Newfoundland Dog

Newfoundland Dog Characteristics

The Newfoundland Dog has earned the nickname, “Gentle Giant” many times over. Most Newfoundlands weigh between 110-152 pounds (50-69 kilograms). Females tend to weigh less than the males, and a typical Newfoundland stands proud at 26-28 inches (66-71 cm) tall. Newfoundlands are known and loved for their gentle dispositions and affectionate natures. What is simply amazing about this breed is that despite their enormous size, Newfoundlands are extremely docile with creatures big and small. They are loyal companions to adults, kind playmates to children, and have a low tendency toward barking. Many people describe the Newfoundland Dog as the perfect pet.

Physical Description of a Newfoundland Puppy

Have you ever seen a bear cub? If so, didn’t you just want to pick up the 'wittle bitty baby' and smother it with love? Well, unfortunately you can’t do that to a bear cub. That would be foolish, as it's mother would become quite upset, and who wants to upset a mother bear? But here’s the good news: A Newfoundland puppy resembles a bear cub. So, you can hug, kiss, and smother a Newfie puppy with love, and its mother will just look on happily as her pup receives the positive attention they rightfully deserve.

Now, remember, these little puppies quickly grow into large dogs with massive heads. When you look to purchase or adopt a Newfoundland Dog puppy, you need to keep in mind the size of dog it will grow into. Dogs should never be disposable.

Newfoundland Dog Coat and Grooming

Keep in mind, a happy Newfoundland is a comfortable Newfoundland. Newfies have very thick coats, so summer heat and overly heated homes tend to make this breed very uncomfortable. You may need to crank up the air conditioner on those really hot days.

Practically all dogs shed. Newfoundlands just tend to shed a little more than some other dogs. That’s because they have a lot of thick undercoat. During the spring and fall, Newfies shed this undercoat, a process referred to as “blowing coat." Extra grooming may be required during these times.

• Coat Length - A Newfoundland’s coat tends to be medium to long, with a thick undercoat.
• Trimming - It is not necessary to trim your Newfoundland’s fur, but it is recommended. The fur is easier to care for that way.
• Brushing - Newfoundlands have a thick double coat. It is necessary to brush the coat for about 10 minutes daily to keep it in good condition and to avoid uncomfortable and unsightly matted fur.

Breed Varieties

Newfoundlands are usually black or chocolate brown, but gray varieties, which are very rare, do exist.

Most kennel clubs consider the black-and-white Landseer to be a Newfoundland Dog breed with a color variation. However, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), or in English, the World Canine Organization, considers the Landseer a separate breed. Regardless, Landseers tend to be a little smaller and are said to drool less than their darker counterparts.

Exercise Requirements

No doubt about it, a Newfoundland is a big dog, and simply being that big takes a lot of energy. So, the fact that they love to lounge around the house is no surprise. That is why so many people who live in apartments argue that even though Newfies are huge, they can adapt happily to apartment life. However, that does not mean that Newfies do not need exercise, and if the activity has to do with water, the Newfie will love it all the more! Newfies love to swim, and their thick coats are water resistant, and their feet are webbed. Additionally, Newfoundlands have the natural instincts to rescue anyone in the water, whether they are drowning or not.

Health Issues

As with many breeds, the Newfoundland Dog is susceptible to a number of health issues including:

• Hip Dysplasia
• Heart Disease
• Cystinuria
• Eye Problems
• Thyroid Disease
• Von Willebrand's Disease
• Bloat (Torsion)

Protective Instincts

The Newfoundland is gentle, but protective of his family if needed. Be sure to socialize your dog well so he knows how to behave in normal situations.

Cost of Newfoundland Ownership

Just by taking size into consideration, one would automatically assume a Newfoundland dog eats a massive amount of food; however, that is not the case. Newfoundlands do not require excessive amounts of food. As a puppy, a Newfoundland should eat four small meals per day, just like any other puppy. As an adult, a Newfoundland generally consumes four to six cups of food per day. And due to their typically low metabolism, most Newfoundland owners report their Dog Food bills are lower in comparison to many medium-sized dogs. So, depending on the quality of food you purchase, expect to spend around $7.00 to $12.00 per week.

Miscellaneous Facts

• $1000.00-$2000.00 per pup.
• Breed Rescue is an option.
• Average life span nine to eleven years.
• Average litter is eight to ten puppies.

External Links for Newfoundlands

• The Newfoundland Club of America
• Newfoundland Dog Club of Canada