Newfoundland
Summary
The Newfoundland is one of the largest and gentlest dogs in the world, originating from the Canadian island of the same name. Bred by fishermen to help with nets, pull carts, and rescue shipwreck survivors, it develops a natural affinity with water that is almost unique among breeds. Its webbed feet, waterproof coat, and enormous muscular strength make it one of the best water rescue dogs in existence.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Giant
- Height (male)
- 71 cm
- Height (female)
- 66 cm
- Weight (male)
- 60–70 kg
- Weight (female)
- 45–55 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 9–10 years
- Coat
- Double, dense, waterproof; outer coat coarse and straight; undercoat dense and soft
- Common Colors
- Black, brown, grey; the black-and-white pattern is called Landseer (European continental type — see separate breed)
Temperament & Personality
The Newfoundland is often described as the "perfect nanny", a reference to the book Peter Pan, where J.M. Barrie portrayed a Newfoundland (Nana) as the guardian dog of the Darling children. Indeed, the breed has almost unlimited patience with children, an innate protective instinct, and a sweetness of temperament that is hard to find in any other large breed. It loves cold weather and water.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- Moderate
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 60–90 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- High
- Shedding
- Heavy
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 6–8 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)
- Gastric dilatation/torsion
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism problems
- Osteosarcoma
- Recommended Health Tests
- Cardiac examination
- Hip and elbow X-rays
- Thyroid evaluation
Compatibility
- With Children
- Excellent
- With Other Dogs
- Excellent
- With Cats
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Acceptable
