Newfoundland Dog Breed Characteristics & Information

The Newfoundland dog, or Newfie, is a Canadian breed known for its loyalty. They have a gorgeous fluffy coat and are mainly recognised by their webbed feet. This breed has an awe-inspiring history and is exceptionally good at water rescues.

Keep reading to learn more about the history, characteristics, training tips, and more on this breed.

The Newfoundland dog is believed to have originated from the Canadian province and is associated with the local fishermen. One theory suggests that it might be a crossbreed of the extinct American Black Wolf and the Tibetan Mastiff, while the other says that it might have interbred with the local wolves of Eastern Canada.

This breed gained popularity when the governor of Newfoundland preferred Newfoundland dogs over other breeds. It was first shown in England in 1860 and received recognition from the American Kennel Club in 1879. Newfoundland dogs earned their first title in 1883. In the past, they also worked as sledgedogs.

Some of the characteristics of Newfoundland dogs are:

• Lifespan: Newfoundland dogs have an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years.
• Height: Irrespective of their genders, Newfoundland dogs grow up to 25 to 28 inches.
• Colour: Newfoundland dogs come in various colours, such as black, brown, grey, and Landseer.
• Weight: Both males and females have an average weight of 100 to 150 pounds.
• Temperament: Newfoundland dogs are very affectionate towards children and tend to please their family members.
• Energy Level: Newfoundland dogs have a moderate energy level and need minimal stimulation.

Newfoundland dogs are a lazy dog breed that needs mental and physical stimulation. So, here are some tips to train your Newfoundland dog:

• Be Gentle: Being rude and harsh while training can hurt your Newfoundland dog. This may make your pet scared and stubborn, and they may not want to continue their training. Hence, always keep your calm during the training sessions.
• Use Positive Reinforcement: When your dog shows the desired attitude, shower him with love and his favourite treats. You can also ask him to show a desired behaviour and, upon performing, treat him again. Repeat this and help him correlate both acts.
• Be Firm and Consistent: Use the same cues to train your dog and ensure every family member is on the same page. Don’t skip training sessions, as this might confuse your Newfoundland dog. Also, have fun in between sessions to keep it fun.

Some of the common health problems seen in Newfoundland dogs are:

• Cherry Eye: Cherry Eye can affect one or both eyes. In this, the third eyelid gland in your Newfoundland dog swells up and forms a red mass in the inner corner of the affected eye. Surgery is the only treatment available to correct this.
• Addison’s Disease: The adrenal gland is crucial for all bodily functions. In this disorder, the Newfoundland dog cannot produce enough adrenal hormones, causing lethargy, severe shock, and a poor appetite.
• Epilepsy: Epilepsy is an inherited disease that causes mild to severe seizures. Seizures cause discomfort to your Newfoundland dog and manifest as unusual running, vomiting, etc. Treatment includes lifelong medication.
• Bloating: Deep-chested dogs like Newfoundland dogs suffer from this life-threatening condition. In this, the stomach gets twisted after getting filled with gas and thereby cuts off the blood supply to the stomach. It requires immediate medical help.
• Ruptured Anterior Cruciate Ligament: Ruptured Anterior Cruciate Ligament is the most common knee injury seen in Newfoundland dogs. Most of the active dogs suffer from this, and it manifests as lameness. Appropriate rest is essential for recovery.
• Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis: Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis is a heart problem seen in Newfoundland dogs where a narrow connection is established between the aorta and the left ventricle. You should seek a vet for treatment modalities.
• Cystinuria: Cystinuria is an inherited and severe condition of the kidneys where the kidneys lose their ability to cystine reabsorption. This leads to stone formation in the urinary tract. If diagnosed early, medication and proper follow-up may stop stone formation.

The following section lists 4 essential tips to take care of your Newfoundland dog:

• Grooming: Newfoundland dogs are moderate shedders but shed heavily during two seasons, spring and fall. Coat maintenance requires brushing two to three times weekly and bathing once a month. However, regular brushing is more advisable. Nails should also be trimmed every month.
• Food and Nutrition: Newfoundland dogs require high-quality dry dog food. They should eat 4 to 5 cups daily, divided into two meals. Their diet should include slowly digested carbohydrates and 22 to 24 per cent protein. The food should also depend on the dog's age and metabolism.
• Exercise: Newfoundland dogs are a large breed that requires much training. However, they are slow-moving and not the athletic ones. Hence, getting them to exercise can be a tough job. A brisk walk for 30 to 40 minutes daily is more than enough. Also, they are pretty playful with kids.
• Climate: The long and thick coats of Newfoundland dogs denote that they are bred for colder climates. Hence, the owner should keep them from the sun temporarily. They can tolerate heat but only for a short period. However, they should have proper access to air conditioning to protect them from heat strokes.

Newfoundland dogs are fond of their owners and possess a mellow demeanour.  However, if you do not like dog slobber, this breed might not be the perfect choice for you as they drool all day. Their thick coat needs excessive maintenance to keep in condition, which may also require additional expenses.