The Newfoundland dog, often lovingly called the “Newfie,” is a large and noble breed from Canada. You might spot one of these gorgeous dogs by their fluffy coat and impressive size. Newfoundlands have a rich history and are renowned for their exceptional water rescue abilities.
One of the defining characteristics of Newfoundlands is their webbed feet. Combined with their powerful swimming strokes, these lovable dogs make excellent swimmers. They possess a natural instinct and ability to rescue people in water, making them a popular choice for lifeguarding and water rescue operations. Their large lung capacity and muscular build allow them to stay afloat and assist in saving lives with ease.
Newfoundlands are loved for their gentle, patient, and highly affectionate nature. Renowned for devotion towards their families, Newfies are especially protective of children. Their friendly and sociable personalities make them excellent companions and therapy dogs. In addition to their water rescue abilities, Newfies are also versatile working dogs. Historically, Newfoundlands worked as draft animals, pulling carts and sleds, as well as assisting fishermen by hauling nets or carrying supplies. Their strength, endurance, and willingness to work have made them valuable partners in various tasks.
Quick Facts
- Origin: Newfoundland, Canada
- Lifespan: 10-12 years
- Height: 25-28 inches
- Weight: 100-150 pounds
- Temperament: Gentle, patient, and loyal
- Grooming: Moderate
- Exercise: Low to moderate
- Training: Early and consistent training is recommended
- Health: Relatively healthy, but can be prone to some health problems, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia
- Suitability: Families with children, active adults, and experienced dog owners
- The most famous Newfoundland in English literature is Nana, the loving and protective nursemaid in J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan.
- Boatswain was the faithful companion of the famous poet Lord Byron. The beloved pup was also the furry muse for Byron’s Epitaph To A Dog.
The Newfoundland dog is a magnificent breed with a storied history. Their remarkable swimming and rescue abilities, combined with their gentle temperament and loyalty, have made them cherished companions and working partners. Whether in the water or on land, this beloved breed continues to captivate the hearts of dog lovers around the world.
Newfoundland Dog Breed Pictures
Adaptability
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Adapts Well To Apartment Living
Looking for the best dog for your apartment? Contrary to popular belief, the suitability of dogs who adapt well to apartment living goes beyond its size. Apartment dwellers have a myriad of dog breeds to choose from as potential companions, with various factors to consider. Some large breeds can adapt well to apartment living and have lower activity levels. Others may require more space and possess higher energy levels. On the other hand, certain small dog breeds with abundant energy can still find contentment with indoor playtime or brisk walks.
However, when selecting a dog that adapts well apartments, it is essential to prioritize your neighbors. Opting for a pet that doesn’t excessively bark and behaves politely when encountering others in shared spaces like is crucial for maintaining a harmonious apartment environment.
In high-rise settings, it’s worth noting that numerous small dogs may exhibit a propensity for high energy and frequent barking. This makes them less suitable for apartment living. Therefore, desirable qualities in an apartment dog encompass being quiet, low-energy, and displaying polite behavior towards other residents.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Dog For An Apartment
When considering dogs that adapt well to apartments, size alone should not be the sole determinant. Apartment dwellers have a wealth of dog breeds to choose from as potential furry companions. It’s important to remember that the size of your living space is just one factor to consider. While some larger breeds can adapt well to apartment living, with lower, others may require more space and have higher energy levels, making them less suitable for smaller apartments. Conversely, certain small dog breeds with higher energy levels can still thrive in apartments, finding contentment through indoor playtime or brisk walks. However, it is crucial to consider your neighbors’ comfort when selecting a dog. Opt for a pet that doesn’t bark excessively and behaves politely when interacting with others in shared spaces.
Therefore, it’s important to prioritize qualities such as being quiet, low-energy, calm indoors, and exhibiting good manners when living in close proximity to other residents. By considering these factors, you can find a dog that will adapt well to apartment living and create a harmonious living environment for everyone involved.
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Good For Novice Owners
Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They’re also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.
Dogs who are highly sensitive, independent thinking, or assertive may be harder for a first-time dog parent to manage. You’ll get your best match if you take your dog-owning experience into account as you choose your new pooch.
