Newfoundland breed information, traits, facts, care, temperament and all you need to know

The Newfoundland is a large breed of dog that is known for its gentle and affectionate nature. Originally bred for water rescue and hauling heavy loads, these dogs are now popular as family pets, therapy dogs, and search and rescue dogs. With their intelligence, loyalty, and playful personality, Newfoundlands make great companions for those who are prepared for the responsibilities of dog ownership.

Origin and history of Newfoundland dog breed

The Newfoundland dog is a large breed of working dog originally from the province of Newfoundland and Labrador in Canada. The breed is known for its strength, size, and ability to work in the water, making it an ideal dog for fishing and rescue operations.

The exact origin of the Newfoundland dog is not known, but it is believed to be a cross between the Labrador Retriever and the Great Pyrenees. Some also believe that the breed may have originated from the indigenous dogs of the area or from mastiffs brought over by the Vikings.

The breed was first used by fishermen in Newfoundland as a working dog to help with tasks such as hauling in fishing nets and rescuing people who had fallen into the water. The breed’s strong swimming abilities made it particularly well-suited for these tasks, and it quickly became a valuable asset to the fishing industry.

In the late 19th century, the breed was introduced to England and quickly became popular among the wealthy as a companion dog. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1886, and it has since become a beloved companion and working dog all over the world.

Today, the Newfoundland dog is known for its gentle and loyal personality, and it remains a popular breed for families and individuals looking for a large, friendly companion. The breed is also still used in rescue operations, and its strong swimming abilities continue to make it an invaluable asset in water-related emergencies.

Characteristics of Newfoundland

The Newfoundland is a large, strong, and powerful breed of dog with several distinctive characteristics that set it apart from other breeds. Some of the most notable characteristics of the Newfoundland dog include:

• Size: Newfoundlands are a large breed, with males typically weighing between 130 and 150 pounds and standing 26 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder. Females are generally slightly smaller, weighing between 100 and 120 pounds and standing 24 to 26 inches tall.
• Coat: The Newfoundland has a thick, water-resistant double coat that is soft and dense, with a slightly wavy texture. The coat is typically black, but it can also be brown, gray, or white and black.
• Temperament: Newfoundlands are known for their gentle and friendly personalities. They are intelligent, loyal, and affectionate, and they are typically good with children and other animals.
• Swimming Ability: Newfoundlands are excellent swimmers and are often used in water rescue operations due to their strength and courage in the water. They have a strong and powerful tail that they use as a rudder when swimming, and their webbed feet help them to swim more efficiently.
• Work Ethic: Newfoundlands are working dogs, and they have a strong work ethic that is evident in their eagerness to please their owners. They are intelligent, trainable, and are often used as therapy dogs or in search-and-rescue operations.

Overall, the Newfoundland dog is a loyal and friendly companion that is known for its strength, size, and ability to work in the water. Its gentle and affectionate personality, combined with its impressive physical abilities, make it an ideal breed for families and individuals who are looking for a large, friendly companion.

Physical structure, weight and dimensions of Newfoundland

The Newfoundland is a large and powerful breed of dog, with a distinctive physical structure that sets it apart from other breeds. Some of the most notable physical characteristics of the Newfoundland include:

• Weight: Newfoundlands are a large breed, with males typically weighing between 130 and 150 pounds and females typically weighing between 100 and 120 pounds.
• Dimensions: Newfoundlands are relatively large dogs, with males standing 26 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder and females standing 24 to 26 inches tall.
• Build: Newfoundlands have a muscular and well-proportioned build, with a broad chest, strong legs, and a deep-set tail that is used as a rudder when swimming. They have a broad head with a wide muzzle and a slightly under-bite, and their ears are small and triangular in shape.
• Coat: Newfoundlands have a thick, water-resistant double coat that is soft and dense, with a slightly wavy texture. The coat is typically black, but it can also be brown, gray, or white and black.
• Movement: Newfoundlands move with a powerful and confident gait, and they are known for their strength and agility. They are often used in water rescue operations, and their strong swimming abilities make them well-suited for these tasks.

Overall, the Newfoundland is a large and powerful breed of dog with a distinctive physical structure that sets it apart from other breeds. Its size, build, and water-resistant coat make it an ideal breed for rescue operations and other water-related activities.

