Newfoundland
A gentle giant with a heart of gold, the Newfoundland is a devoted family companion famous for its love of water and extraordinary gentleness with children.
Personality Traits
History and Origins
The Newfoundland is a majestic working breed that originated on the island of Newfoundland, off the eastern coast of Canada. These powerful dogs were developed by fishermen who needed a strong, water-loving companion to help with their daily work, hauling nets, retrieving lost tackle, and even rescuing people who had fallen into the icy North Atlantic waters. The breed's extraordinary swimming ability, waterproof double coat, and webbed feet made it uniquely suited to life on and around the sea.
The breed was well established by the 18th century and was brought to England by trading ships, where it quickly gained admirers among the British. The Newfoundland became associated with lifesaving, and countless accounts exist of Newfoundlands rescuing drowning people from rivers, harbours, and the open sea. One of the most celebrated Newfoundlands in British history reportedly helped save survivors from the shipwrecked vessel SS Ethie off the coast of Newfoundland in 1919.
The Kennel Club places the Newfoundland in the Working group, and the breed has maintained a steady following in the UK. Today, Newfoundlands serve primarily as family companions, though some continue to train in water rescue, demonstrating the instincts and abilities that have defined the breed for centuries.
Appearance
The Newfoundland is a massive, powerful dog that projects strength, dignity, and quiet authority. Males stand 71 cm at the shoulder and weigh 60 to 70 kg, though many individuals are considerably larger. Females are slightly smaller but equally impressive. The body is deep, broad, and well-muscled, with a level back, strong limbs, and the webbed feet that are characteristic of the breed.
The head is broad and massive, with a short, square muzzle and a well-defined stop. The eyes are relatively small, deep-set, and dark brown, carrying an expression of gentle dignity that perfectly captures the breed's character. The ears are small, triangular, and set well back on the head. The tail is broad and strong, used as a rudder during swimming and carried in a gentle curve.
The coat is a defining feature of the breed. It is flat, dense, and water-resistant, with a coarse outer coat and a thick, soft undercoat. The coat is slightly oily to the touch, providing natural waterproofing. Colours include black (the most traditional and common), brown, grey, and Landseer (white with black markings). The coat is magnificent but requires substantial grooming commitment.
Is a Newfoundland Right for You?
Newfoundlands are among the gentlest and most devoted of all breeds, but their giant size brings significant practical demands. Prospective owners need ample space, a budget for large-breed food and veterinary care, and a willingness to commit to regular grooming. The rewards, however, are immense, as few breeds offer the depth of companionship that a Newfoundland provides.
- Best suited to families with large homes and gardens who can accommodate a giant breed
- Exceptionally gentle and patient, making them outstanding companions for children
- Heavy grooming requirements, with regular brushing essential to maintain the thick coat
- Moderate exercise needs, but benefits from access to water for swimming
- Significant drool, particularly after eating and drinking
- Shorter lifespan of 8 to 10 years, as is common with giant breeds
Living with a Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are often called "nanny dogs" for their extraordinary gentleness with children, a reputation that is thoroughly deserved. These massive dogs seem to have an innate understanding of their own size and strength, adjusting their behaviour around small children with remarkable care. They are patient, tolerant, and watchful, keeping a quiet eye on the youngest members of the family with a protective devotion that is deeply moving to observe.
At home, Newfoundlands are calm, undemanding companions that are content to lie near their family and supervise household activities from a comfortable spot. They are not hyperactive or boisterous, but they do need daily exercise to maintain their health and prevent weight gain. Their love of water means that walks near lakes, rivers, or the coast are always appreciated.
Drool is an unavoidable aspect of life with a Newfoundland. These dogs drool, especially after eating, drinking, or when excited. Keeping cloths strategically placed and wiping the dog's face regularly becomes second nature. The shedding is also considerable, particularly during the moult, and regular grooming is not optional but essential for maintaining the coat and managing loose hair in the home.
Training Tips
Newfoundlands are gentle, willing dogs that respond beautifully to calm, positive training. They are intelligent and eager to please, and their naturally cooperative nature makes them a joy to train. Their size makes early training essential, as a fully grown Newfoundland that has not learned good manners is an enormous challenge to manage.
- Start training from puppyhood, focusing on lead manners and basic obedience
- Use gentle, positive reinforcement with praise and treats
- Socialise broadly to build confidence in a wide range of environments
- Introduce water activities early if possible, as swimming is natural and beneficial for the breed
- Be patient and gentle, as Newfoundlands are sensitive and respond poorly to harsh methods
- Consider water rescue training or carting, which connect with the breed's working heritage
Temperament
The Newfoundland temperament is a thing of quiet beauty. These enormous dogs are among the gentlest, most patient, and most devoted creatures in the entire canine world. They approach life with a calm, measured kindness that seems almost impossibly at odds with their massive physical presence. A Newfoundland in the home is a source of comfort, warmth, and unwavering companionship.
