Newfoundland

The Newfoundland is a large, powerful working breed originating from the Canadian island of Newfoundland. Their exact ancestry is debated, but they are believed to have descended from various European working dogs brought to the island by fishermen from England, Ireland, Portugal, and France, possibly interbreeding with native dogs or even the now-extinct black wolf. For centuries, these rugged dogs were indispensable to the fishermen of Newfoundland, performing a multitude of tasks in the harsh North Atlantic environment.

Their primary roles included hauling fishing nets and lines from the water, carrying boat lines to shore, pulling carts laden with fish or supplies, and, most famously, performing water rescues. Their webbed feet, muscular build, massive lung capacity, and thick, oily, water-resistant double coat made them exceptionally well-suited for working in icy waters. Stories of their lifesaving abilities are legendary. The breed’s sweet temperament also made them valued family companions. The Newfoundland was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1886 and continues to be admired for its gentle nature and impressive capabilities.

The hallmark of the Newfoundland breed is its exceptionally sweet, gentle, and patient temperament. They are known for their calm and docile nature, often described as “gentle giants.” Newfies are deeply devoted to their families and are particularly renowned for their affinity with children, earning them the nickname “Nana dog” after the character in J.M. Barrie’s *Peter Pan*. They are typically very tolerant and protective of children in their own family.

Despite their gentle nature, Newfoundlands are also courageous and possess a natural guarding instinct, though they are not typically aggressive without serious provocation. They are intelligent and relatively easy to train due to their desire to please, but they can also be somewhat sensitive. They thrive on human companionship and do not do well if left isolated for long periods. Their calm demeanor in the home is often contrasted with their powerful presence and capability when a job needs to be done, especially involving water.

The Newfoundland has a heavy, water-resistant double coat designed to protect it from cold water and harsh weather. The outer coat is coarse and moderately long, while the undercoat is soft and very dense. This magnificent coat requires regular and thorough grooming to keep it healthy, clean, and free from mats.

Newfoundlands are significant shedders, especially during their seasonal “coat blows” (typically spring and fall), when they lose their undercoat in large amounts. Daily brushing with a slicker brush, pin brush, and a sturdy undercoat rake is essential during these periods. For the rest of the year, brushing two to three times a week should suffice. Pay particular attention to areas prone to matting, such as behind the ears, in the “armpits,” and the feathering on the legs. Baths are needed only occasionally, as their coat has natural oils. It’s crucial to ensure they are rinsed thoroughly and dried completely. They are also known for drooling, so keeping a “drool rag” handy is advisable. Regular nail trims, ear cleaning, and dental care are also important.

Newfoundlands have moderate exercise needs despite their giant size. They are not high-energy endurance athletes like some other working breeds but require regular daily activity to stay physically fit, prevent obesity, and keep them mentally stimulated. Several moderate daily walks, totaling about 30-60 minutes, are usually sufficient for an adult Newfoundland.

True to their heritage, most Newfoundlands absolutely love swimming, and it’s an excellent low-impact form of exercise for them. They also enjoy activities like:

• Leisurely walks with their family, especially in cooler weather.
• Playtime in a securely fenced yard.
• Carting or drafting activities, if opportunities exist, which taps into their historical working role.

It’s important not to over-exercise young, growing Newfoundlands, as their bones and joints are still developing. Due to their thick coats and large size, they can be prone to overheating in hot or humid weather, so exercise should be scheduled for cooler parts of the day, and they should always have access to shade and fresh water.

Newfoundlands, like many giant breeds, are unfortunately prone to a number of health problems and have a relatively short lifespan. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock extensively. Potential health concerns include:

• Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: A major concern in large and giant breeds, involving malformation of these joints.
• Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus – GDV): A life-threatening emergency where the stomach twists; Newfoundlands are a deep-chested breed at high risk.
• Heart Conditions: Including Subaortic Stenosis (SAS) and Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM). Cardiac screening is crucial for breeding stock.
• Cystinuria: An inherited metabolic disorder that can lead to the formation of kidney and bladder stones. DNA testing is available.
• Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland.
• Eye Problems: Such as entropion (inward rolling eyelids), ectropion (outward rolling eyelids), and cataracts.
• Cruciate Ligament Rupture:** A common knee injury in large, active dogs.
• Addison’s Disease:** A disorder of the adrenal glands.