The Newfoundland is a large, usually black, breed of dog originally used as a working dog in Newfoundland. They are known for their sweet dispositions. Today the Newfoundland is still used for many traditional duties in combination with being a companion dog.
History: The Newfoundland is a native North American dog originating from Newfoundland Island in Canada. In the early 1880s fishermen from many parts of Europe travelled to the cod banks of Newfoundland where there were two types of working dog: one more heavily built, large with a longish coat, whereas the other was lighter in build, an active, smooth-coated water dog. The heavier one was the Newfoundland and the other was the Labrador or the St. Johns breed of Newfoundland.
Appearance: The Newfoundland is a large, heavily coated, well balanced dog that is deep-bodied, heavily boned, muscular, and strong. A good specimen of the breed has dignity and proud head carriage. Their legs are sturdy and strong and sit atop the large, circular paws with webbed toes. Their backs of the legs also contain well flowing fur which separates them from most dogs. The Newfoundland has a large, broad head with small triangular ears that hang by their cheeks. The water-repellent long outer coat is flat, oily and slightly wavy with a thick oily undercoat. The coat is colored in black, brown, gray, and white and black.
Size: Height: dogs - 27-29 inches (69-74cm); bitches 25-27 inches (63-69cm)
Weight: dogs - 130-150 pounds (59-68 kg); bitches 100-120 pounds (45-54kg)
Temperament: Newfoundlands are even-tempered and tolerant dogs. They are noble, calm, gentle, loyal and trustworthy with a sweet temperament. They are friendly, loving and generally good natured dogs who love to be around their family members. They are more alert when they sense danger and will protect those they love when they need to. They have deep, fierce-sounding barks, but are not good guard dogs. They have been known to grieve when separated from their families. Despite their wonderful qualities, this breed is not for everyone. Their large size makes them difficult to keep in many living situations, although they do not require great amounts of exercise and as puppies they tend to tire easily.
Health: Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia and cystinuria (a hereditary defect that forms calculi stones in the bladder). Do not let a Newfoundland get fat. Also prone to a hereditary heart disease called sub-aortic stenosis (SAS).
Life expectancy: 8 - 10 years
Grooming: The Newfoundland needs brushed about twice weekly with a hard brush to avoid matting. The undercoat sheds twice yearly, heaviest in the spring. Avoid bathing unless absolutely necessary, as this strips away the coat’s natural oils. Instead, dry shampoo from time to time.
Puppy price: $500.00 - $2.000.00