Temperament and behaviour of Newfoundland

The Newfoundland is a gentle, loyal, and affectionate breed of dog, with a well-behaved and friendly temperament. Some of the most notable characteristics of the Newfoundland’s temperament and behavior include:

• Gentle and Affectionate: Newfoundlands are known for their gentle and friendly personalities, and they are often referred to as “gentle giants.” They are affectionate and loyal, and they enjoy spending time with their families and are often very good with children.
• Intelligent and Trainable: Newfoundlands are intelligent dogs, and they are typically easy to train. They have a strong work ethic and are eager to please their owners, making them well-suited to various forms of training and work, such as therapy, search-and-rescue, and water rescue.
• Good with Other Animals: Newfoundlands are typically good with other animals, including dogs, cats, and livestock. They are not typically aggressive towards other animals, but they may exhibit some dominant behavior with other dogs if not properly socialized from an early age.
• Calm and Relaxed: Newfoundlands are known for their calm and relaxed demeanor, and they are typically not high-energy dogs. They enjoy spending time with their families and are often content to simply be near their owners.
• Good Watchdogs: Newfoundlands are protective of their families, and they make good watchdogs. They will bark to alert their owners of potential danger, but they are typically not aggressive towards strangers.

Overall, the Newfoundland is a gentle, loyal, and affectionate breed of dog with a well-behaved and friendly temperament. Its intelligence, trainability, and good nature make it an ideal companion for families and individuals looking for a large, friendly, and loving dog.

Behaviour with Children of Newfoundland

The Newfoundland is known for its gentle and friendly personality, and as a result, it is often a great breed for families with children. Newfoundlands are typically good with children, and they are often referred to as “nanny dogs” due to their patient and gentle nature. Some of the most notable behaviors of Newfoundlands with children include:

• Affectionate: Newfoundlands are affectionate dogs that enjoy spending time with their families, and they are often very good with children. They are known for their gentle and patient nature, and they enjoy being petted and hugged.
• Good Playmates: Newfoundlands are large and strong dogs, but they are also very gentle and playful. They enjoy playing with children, and they are often content to simply be near their owners, even if they are not actively playing.
• Protective: Newfoundlands are protective of their families, and they may bark or growl if they sense that a child is in danger. However, they are typically not aggressive, and they are unlikely to bite or attack anyone, including children.
• Good Companions: Newfoundlands are loyal and affectionate dogs that enjoy spending time with their families. They are often content to simply be near their owners, and they are good companions for children who are looking for a big, friendly, and loving pet.

Overall, the Newfoundland is a great breed for families with children, and its gentle and affectionate personality makes it a good choice for families looking for a large, friendly, and loving companion. However, it’s important to note that with all dogs, it’s always a good idea to supervise interactions between dogs and children, especially when the child is very young.

Behaviour with other Animals

The Newfoundland is generally a good-natured breed that is typically friendly towards other animals. Newfoundlands are often good with other dogs, cats, and livestock, and they are not typically aggressive towards other animals. Some of the most notable behaviors of Newfoundlands with other animals include:

• Good with Other Dogs: Newfoundlands are typically good with other dogs, and they are often friendly and playful with dogs of all sizes. However, they may exhibit some dominant behavior with other dogs if not properly socialized from an early age.
• Good with Cats: Newfoundlands are often good with cats, and they are unlikely to be aggressive towards them. They may chase cats if they are not properly socialized to cats, but they are typically not aggressive.
• Good with Livestock: Newfoundlands are often good with livestock, and they have been used as working dogs on farms and ranches. They are gentle and patient with livestock, and they are unlikely to be aggressive towards them.
• Socialization: Like all dogs, it’s important for Newfoundlands to be properly socialized from an early age in order to ensure that they are friendly and well-behaved with other animals. Socialization should include exposure to a variety of different animals, as well as people and environments.

Overall, the Newfoundland is generally a good-natured breed that is typically friendly towards other animals. Its size and strength may make it a good choice for families with other pets, but it’s important to properly socialize the dog from an early age to ensure that it is well-behaved with other animals.

Common health problems of Newfoundland

Like all breeds of dogs, the Newfoundland is prone to certain health problems. Some of the most common health problems that Newfoundlands may experience include:

• Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition in which the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to arthritis and pain. This is a common health problem in Newfoundlands, and it can be managed with medication and weight management.
• Bloat: Bloat, also known as gastric torsion or twisted stomach, is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition in which the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. This condition can occur in Newfoundlands, and it requires prompt veterinary care.
• Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis (SAS): SAS is a genetic heart condition in which the aorta is narrow, making it difficult for blood to flow from the heart to the rest of the body. This condition can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes, but it can be life-threatening if left untreated.
• Cystinuria: Cystinuria is a genetic condition in which the amino acid cystine accumulates in the kidneys and bladder, leading to the formation of stones. This condition can cause pain, frequent urination, and other symptoms, and it requires veterinary care.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): PRA is a genetic condition in which the cells that detect light in the retina deteriorate, leading to blindness. This condition can occur in Newfoundlands, and it typically progresses over time.

