Newfoundlands are strong and massive dogs. This breed is well known for its ability to swim and rescue drowning victims. Newfs are considered a great family dog due in part to their intelligence, protectiveness, and tolerance for children.
Newfoundland Breed Information
"Gentle Giant' is the name most associated with a Newfoundland dog. The size of an adult male averages 29 inches in height with a weight of 130 to 150 pounds. The adult females are approximately 26 inches in height and weigh between 100 to 120 pounds. Puppies are often said to resemble bear cubs. Newfs are deep-bodied with a heavy bone structure and are very muscular and strong.
The coat of the Newfoundland is long, thick, course, and heavy. Daily brushing is recommended. Shedding occurs in the spring and fall. Dry shampoo is recommended as bathing strips away the coat's natural oils. Newfs have a double coat that is flat and water-resistant.
Newfoundland dogs have a wide muzzle and dark brown deep-set eyes. They have cat-like feet that are webbed. Ears are triangular in shape with rounded tips and are small. The majority of Newfoundland dogs are black in color. However, brown and bronze are also accepted colors. Solid colored Newfs may have splashes of white on the toes, chest, and tail.
Temperament of Newfoundland Dogs
Sweetness is the hallmark of the Newfoundland. This breed is very sociable and gentle. Known for being calm and patient, they generally do well with children and other animals.
Newfs rarely bark but do display a protective nature. They are intelligent enough to know when a person is a threat or not. Newfoundland dogs enjoy being with their family and are quite playful.
This breed enjoys swimming and playing in water. They enjoy the outdoors.
Newfs can be difficult to train. Training must be done in a calm manner. Firm and consistent training will ensure a well balanced dog. Newfs become very sensitive to the tone of their owner's voice. Voices during training should be calm and firm. Make sure the dog follows rules on a daily basis.
Health Issues with Newfoundland Dogs
Newfs are prone to hip dysplasia and congenital heart defects. Always obtain a guarantee in writing from the breeder against hip dysplasia, congenital defects, and especially heart defects, such as sub-aortic stenosis. If a breeder does not offer this, find one that will.
Health issues that can also effect a Newfie are arthritis, eye problems, bloat (torsion), Von Willebrand's disease, cystinuria, and thyroid disease.
It is important to not let a Newfoundland become overweight due to the various health issues that plague the breed.
Cost and Life Span of a Newfoundland
Prices for a puppy will vary depending on the breeder. Average price range for a Newfie varies between $1000 to $2000 per pup. An average litter of Newfoundland puppies are between 8 and 10. Breed rescue is another option to obtain a Newfoundland at a lower cost.
Newfoundland dogs do not require excessive amounts of food due to their massive size. Puppies eat four small meals per day. Adult Newfoundland dogs eat four to six cups of food daily. Average price to feed a Newfoundland is $7.00 to $12.00 weekly depending on the quality of dog food purchased.
Newfoundland dogs have an average life span of 9 to 11 years.
Considerations
Newfoundland dogs are family friendly and make wonderful pets. However, before purchasing a Newfoundland keep in mind the massive size of the animal and the daily care the dog requires. Newfies can easily adapt to apartment life, if given adequate daily exercise.
Newfoundland dogs love to swim and have a natural instinct to rescue anyone in the water. This can include people who are not drowning and are just out for a swim.
Make sure to socialize a Newfoundland puppy so the dog will know how to behave in normal situations.
Newfoundlands drool a lot! They have loose lip flews and can sling slobber up to 20 feet. Many owners carry bibs or towels to wipe off the drool after they take a drink of water.
If a person is searching for a wonderful addition to the family, the Newfie may be a great fit. However, the owner must have a willingness to teach the Newfie good manners before he weighs over a hundred pounds.
References:
American Kennel Club, "Newfoundland Breed Information" accessed March 29, 2010
Dog Owner's Guide, "The Newfoundland" accessed March 29, 2010
Dog Breed Info, "Newfoundland" accessed March 29, 2010
Sandra Blake - Sandra resides in Ohio. She attended the Academy of Health Sciences and Columbus State. She has years of experience in health information ...
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