If you’re new to dog parenting, take a look at 101 Dog Tricks and read up on how to train your dog!
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Sensitivity Level
Some dogs will let a stern reprimand roll off their backs, while others take even a dirty look to heart. Low-sensitivity dogs, also called “easygoing,” “tolerant,” “resilient,” and even “thick-skinned,” can better handle a noisy, chaotic household, a louder or more assertive owner, and an inconsistent or variable routine. Do you have young kids, throw lots of dinner parties, play in a garage band, or lead a hectic life? Go with a low-sensitivity dog.
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Tolerates Being Alone
Some breeds bond very closely with their family and are more prone to worry or even panic when left alone by their owner. An anxious dog can be very destructive–barking, whining, chewing, and otherwise causing mayhem. These breeds do best when a family member is home during the day or if you can take the dog to work.
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Tolerates Cold Weather
Breeds with very short coats and little or no undercoat or body fat, such as Greyhounds, are vulnerable to the cold. Dogs with a low cold tolerance need to live inside in cool climates and should have a jacket or sweater for chilly walks. You can find a great jacket for your dog here!
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Tolerates Hot Weather
Dogs with thick, double coats are more vulnerable to overheating. So are breeds with short noses, like Bulldogs or Pugs, since they can’t pant as well to cool themselves off. If you want a heat-sensitive breed, your dog will need to stay indoors with you on warm or humid days, and you’ll need to be extra cautious about exercising your dog in the heat.
All-around friendliness
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Affectionate With Family
When it comes to unconditional love and unwavering loyalty, few animals can rival the affectionate nature of dogs. These remarkable creatures have earned their reputation as man’s best friend, and many breeds are particularly renowned for their love and devotion to their families. With their warm hearts and wagging tails, affectionate family dogs enrich the lives of their owners in countless ways.
One such breed known for its affectionate demeanor is the Golden Retriever. With their gentle temperament and friendly disposition, Golden Retrievers form deep bonds with their families. They eagerly participate in family activities, whether it’s a game of fetch in the yard or cuddling on the couch during a movie night. Their expressive eyes and ever-wagging tails are a testament to the joy they feel in the presence of their loved ones.
Another family-favorite breed is the Labrador Retriever. Renowned for their playful and patient nature, Labradors are excellent companions for children and adults alike. They readily engage in playtime with the kids, showcasing their boundless energy and enthusiasm. But when the day winds down, they seamlessly transition into loving and gentle cuddle buddies, comforting their family members with their warm presence.
Beyond specific breeds, mixed-breed dogs also have a special place in the hearts of families seeking affectionate companions. The shelter dogs, in particular, form deep connections with their adoptive families. They seem to understand the second chance they’ve been given and repay it with endless love and gratitude.
How To Know If A Dog Is Good With Families
The affectionate nature of family dogs extends beyond play and cuddles. Dogs have a remarkable ability to sense their owner’s emotions, offering comfort and support during difficult times. Whether it’s a wagging tail after a long day at work or a sympathetic nuzzle during moments of sadness, they prove time and again that they are attuned to their family’s needs.
It is important to note that not all dogs of the same breed will be equally affectionate. Some dogs may be more independent or aloof, while others may be more clingy or demanding of attention. The best way to find out how affectionate a dog is is to meet them in person and interact with them.
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Kid-Friendly
Being gentle with children, sturdy enough to handle the heavy-handed pets and hugs they can dish out, and having a blasé attitude toward running, screaming children are all traits that make a kid-friendly dog. You may be surprised by who’s on that list: Fierce-looking Boxers are considered good with children, as are American Staffordshire Terriers (which are considered Pit Bulls). Small, delicate, and potentially snappy dogs such as Chihuahuas aren’t always so family-friendly.
**All dogs are individuals. Our ratings are generalizations, and they’re not a guarantee of how any breed or individual dog will behave. Dogs from any breed can be good with children based on their past experiences, training on how to get along with kids, and personality. No matter what the breed or breed type, all dogs have strong jaws, sharp pointy teeth, and may bite in stressful circumstances. Young children and dogs of any breed should always be supervised by an adult and never left alone together, period.