Overall, the Newfoundland is a generally healthy breed of dog, but it is prone to certain health problems, such as hip dysplasia, bloat, SAS, cystinuria, and PRA. Regular veterinary care and genetic testing can help identify and manage these health problems. Additionally, responsible breeding practices can help reduce the frequency and severity of these conditions in the breed.

Cost and expense of Newfoundland

The cost of owning a Newfoundland can vary depending on a number of factors, including the dog’s age, breeder, and location. Some of the expenses associated with owning a Newfoundland include:

• Initial Cost: The cost of a Newfoundland puppy can range from $1,000 to $2,500 or more, depending on the breeder and location. Some of the factors that can affect the cost of a Newfoundland puppy include the dog’s lineage, conformation, and overall quality.
• Food and Supplies: The cost of feeding and caring for a Newfoundland can be significant, as these dogs are large and require a lot of food and supplies. The cost of food and supplies can range from $200 to $500 or more per year, depending on the quality of food and supplies that you purchase.
• Veterinary Care: Regular veterinary care is important for the health and well-being of your Newfoundland, and this can be a significant expense. Some of the costs associated with veterinary care include routine exams, vaccinations, dental cleanings, and emergency care.
• Training and Socialization: Training and socialization are important for the well-being and behavior of your Newfoundland, and this can be an additional cost. Some of the costs associated with training and socialization include classes, books, and equipment.
• Miscellaneous Expenses: Other miscellaneous expenses associated with owning a Newfoundland include grooming supplies, toys and treats, and travel expenses if you plan to participate in shows or other events.

Overall, the cost of owning a Newfoundland can be significant, and it is important to be prepared for the expenses associated with this breed. It is a good idea to consider all of the costs associated with ownership, including initial costs, food and supplies, veterinary care, training and socialization, and miscellaneous expenses, before you decide to purchase a Newfoundland.

Shedding and grooming of Newfoundland

Newfoundlands are heavy shedders and require regular grooming to keep their coat in good condition. Some of the grooming needs of a Newfoundland include:

• Brushing: Newfoundlands have a thick, double coat that requires regular brushing to remove loose hair and prevent matting. It is recommended to brush your Newfoundland at least once a week, and more often during heavy shedding seasons.
• Bathing: Newfoundlands should be bathed as needed, usually about once a month. It is important to use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo to avoid drying out their skin.
• Trimming: Newfoundlands may need occasional trimming around their ears, feet, and tail to maintain their appearance. This is typically done by a professional groomer.
• Nail Trimming: Newfoundlands need to have their nails trimmed regularly to prevent them from becoming too long and painful. This is typically done by the owner or a professional groomer.
• Dental Care: Newfoundlands need regular dental care to keep their teeth and gums healthy. This can include brushing their teeth, giving them dental chews, and scheduling regular cleanings with the veterinarian.
• Ear Cleaning: Newfoundlands have floppy ears that can trap dirt and bacteria, so it’s important to clean their ears regularly. This can be done by wiping their ears with a damp cloth or using a gentle, dog-specific ear cleaner.

Overall, the grooming needs of a Newfoundland are significant, and it is important to be prepared to devote time and resources to maintaining their coat and overall health. Regular grooming not only helps keep your Newfoundland looking good, but it also helps to prevent skin problems and other health issues.

How to take care of Newfoundland

Taking care of a Newfoundland requires a significant amount of time, attention, and resources. Here are some tips for caring for a Newfoundland:

• Exercise: Newfoundlands are large, active dogs that need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. It is recommended to provide them with daily walks, runs, or other forms of physical activity to meet their needs.
• Diet: Newfoundlands are large dogs that require a diet that provides them with enough calories and nutrients to support their growth and development. It is important to feed them a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level, and to avoid overfeeding.
• Training and Socialization: Newfoundlands are intelligent, eager-to-please dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. They also need early and ongoing socialization to prevent behavioral problems and help them become well-adjusted, friendly dogs.
• Grooming: Newfoundlands are heavy shedders and require regular grooming to keep their coat in good condition. This includes brushing, bathing, trimming, nail trimming, and ear cleaning.
• Preventive Healthcare: Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and parasite control are important for the health and well-being of your Newfoundland. It is important to follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for preventive care to keep your dog healthy and protected from preventable diseases.
• Mental Stimulation: Newfoundlands are highly intelligent dogs that need mental stimulation as well as physical exercise. This can include training sessions, puzzle toys, and other activities that challenge their mind and keep them engaged.

Overall, the care of a Newfoundland requires a significant investment of time, energy, and resources. It is important to be prepared for the demands of ownership and to provide your dog with the care and attention they need to thrive.

