland’s coat and health. Brushing helps to prevent matting and ensures the dog remains well-insulated in both hot and cold conditions so they can be ready for any outdoor adventure.
Brushing, ideally performed a few times a week, is crucial to manage their dense fur and prevent it from becoming tangled. A slicker brush or a grooming rake is effective in reaching the thick undercoat and removing loose hair. During shedding seasons, which occur twice a year, more frequent brushing may be necessary to control the amount of loose fur.
Bathing a Newfoundland is generally only required when they get dirty or develop a noticeable odor. Use a dog-friendly shampoo and ensure thorough rinsing to prevent skin irritation. As these dogs have a water-resistant outer coat, it’s important not to strip away their natural oils excessively.
Regular attention to their ears is essential to prevent ear infections, and their nails should be trimmed regularly to maintain good paw health.
Given their love for water, Newfoundlands may enjoy a swim to naturally clean their coat, but thorough drying is important afterward.
Due to their size, it is helpful to introduce grooming routines early in their lives. Grooming should always be a pawsitive experience.
Common Health Issues in Newfoundlands
Newfoundland dogs are susceptible to certain health issues that prospective owners should be aware of.
One common concern is hip dysplasia, a hereditary condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit properly into the hip socket, potentially leading to arthritis. Elbow dysplasia is also prevalent, affecting the forelimbs.
These large dogs may also be prone to heart conditions, such as subaortic stenosis, a narrowing of the aorta, and dilated cardiomyopathy.
Additionally, Newfoundland dogs are at risk for a hereditary condition called cystinuria, which can lead to the formation of urinary stones.
Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and appropriate exercise are crucial to maintaining the overall health and well-being of a Newfoundland.
Responsible breeding practices that emphasize health screenings can help mitigate the risk of hereditary issues in the breed, ensuring that Newfoundlands can lead long, happy lives as beloved family companions.
Exercise Needs of a Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are known for their moderate energy levels and gentle temperament. While they may not be as high-energy as some other breeds, they still benefit from regular exercise to maintain their overall health and prevent weight gain.
Daily walks, playtime, and moderate activities are usually sufficient to meet their exercise needs. It’s important to note that their love for water makes swimming an excellent and enjoyable form of exercise for Newfoundlands. Just don’t accidentally teach them to walk on their hind legs in shallow water like I did with Olaf.
Due to their growth rate and potential joint issues, particularly in puppyhood, it’s essential to strike a balance in exercise, avoiding excessive impact on their developing joints.
Mental stimulation is equally important for this intelligent breed, so incorporating training sessions and interactive games into their routine helps keep them mentally engaged.
Training a Newfoundland
Training a Newfoundland dog requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement.
Start training early in their lives to establish good behavior habits. Socialization by exposing them to various people, environments, and other animals is crucial to prevent shyness or timidity.
Given their large size, leash training is essential to ensure they walk calmly without pulling. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, work well with Newfoundlands, as they are eager to please.
Basic obedience commands like sit, stay, and come are fundamental, and training sessions should be short and engaging to keep their interest.
One challenge with Newfoundlands is their potential stubbornness, so consistent and patient training is essential. Due to their intelligence, they may become bored with repetitive training routines, so incorporating variety keeps them engaged.
Newfoundland Temperament
“Sweetness of temperament is the hallmark of the Newfoundland.” [Source] This has earned them the nickname “gentle giants.”
Newfoundlands for their patience and devotion. They are exceptionally good-natured and make excellent family companions.
Newfoundland Compatibility with Children and Other Pets
Newfoundland dogs are well known to be great with children and other pets, making them excellent additions to family households.
Their gentle and patient nature, coupled with a natural protective instinct, often results in a great relationship with children. Newfoundlands are known to be tolerant and loving, making them reliable and trustworthy companions for kids of all ages. Their substantial size may require supervision with very young children to prevent accidental knocks, but their inherent gentleness generally ensures a safe and affectionate interaction.
Additionally, these gentle giants tend to get along well with other pets. Thanks to their friendly disposition. Whether it’s a fellow canine companion or a smaller household animal, Newfoundlands typically exhibit a sociable and accepting attitude, fostering a peaceful coexistence within the family setting.
Famous Newfoundlands in History
There are quite a few famous Newfoundlands throughout history.
My personal favorite is Seaman, the Newfoundland that accompanied Lewis and Clark on their voyage west to the Pacific. Even more fun is that Lewis, Clark, and Seaman passed through my adopted home state of North Dakota. There is even a giant bronze statue dedicated to him in Washburn, ND at Fort Mandan.
Another well-known favorite is Nana from Peter Pan. In the animated cartoon we are all familiar with, Nana is portrayed as a St. Bernard. However, in the original story, she was written as a Newfoundland based on the author’s Landseer Newfie.
Getting a Newfoundland
There are a couple of different options for you if you would like to bring a Newfoundland into your family.
Newfoundland Breeders
When seeking a Newfoundland breeder, it is crucial to prioritize responsible and ethical practices to ensure the health and well-being of your future companion.
A responsible breeder conducts health screenings on their breeding dogs to identify and address potential hereditary issues. They are transparent about the dog’s medical history, provide proper vaccinations, and offer a clean and nurturing environment for their dogs and puppies. Reputable breeders are also dedicated to socializing their puppies, ensuring they are well-adjusted and ready for family life.
Responsible breeders prioritize the lifelong well-being of their dogs and are invaluable partners in the journey to bringing a healthy and happy Newfoundland into your home.
Newfoundland Rescue
Adopting a Newfoundland from a rescue organization can be a rewarding choice. Many Newfies find themselves in need of new homes for various reasons, and rescue organizations provide a valuable service in connecting these gentle giants with loving families.
When considering adoption, it’s essential to understand the dog’s background and any specific needs or challenges they may have. Rescue organizations often conduct thorough assessments of the dog’s health, temperament, and behavior, providing potential adopters with valuable insights.
By adopting a Newfoundland from a rescue, you are providing a second chance for a deserving dog. These adoptions can foster deep connections between families and their newfound furry friends, showcasing the breed’s resilience and capacity for love even in the face of past challenges.