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Dog Friendly
Friendliness toward dogs and friendliness toward humans are two completely different things. Some dogs may attack or try to dominate other dogs, even if they’re love-bugs with people; others would rather play than fight; and some will turn tail and run. Breed isn’t the only factor. Dogs who lived with their littermates and mother until at least six to eight weeks of age and who spent lots of time playing with other dogs during puppyhood, are more likely to have good canine social skills.
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Friendly Toward Strangers
Stranger-friendly dogs will greet guests with wagging tails and nuzzles; others are shy, indifferent, or even aggressive. However, no matter what the breed, a dog who was socialized and exposed to lots of different types, ages, sizes, and shapes of people as a puppy will respond better to strangers as an adult. Remember that even friendly dogs should stay on a good, strong leash like this one in public!
Health And Grooming Needs
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Amount Of Shedding
If you’re going to share your home with a dog, you’ll need to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothes and in your house. However, shedding does vary greatly among the breeds. Some dogs shed year-round, some “blow” seasonally, some do both, and some shed hardly at all. If you’re a neatnik, you’ll need to either pick a low-shedding breed or relax your standards. To help keep your home a little cleaner, you can find a great de-shedding tool here!
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Drooling Potential
Drool-prone dogs may drape ropes of slobber on your arm and leave big, wet spots on your clothes when they come over to say hello. If you’ve got a laid-back attitude toward slobber, fine; but if you’re a neatnik, you may want to choose a dog who rates low in the drool department.
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Easy To Groom
Some breeds are brush-and-go dogs; others require regular bathing, clipping, and other grooming just to stay clean and healthy. Consider whether you have the time and patience for a dog who needs a lot of grooming, or the money to pay someone else to do it.
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General Health
Due to poor breeding practices, some breeds are prone to certain genetic health problems, such as hip dysplasia. This doesn’t mean that every dog of that breed will develop those diseases; it just means that they’re at an increased risk.
If you’re adopting a puppy, it’s a good idea to find out which genetic illnesses are common to the breed you’re interested in. You may also want to ask if your shelter or rescue has information about the physical health of your potential pup’s parents and other relatives.
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Potential For Weight Gain
Some breeds have hearty appetites and tend to put on weight easily. As in humans, being overweight can cause health problems in dogs. If you pick a breed that’s prone to packing on pounds, you’ll need to limit treats, make sure they get enough exercise, and measure out their daily food servings into regular meals rather than leaving food out all the time.
Ask your vet about your dog’s diet and what they recommend for feeding your pooch to keep them at a healthy weight. Weight gain can lead to other health issues or worsen problems like arthritis.
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Size
Get ready to meet the giants of the doggy world! Large dog breeds aren’t just big balls of fluff, they’re like loving, oversized teddy bears on a mission to steal your heart. Need some convincing? Let’s dive into the awesome benefits of owning one!
First things first, these pooches are a living security system! With their impressive size and thunderous barks, they’ll have any would-be intruder running for the hills. Talk about peace of mind! Plus, who needs an alarm when you’ve got a furry giant protecting your castle?
But that’s not all. Large dog breeds are all about loyalty and devotion. They’ll stick by your side through thick and thin, becoming your most dedicated bestie. Their love knows no bounds! When you have a giant fluffball showing you unconditional love, you’ll feel like the luckiest human on the planet.
Now, let’s talk about their talents. These big fellas are the ultimate working partners. With brains and brawn, they’re up for any challenge. From search and rescue missions to lending a helping paw to those in need, these dogs are superheroes in fur coats. They’ll make you proud every step of the way!
Don’t let their size fool you—these gentle giants have hearts as big as their paws. They’re incredible with kids and other pets, spreading their love like confetti. Their patience and kindness make them perfect family pets, ensuring harmony in your household.
Oh, and get ready to break a sweat! These dogs are fitness enthusiasts, and they’ll keep you on your toes. Daily walks, jogs, and play sessions will not only keep them happy and healthy but will also give you a reason to ditch the couch and join in on the fun. It’s a win-win situation!
So, if you’re ready for a dose of big love, go ahead and consider a large dog breed. They’re the best wing-dog you could ever ask for, ready to make your life a thousand times more exciting, loving, and downright awesome! Get ready for the big adventure of a lifetime!