Their bond with their families is deep and enduring. Newfoundlands are not aloof or independent. They want to be near their people, sharing space, sharing activities, and offering their steady presence throughout the day. They are deeply sensitive to the emotional atmosphere of the home and will quietly position themselves beside any family member who seems upset or unwell.
With children, the Newfoundland is truly in its element. The breed's reputation as a "nanny dog" is based on generations of observed behaviour, a natural, instinctive gentleness and protectiveness around young ones that sets the Newfoundland apart from almost every other breed. They are patient beyond measure, tolerating being climbed on, hugged, and included in all manner of children's games without complaint.
With other animals, Newfoundlands are typically friendly and non-confrontational. They get along well with other dogs and can coexist peacefully with cats and smaller pets. Their gentle nature extends to virtually every creature they encounter, and aggression is extraordinarily rare in a well-bred, well-socialised Newfoundland.
Exercise Needs
Newfoundlands have moderate exercise needs. An hour of activity per day, split between walks and garden play, is usually sufficient for an adult dog. They enjoy steady walks at a relaxed pace and appreciate the opportunity to explore at their own speed. They are not high-energy dogs and do not require vigorous, sustained exercise.
Water is the Newfoundland's natural element, and swimming provides the ideal exercise for the breed. It is gentle on their joints, engages their natural instincts, and provides excellent cardiovascular workout without the impact of running. If you have access to safe, clean water, regular swimming sessions are one of the best things you can offer your Newfoundland.
As with all giant breeds, exercise during the puppy and adolescent stage must be carefully controlled. Over-exercising young Newfoundlands can damage growing bones and joints, leading to long-term orthopaedic problems. Short, gentle walks on soft ground and supervised play are appropriate until the dog is fully mature, typically around 18 months to two years of age.
Grooming
The Newfoundland's thick, double coat demands a significant grooming commitment. Brushing should be done at least three to four times per week to prevent matting and remove loose hair, and daily brushing is essential during the heavy shedding seasons in spring and autumn. A slicker brush, undercoat rake, and wide-toothed comb are the essential tools for managing the Newfoundland coat.
Shedding is prolific and year-round. Newfoundland owners quickly learn to accept that dog hair is a permanent feature of their clothing, furniture, and carpets. Regular grooming reduces the amount of loose hair in the home, but it never eliminates it entirely. A good vacuum cleaner and a relaxed attitude are essential accessories for the Newfoundland owner.
Bathing is a substantial undertaking due to the dog's size and coat density. Plan bathing sessions for warm days when the coat can dry naturally, or use a high-powered dog dryer. The coat must be dried thoroughly, as trapped moisture can cause skin problems. Pay attention to the ears, which should be checked weekly and cleaned as needed. Nail trimming and dental care are also essential components of the grooming routine. Drool management, including wiping the face after eating and drinking, is a daily task.
Health
Newfoundlands, as a giant breed, are prone to several significant health conditions. Hip and elbow dysplasia are common, and the Kennel Club recommends that all breeding stock be hip scored and elbow graded. Choosing a responsible breeder who tests their dogs comprehensively is one of the most important steps a prospective owner can take.
Heart conditions are a significant concern in the breed. Subaortic stenosis (SAS) is a congenital heart defect that can range from mild to life-threatening, and cardiac screening of breeding stock is essential. Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) can also occur. Cystinuria, a condition affecting the kidneys, is seen in the breed, and genetic testing is available.
Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus) is a risk for all deep-chested giant breeds, and preventive feeding practices should be adopted. Cruciate ligament injuries can occur in heavy, active dogs, and maintaining a healthy weight helps to reduce the risk. Osteosarcoma is seen at higher rates in giant breeds. With attentive health management and responsible breeding, Newfoundlands typically live 8 to 10 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Newfoundlands good with children?
Newfoundlands are one of the best breeds for families with children. They are renowned for their extraordinary patience, gentleness, and natural protectiveness around young ones. Their calm temperament and devotion make them outstanding family companions.
Do Newfoundlands drool a lot?
Yes, Newfoundlands are known for drooling, particularly after eating, drinking, or when excited. Keeping cloths handy for face-wiping is a practical necessity. The amount of drool varies between individuals.
Can Newfoundlands swim?
Newfoundlands are exceptional swimmers. They have webbed feet, a water-resistant coat, and a natural instinct for water work. Swimming is one of the best forms of exercise for the breed and connects with their heritage as working water dogs.
How much grooming does a Newfoundland need?
Newfoundlands need regular grooming at least three to four times per week, with daily brushing during shedding season. Their thick double coat mats easily and sheds heavily. Professional grooming sessions can supplement home grooming.
How big do Newfoundlands get?
Male Newfoundlands stand around 71 cm at the shoulder and typically weigh 60 to 70 kg, though some individuals are larger. They are a true giant breed that requires ample living space and a substantial budget for food and care.
Are Newfoundlands easy to train?
Yes, Newfoundlands are intelligent and eager to please, making them responsive to positive training methods. Their gentle nature means they respond best to calm, patient guidance. Early training is important due to their ultimate size.
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