Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a large breed from Newfoundland, would you believe? Bred to be working dogs, hauling wood and moving nets for fishermen. They are hardworking dogs suited to both land and water.
They are sweet-natured, strong and loyal dogs. This large dog needs plenty of space and will do well in a rural country where it can swim and romp. If you are looking for a big dog for you and your family, you may have found your perfect breed.
Many large dogs don’t need a lot of exercise and the Newfoundland is no different; a good daily walk and plenty of playtimes are enough. They love to romp around, this dog is way too large to have in an apartment, and they love to swim and run about in the snow.
They are devoted and loving to their families; they are gentle giants and great around kids of any age. They are massive, so you would want to keep an eye on them around younger kids; they might get injured only through love, though. They are pretty playful, so they will enjoy running around with older kids. They are known as nanny dogs and will want to protect your children and family. They do not cope well with being left alone and are prone to suffering from separation anxiety. They are not dogs for people who work full time.
They are usually good with strangers but perhaps a little un-trusting so that good socialisation will help them. They are good watchdogs, and you will also be informed of people at the door or anything of interest going on outside.
They should be OK with other dogs but they may be better as the only dog in the household; you might want to avoid two males together. Cats and small animals may be OK if brought up in the same home. They will typically chase neighbourhood cats with delight!
They are intelligent dogs and easy to train. These are large, powerful dogs, you will need to establish yourself as the top dog early on, and then you will have a lovely well-trained companion for life. Try to keep training exciting and fun for the best results and avoid being harsh with them. Identifying their motivation reward early will get you the best results and it’s normally food.
They have an undercoat, and they are heavy shedders and will completely replace their coats (blowing) 1-3 times per year, usually taking around 3 weeks when shedding will be at its worst. Regular brushing at least weekly to try and combat the problem.
Newfoundland Stats
Surely you remember Nana, the fictional Newfoundland employed as a nanny by the Darling family in Peter Pan? Sweet-natured Nana was first introduced to the public by Scottish novelist and playwright J. M. Barrie in his 1904 play, Peter Pan, which later became the well-loved kids’ story we know today.
- Weight -50kg –54kg
- Size – 64cm – 70cm
- They live for 8-10 years