Trainability
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Easy To Train
Easy-to-train dogs are more adept at forming an association between a prompt (such as the word “sit”), an action (sitting), and a consequence (getting a treat) very quickly. Other dogs need more time, patience, and repetition during training.
Many breeds are intelligent but approach training with a “What’s in it for me?” attitude, in which case you’ll need to use rewards and games to teach them to want to comply with your requests.
Related:
10 Fun, Impressive Tricks You Can Teach Any Dog
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Intelligence
Dogs who were bred for jobs that require decision making, intelligence, and concentration, such as herding livestock, need to exercise their brains, just as dogs who were bred to run all day need to exercise their bodies. If they don’t get the mental stimulation they need, they’ll make their own work–usually with projects you won’t like, such as digging and chewing. Obedience training and interactive dog toys are good ways to give a dog a brain workout, as are dog sports and careers, such as agility and search and rescue.
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Potential For Mouthiness
Common in most breeds during puppyhood and in Retriever breeds at all ages, mouthiness means a tendency to nip, chew, and play-bite (a soft, fairly painless bite that doesn’t puncture the skin). Mouthy dogs are more likely to use their mouths to hold or “herd” their human family members, and they need training to learn that it’s fine to gnaw on chew toys, but not on people. Mouthy breeds tend to really enjoy a game of fetch, as well as a good chew on a toy that’s been stuffed with kibble and treats.
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Prey Drive
Dogs with a high prey drive have an instinctive desire to stalk, capture, and prey upon potential food sources. Dogs who were bred to hunt, such as Terriers, have an inborn desire to chase — and sometimes kill — other animals. Anything whizzing by — such as cats, squirrels, and perhaps even cars — can trigger that instinct.
How to address a high prey drive
Off-leash adventures are too great a temptation for pups who will wander and hunt. Dogs who like to chase need to be leashed. And, even on a leash, you may experience your dog pulling on the leash to reach rodents or birds in their sight. Otherwise, these pups should be kept in a fenced area when outdoors. If your pup has a high prey drive, you’ll need a high, secure fence in your yard.
These breeds generally aren’t a good fit for homes with smaller pets that can look like prey, such as cats, hamsters, or small dogs. Breeds that were originally used for bird hunting, on the other hand, generally won’t chase, but you’ll probably have a hard time getting their attention when there are birds flying by.
Other behavioral concerns
Observing your dog’s prey drive, which is instinctual and biologically-rooted, is not the same as observing aggression. Much aggression is born of fear and anxiety, especially in the case of dog aggression toward humans.
The tendency to wander, even into oncoming traffic, can produce diasterious results for pups with predatory instincts. It can also lead to pups being bitten by snakes or attacked by other wild animals they may pursue while on the hunt.
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Tendency To Bark Or Howl
Some breeds sound off more often than others. When choosing a breed, think about how often the dog vocalizes. Learn more about breeds with a tendency to bark or howl.
If you’re considering a hound, would you find their trademark howls musical or maddening? If you’re considering a watchdog, will a city full of suspicious “strangers” put your pup on permanent alert? Will the local wildlife literally drive your dog wild? Do you live in housing with noise restrictions? Do you have neighbors nearby? Then you may wish to choose a quieter dog.
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Wanderlust Potential
Some breeds are more free-spirited than others. Nordic dogs such as Siberian Huskies were bred to range long distances, and given the chance, they’ll take off after anything that catches their interest. And many hounds simply must follow their noses–or that bunny that just ran across the path–even if it means leaving you behind.
Exercise needs
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Energy Level
High-energy dogs are always ready and waiting for action. Originally bred to perform a canine job of some sort, such as retrieving game for hunters or herding livestock, they have the stamina to put in a full workday. They need a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation, and they’re more likely to spend time jumping, playing, and investigating any new sights and smells.
Low-energy dogs are the canine equivalent of a couch potato, content to doze the day away. When picking a breed, consider your own activity level and lifestyle, and think about whether you’ll find a frisky, energetic dog invigorating or annoying.
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Intensity
A vigorous dog may or may not have high energy, but everything they do, they do with vigor: they strain on the leash (until you train them not to), try to plow through obstacles, and even eats and drinks with great big gulps. These dynamos need lots of training to learn good manners, and may not be the best fit for a home with young kids or someone who’s elderly or frail. A low-vigor dog, on the other hand, has a more subdued approach to life.
