This sweet-natured giant may look scary, but Newfoundlands are actually a calm, patient breed. They are naturally caring and gentle with kids and other pets and make loving housemates.
Personality and temperament
While this dog may look like it wants to eat you, Newfoundlands (or Newfies for short) are one of the sweetest, loving canines around. All this gentle soul wants is to be welcomed into your family and included in as many outings as possible. If that outing includes swimming, even better. Despite their size and deep bark, this is a sociable breed, friendly with strangers and patient with kids and other pets. Newfies don’t do well if left along for too long, though, so a calm peaceful home (with lots of pats and treats) suits them best.
Size and appearance
Newfoundlands are large powerful working dogs, and their body reflects that. They have a big broad head, deep chest and enormous paws, which are webbed for swimming. They can reach 71cm and weight an impressive 70kg. Picking these pooches up isn’t an option – dog ramps will be your friend. Their thick coat is water resistant and comes in a range of colours from black, brown, grey or Landseer (white with black patches). Their soft eyes and big grin (that often drools) tend to attract lots of pats and attention, which Newfies lap right up.
History
These large working dogs originate from the province of Newfoundland, Canada, (hence the name). They were diligently bred to help fisherman haul nets, retrieve gear and make sea rescues – even developing webbed paws, large lungs and a powerful tail to help withstand the icy waters of the choppy North Atlantic. Their strong frame also make them handy with a cart, carrying goods around the villages. Newfoundlands arrived in Europe around the 18th century and were popular with British fisherfolk, before becoming fashionable household pets. A Newfoundland called Hector was even on the inventory of the First Fleet to Australia in 1788, marking their introduction to the Southern Hemisphere. Today, Newfies are household pets as well as water rescue dogs and mobility assistants.
Health conditions that can affect this breed
These gentle giants are generally healthy pooches, however they can be prone to some common conditions, including:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia (where the joints don’t form properly)
- Heart disease
- Bloat (GDV) (life-threatening stomach twisting)
- Obesity
- Arthritis
- Cystinuria (a hereditary kidney condition)
Regular vet check-ups and care can help manage these conditions and keep your Newfoundland Dog healthy.
Food and exercise
Newfoundland Dogs need a nutrient-dense diet that focuses on join health, bone strength and steady growth. Due to their slower metabolism, Newfies need less food than you might think for such a large breed. It’s easy to over feed them and they are prone to obesity, so check with your vet for portion advice.
After so many years as a working dog, Newfies still need upwards of about 60 minutes of low-impact exercise a day. They love long walks, swimming, training and any activity where they have a ‘job’ to do. Avoid lots of high-impact exercise as it can damage their joints.
Grooming and maintenance
Newfoundland Dogs have the kind of coat that can handle swimming in icy waters during a Canadian winter. It takes a fair bit of maintenance to make sure it stays soft and shiny, especially during shedding.
- Bathe: every 6-8 weeks
- Professional groom: Regular de-shedding is recommended
How to groom your Newfoundland Dog
- Fur: brush twice weekly (daily during shedding)
- Nails: trim every 3-4 weeks
- Ears: check weekly for moisture and debris
- Eyes: wipe gently as needed
Training and space requirements
Born to work alongside their humans, Newfies are very trainable. Not only are they eternally patient but they are smart and eager to please – a winning combination. Gentle, reward-based training works best as these big-hearted dogs can be surprisingly sensitive.
This is a large breed that truly needs space to move, both inside and out. We’re talking larger homes with a shaded backyard or townhouses with larger outdoor areas. Their beds alone fill half a room. Newfoundland Dogs will struggle in really hot weather and suit cooler temperatures better – shade and water are essential for hotter days.
Best suited for…
Unmistakenly large and sweet-natured, Newfoundland Dogs are gentle hounds who just want to be loved. They suit families with kids, singles and anyone who has the space, time and energy to care for an adorable large dog that drools occasionally and sheds regularly.
