Newfoundland

Is a Newfoundland right for you?

The Newfoundland is a giant working dog from the Canadian island of the same name, where it hauled loads for fishermen and pulled people from the water, protected by a water-resistant double coat. Its best-known trait is its extraordinary sweetness; the FCI standard makes gentleness and serenity part of the breed's definition. But this gentle giant was made for the cold North Atlantic: it copes badly with heat, drools a lot, sheds a lot and becomes the biggest thing in your home.

Before you adopt

The Newfoundland is not generally subject to breed restrictions (it is not on Turkey's dangerous-breeds list, for example).

The Newfoundland Club of America (NCA) considers hip and elbow X-rays, a cardiac exam by a cardiologist and a cystinuria DNA test necessary for all breeding stock, and also recommends thyroid, eye and patella evaluations. Ask the breeder for these results for both parents.

Heart screening has shown measurable results: in a 14-year French programme covering 921 Newfoundlands, systematic echocardiography and breeding decisions based on it brought aortic and pulmonic stenosis down to very low levels, with no cases found in the last three years. A puppy from screened lines genuinely carries lower risk.

If you live somewhere hot and have no place where the dog can stay cool all day, not getting this breed is the kindest choice for both of you.

Temperament

According to the FCI standard, the Newfoundland's expression reflects benevolence and softness; it is dignified, joyful and creative, known for its sterling gentleness and serenity.

Its patience with children is legendary, and it usually gets on well with other dogs and pets. It is not an aggressive guard, but it may place itself between its family and a stranger.

It has a strong attraction to water. Some individuals try to "rescue" swimmers by towing them to shore; this is the breed's working heritage.

It is intelligent and cooperative, and very sensitive to harsh voices and punishment. Training should rely on patience, praise and rewards.

Health issues and lifespan

A study of UK Kennel Club registered dogs found a median age at death of about 9.4 years for Newfoundlands, with bone tumours, other cancers and bloat among the most common causes of death in the breed. Sources usually give a lifespan of 9 to 10 years.

• Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat): A swollen belly, unproductive retching, heavy drooling, restlessness and pale gums are a life-threatening emergency; go straight to an emergency vet. Discuss preventive gastropexy at neutering with your vet.
• Osteosarcoma (bone cancer): Common in giant breeds. Persistent lameness or a swelling on a leg bone should not be dismissed as a sprain; it needs an X-ray.
• Hip and elbow dysplasia: Lameness, difficulty rising and with stairs. Controlled growth in puppyhood and a lean adult weight are the best protection.
• Subaortic stenosis (SAS): A congenital narrowing below the aortic valve. A murmur in puppyhood is often the first sign; severe cases can cause fainting on exercise and sudden death. Choose a puppy whose parents were screened by a cardiologist.
• Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM): Weakening of the heart muscle; coughing, fast breathing, lethargy and a swollen belly.
• Cystinuria: An inherited kidney defect in which cystine accumulates in urine and forms bladder stones. Straining, frequent urination, blood in the urine or inability to urinate is an emergency, especially in males. Parental DNA testing greatly reduces the risk.
• Heatstroke: Heavy panting, dark red tongue, staggering and vomiting. Move the dog somewhere cool at once, wet it with cool water and contact a vet.

Feeding

An adult Newfoundland (under the FCI standard, on average 68 kg for males and 54 kg for females) typically eats roughly 600-1,000 g of quality dry food a day depending on energy density and activity. The thick coat hides weight gain; check the ribs with your hands.

• Puppy (2-24 months): Giant-breed puppy food. Slow growth is the rule; excess calories and calcium supplements disrupt joint development.
• Adult: Daily ration split into two or three meals.
• Senior (from 6-7 years): Reduce calories; plan joint support with your vet.

To reduce bloat risk, avoid one large meal, use a slow-feeder for fast eaters, and limit activity for about an hour before and after meals. Dogs diagnosed with cystinuria need the special diet and plenty of water your vet recommends.

Grooming and coat

Water-resistant double coat with a moderately long outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat. Colours are black, brown, and white and black.

• Brush at least two or three times a week; daily during the spring and autumn undercoat moult.
• Behind the ears, the backs of the legs and under the tail mat easily; check regularly.
• Dry the coat thoroughly after swimming; moisture trapped in the undercoat can cause skin infection.
• Do not shave. Brushing out the undercoat helps cooling; shaving leaves the skin exposed to sun and heat.
• Check drop ears weekly and clean if needed.
• Keep drool cloths all around the house.
• Trim nails every three to four weeks.

Training and exercise

Daily requirement: 30-60 minutes of walking and, where possible, swimming in a safe place. Swimming is ideal because it does not load the joints. In summer, walk early in the morning or in the cool of the evening.

Priorities:

1. Early socialisation (8-16 weeks). People, children, sounds and other animals.
2. Loose-lead walking. A 60 kg dog that pulls cannot be controlled; teach it in puppyhood.
3. Calm greetings, no jumping up. Even a giant's affection can knock someone over.
4. Handling for care. Make brushing, drying, ear and nail care a game in puppyhood.
5. Controlled growth. Avoid stairs, jumping down and long strenuous walks until 18-24 months.

Newfoundlands also excel at working sports such as water work and cart pulling, which satisfy both mind and body.

History

According to the FCI standard, the breed originated on the island of Newfoundland from indigenous dogs and the big black "bear dog" introduced by the Vikings after the year 1100. With the arrival of European fishermen, various breeds helped shape the breed, but its essential characteristics remained.

By the time colonisation of the island began in 1610, the Newfoundland already largely had the build and behaviour that let it withstand a harsh climate and the sea. It pulled heavy loads on land and served as a water and lifeguard dog.

The white and black variety is of historical significance to the breed. Newfoundlands are still trained for water rescue in many countries, but most live as gentle family dogs.