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Exercise Needs
Some breeds do fine with a slow evening stroll around the block. Others need daily, vigorous exercise, especially those that were originally bred for physically demanding jobs, like herding or hunting.
Without enough exercise, these breeds may put on weight and vent their pent-up energy in ways you don’t like, such as barking, chewing, and digging. Breeds that need a lot of exercise are good for outdoorsy, active people, or those interested in training their dog to compete in a high-energy dog sport, such as agility.
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Potential For Playfulness
Some dogs are perpetual puppies — always begging for a game — while others are more serious and sedate. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog.
Newfoundland Overview
The Newfoundland is a sweet and gentle giant known for its love of children and its heroic nature. This breed gained recognition through the fictional character Nana, the Darling family’s nanny dog in J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan. While the portrayal of Nana as a constant babysitter may stretch reality, the Newfoundland’s affectionate and protective nature towards children is accurate.
Originating from Newfoundland, Canada, the same birthplace as the Labrador Retriever, Newfoundlands share many characteristics with their popular cousin. They are eager to please, intelligent, hardworking, friendly, adaptable, and versatile. Weighing around 100 pounds, Newfoundlands are considered a giant breed and require daily exercise to stay in shape.
One thing to note is that Newfoundlands are not the best choice for dog owners concerned with cleanliness, as their long, heavy coats attract dirt and debris. Regular grooming is necessary to minimize the mess. Additionally, they are known to drool—a lot. However, their trainability is exceptional, and they are quick learners. Early training is recommended due to their rapid growth and potential difficulty in managing a 100-pound dog. Fortunatey, they are not too energetic and often prefer lounging on the couch.
Newfoundlands have a natural affinity for water and possess a strong swimming ability. This inherent trait has led to numerous accounts of these dogs rescuing people from cold waters, such as during shipwrecks or saving children from icy depths. Their bravery and heroism are well-documented.
Whether as a working dog or a loyal companion, the Newfoundland will undoubtedly capture your heart. Their innate qualities, combined with their size and strength, make them a remarkable breed worth admiring and cherishing.
Newfoundland Highlights
The Newfoundland is a large dog that requires space and would be happier in a roomier environment rather than a small apartment. While they have a mellow demeanor, they still need regular exercise and mental stimulation. Engaging in training and dog sports can be an ideal way to channel their working abilities.
If you’re not fond of dog slobber, the Newfoundland may not be the best choice for you. This breed is known for drooling excessively.
Maintaining the Newfoundland’s thick coat in good condition necessitates regular grooming. You can choose to groom them yourself, although it can be time-consuming, or opt for a professional groomer, which may incur additional costs.
The Newfoundland thrives in cooler climates, although they can adapt to warmer climates as well. To protect them from heat stroke, it’s important to ensure they have access to air conditioning or fans during hot weather.
Avoid purchasing puppies from irresponsible breeders, puppy mills, or pet stores. Instead, consider adopting from a shelter, rescue group, or reputable breeder who conducts genetic testing on their breeding dogs to ensure they are free from hereditary diseases and possess stable temperaments.
Newfoundland History
The Newfoundland breed hails from the eponymous Canadian province and has a historical association with the local fishermen. While the exact origins of the Newfoundland are unclear, several theories have been proposed. One theory suggests that the breed is a result of crossbreeding between the Tibetan Mastiff and the now-extinct American Black Wolf. Another theory suggests that Vikings left their dogs behind during their exploration of the New World in the year 1000 A.D., and these dogs interbred with native wolves in Eastern Canada. A third theory proposes that the Newfoundland is the product of crossbreeding between various European breeds, such as the Pyrenean Sheep Dogs, Mastiffs, and Portuguese Water Dogs, during the 15th and 16th centuries. However, these theories are difficult to validate, as is often the case with breed origins.
What is known is that in the late 18th century, English botanist Sir Joseph Banks acquired several Newfoundlands, and it was in 1775 that George Cartwright named them. The breed’s existence faced a threat until the late 1800s when Professor Albert Heim of Switzerland identified and described the Newfoundland, contributing to its preservation. In the 1780s, the breed faced near extinction due to government-imposed restrictions that mandated Canadian families to pay taxes on the one dog they were allowed to keep.