How to train Newfoundland

Training a Newfoundland can be a rewarding experience, as they are highly intelligent and eager to please their owners. Here are some tips for training a Newfoundland:

• Start Early: It is important to start training your Newfoundland as early as possible to help them develop good habits and behaviors. This includes socialization, basic obedience training, and house training.
• Use Positive Reinforcement: Newfoundlands respond best to positive reinforcement training methods, such as rewarding good behavior with treats, praise, or other rewards. Avoid using physical punishment or negative reinforcement, as this can damage your relationship with your dog and make training more difficult.
• Be Consistent: Consistency is key when training a Newfoundland. Stick to a set training schedule and use the same commands and rewards each time. This helps your dog learn more quickly and reinforces good behavior.
• Make Training Fun: Training should be a positive, enjoyable experience for both you and your Newfoundland. Find activities that your dog enjoys and incorporate training into playtime.
• Reward Good Behaviors: Reinforce good behaviors by immediately rewarding your Newfoundland when they respond correctly to a command or perform a desired behavior. This helps to strengthen their understanding and reinforces the behavior.
• Be Patient: Training a Newfoundland can take time and patience. Be prepared for setbacks and be patient with your dog as they learn. If training becomes frustrating, take a break and come back to it later.

Overall, training a Newfoundland requires consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement. With the right approach, you can help your dog develop good habits and behaviors and build a strong bond with them. It is important to work with a professional trainer if you have concerns or need help with specific training issues.

Why should you own a Newfoundland dog breed?

Owning a Newfoundland can be a rewarding experience for those who are prepared for the responsibilities and challenges of dog ownership. Here are some reasons why you might consider owning a Newfoundland:

• Loyal and Affectionate: Newfoundlands are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature. They form strong bonds with their owners and are often described as gentle giants.
• Good with Children: Newfoundlands are generally good with children and make great family pets. They are patient and protective, making them a good choice for families with kids.
• Active and Playful: Newfoundlands are active and playful dogs that enjoy physical activity and playtime. They make great hiking and swimming companions, and enjoy playing fetch, tug-of-war, and other games.
• Highly Intelligent: Newfoundlands are highly intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. This makes them easy to train and an ideal choice for first-time dog owners.
• Protective: Newfoundlands are protective dogs that have a strong instinct to guard their owners and families. They are naturally cautious around strangers, but warm up quickly once they get to know someone.
• Good Swimmers: Newfoundlands were originally bred for water rescue, and many still have a strong love for the water. They are excellent swimmers and enjoy playing and swimming in the water.
• Good for Therapy: Newfoundlands are known for their calm and gentle nature, making them suitable for therapy work. They are often used in therapy programs to provide comfort and support to people in need.

Overall, owning a Newfoundland can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for those who are prepared for the responsibilities and challenges of dog ownership. These dogs make great family pets, companions, and therapy dogs, and bring joy and happiness to those who own them.

Challenges of owning a Newfoundland

Owning a Newfoundland can be a wonderful experience, but it’s important to be aware of the challenges that come with it as well. Here are some of the challenges of owning a Newfoundland:

• Size and Strength: Newfoundlands are large, powerful dogs that require space to move and play. They can be difficult to handle and control, especially for those who are not used to handling large breeds.
• Exercise Requirements: Newfoundlands are active dogs that require daily exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. They need plenty of space to run and play, and owners must be prepared to provide this.
• Grooming: Newfoundlands have a thick, double coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. They shed heavily twice a year, and owners must be prepared to deal with a significant amount of shedding.
• Training: Newfoundlands are highly intelligent dogs, but they can also be stubborn and difficult to train. They require consistent, patient training to develop good habits and behaviors, and owners must be prepared to invest time and effort into their training.
• Health Concerns: Newfoundlands are prone to certain health problems, including hip dysplasia, bloat, and heart conditions. Owners must be prepared to provide regular veterinary care and attention to maintain their dog’s health.
• Cost: Owning a Newfoundland can be expensive, especially when it comes to veterinary care and grooming. Owners must be prepared to invest in their dog’s health and well-being, and budget accordingly.
• Space Requirements: Newfoundlands are large dogs that require plenty of space to move and play. Owners must have a large home and yard, or be prepared to provide frequent opportunities for exercise and play.

Owning a Newfoundland can be a wonderful experience, but it’s important to be aware of the challenges and responsibilities involved. By being prepared for these challenges, you can ensure that you and your Newfoundland have a happy and fulfilling life together.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, owning a Newfoundland can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for those who are prepared for the responsibilities and challenges involved. These dogs are loyal, affectionate, and good with children, and make great family pets, therapy dogs, and search and rescue dogs. However, it’s important to be aware of the challenges of owning a Newfoundland, including their size and strength, exercise requirements, grooming needs, and health concerns. By being prepared for these challenges and providing your Newfoundland with proper care, attention, and training, you can ensure a happy and fulfilling life for both you and your furry companion.