Sir Edwin Landseer, an artist known for including Newfoundlands in his paintings, played a role in the breed’s resurgence. The Landseer variety of the Newfoundland, characterized by its white and black coat, was named in his honor. The breed’s future was further solidified when the Honorable Harold MacPherson, governor of Newfoundland, chose the Newfoundland as his preferred breed.
In 1860, the first Newfoundland was exhibited in England. The breed was officially registered with the American Kennel Club in 1879, and by 1883, the first American Newfoundland champion had earned its title.
Newfoundland Size
Physically, Newfoundland dogs are impressive in size and stature. Males can reach a height of 28 inches (71 cm) at the shoulder and weigh up to 150 pounds (68 kg), while females are slightly smaller. Their strong, muscular bodies are covered in a dense, water-resistant double coat that comes in various colors, including black, brown, gray, and Landseer (black and white).
Newfoundland Personality
The Newfoundland possesses a sweet and lovable disposition, reminiscent of a big, cuddly Teddy Bear. This breed is known for its affection towards children, high intelligence, and a strong desire to please its family. They thrive when in the company of their loved ones and should not be left alone for extended periods or isolated in the backyard or kennel.
Similar to all dogs, early socialization is crucial for Newfoundlands. Exposing them to various people, environments, sounds, and experiences from a young age helps shape them into well-rounded and confident dogs. Enrolling a Newfoundland puppy in a puppy kindergarten class is an excellent way to kickstart their socialization journey. Regularly inviting visitors, taking them to bustling parks, dog-friendly stores, and leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also aid in honing their social skills.
Newfoundland Health
The Newfoundland breed is susceptible to certain health conditions. While not all Newfoundlands will develop these diseases, it is important to be aware of them if you are considering this breed. Here are some of the health conditions commonly associated with Newfoundlands:
Addison’s Disease: This serious condition occurs when the adrenal gland fails to produce sufficient adrenal hormones. It can result in vomiting, poor appetite, lethargy, and severe shock. Diagnosis involves a series of tests.
Cataracts: Similar to humans, Newfoundlands can develop cloudy spots on the eye lens known as cataracts. Regular examination by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist is recommended, and surgical removal is an option if necessary.
Cherry Eye: Cherry eye refers to the swelling of the third eyelid gland, appearing as a red mass in the inner corner of the eye. Surgical intervention is often required to correct this condition.
Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis: This heart problem is characterized by a narrow connection between the left ventricle and the aorta. Diagnosis and appropriate treatment should be sought from a veterinarian.
Epilepsy: Newfoundlands can inherit epilepsy, resulting in mild to severe seizures. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential, as seizures can have various underlying causes.
Hip Dysplasia: This heritable condition occurs when the thighbone does not fit properly into the hip joint. Regular screening for hip dysplasia is recommended, and affected dogs should not be bred.
Elbow Dysplasia: Elbow dysplasia is a hereditary condition common in large breeds, causing joint laxity and resulting in lameness. Treatment options include surgery and pain management.
Hypothyroidism: This disorder affects the thyroid gland and can manifest in various symptoms, including epilepsy, hair loss, obesity, and skin conditions. Treatment involves medication and dietary management.
Cystinuria: Cystinuria is an inherited disorder that impairs the reabsorption of cystine in the kidneys, leading to the formation of stones in the urinary tract. Medication can help prevent stone formation, and genetic testing is available.
Cancer: Newfoundlands are susceptible to various forms of cancer. Early detection and appropriate treatment options, such as chemotherapy, surgery, and medications, can be beneficial.
Gastric Torsion (Bloat): This life-threatening condition affects large, deep-chested breeds, including Newfoundlands. It occurs when the stomach becomes distended and twists, requiring immediate veterinary attention.
Ruptured Anterior Cruciate Ligament: This knee injury is common in active dogs and can lead to sudden lameness. Treatment options range from rest and medication to surgical intervention.
Being aware of these health conditions and working with a responsible breeder and veterinarian can help ensure the well-being of your Newfoundland companion.
Newfoundland Care
The Newfoundland is a relatively calm breed but still requires regular physical activity. While not built for long-distance running, they excel at swimming. When raising a Newfoundland puppy, it is important to take special care. Like other giant breeds, Newfoundlands experience rapid growth between four and seven months of age, which makes them susceptible to bone disorders. Additionally, due to their large size, Newfoundlands age more quickly than smaller dogs.
To protect their growing joints, it is advisable to avoid having a Newfoundland puppy run and play on hard surfaces like pavement or engage in activities such as cart pulling until they are at least two years old and their joints are fully developed. Normal play on grass is generally safe, as well as participating in puppy agility with one-inch jumps. Swimming is an excellent exercise option for Newfoundland puppies as it helps build their muscles without risking joint injuries.
Training should commence as soon as you bring your Newfoundland puppy home. They are generally eager to please, making training relatively easy. Leash training is particularly important for Newfoundlands, especially considering that they will reach over 100 pounds when fully grown. Enrolling them in puppy kindergarten and obedience classes is highly recommended to provide structured training and socialization opportunities.
Newfoundland Feeding
It is recommended to provide 4 to 5 cups of high-quality dry food per day, divided into two meals. Newfoundland puppies should have a diet that supports slow and steady growth, with 22 to 24 percent protein and 12 to 15 percent fat. Portion control is important, so it’s advised to measure the food and feed them twice a day rather than leaving it out continuously. Each dog’s food requirements vary based on factors like size, age, metabolism, and activity level. Adjustments to food and exercise may be needed if weight issues arise. The quality of the dog food also matters, as better nutrition reduces the quantity required. For more detailed feeding guidelines, refer to specific recommendations from your vet.
Newfoundland Coat Color And Grooming
The Newfoundland possesses a flat, water-resistant double coat, consisting of a coarse and long outer coat and a soft and dense undercoat. Shedding is moderate, with the heaviest shedding occurring in the spring and fall seasons. The breed showcases various coat colors, including solid black, brown, gray, or Landseer (white with black markings). Proper coat maintenance involves brushing two to three times a week, while bathing should be done every one to two months. Due to the challenging grooming task, many owners prefer professional groomers, although regular brushing is still necessary.
Newfoundlands, like other fluffy-coated dogs, tend to get dirty easily. Expect muddy paws, entangled leaves or burrs, and feces on the hindquarters. Nail trimming should be done monthly to prevent painful tears and other issues. If you are uncomfortable doing it yourself, seek assistance from a vet or groomer to avoid cutting the nail quick and causing bleeding.
Weekly ear checks are essential to identify redness, odor, or signs of infection. Use a gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner on a cotton ball to clean the outer ear, without inserting anything into the ear canal. Start acclimating your Newfoundland to brushing and examination from a young age. Regularly handle their paws and inspect their mouth, making the experience positive with praise and rewards. This sets the foundation for easy veterinary exams and handling in adulthood. While grooming, be attentive for sores, rashes, redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, nose, mouth, eyes, and feet. Clear eyes with no redness or discharge indicate good health. Conducting a thorough weekly examination aids in early detection of potential health concerns.
Newfoundland Children And Other Pets
The Newfoundland is a gentle giant known for its high tolerance of children, making it an ideal family companion. However, due to its size and abundance of soft fur, it can unintentionally knock over toddlers or small children. To ensure safety, it is crucial to teach children how to approach and interact with dogs properly. Supervision is necessary during interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any potentially harmful behavior such as biting or pulling on ears or tail. Children should be educated not to approach dogs while they are eating or sleeping, and never attempt to take away their food. Regardless of a dog’s friendliness, no dog should be left unsupervised with a child.
The Newfoundland breed generally demonstrates an easygoing and friendly nature towards other pets, including cats and small mammals. However, proper socialization and training are important factors in fostering harmonious relationships between the Newfoundland and other animals in the household.
Newfoundland Rescue Groups
Many people acquire Newfoundlands without fully understanding the responsibilities of ownership. However, there are numerous Newfoundlands in need of adoption or fostering. If you are interested in adopting, consider checking for local rescue organizations.
Newfoundland Breed Organizations
Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support.
On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues.
