Newfoundland Breed Information

The Newfoundland is a large breed of dog that acquired its name from its roots in the Canadian province. A dog that possesses a temperament that the Pet Info website calls "outstanding," the Newfoundland makes a fine family pet. The dog has health problems typical of large breeds and the Newfoundland's history categorizes it as a member of the working class of dogs.

  1. Identification

    • The male Newfoundland averages 27 to 29 inches tall at its shoulders, with females averaging 25 to 27 inches. The largest male individuals may approach weights close to 150 lbs., while females weigh 100 to 120 lbs. The Newfoundland has a coat of dense medium-length hair. This type of dog has a large head and broad, powerful shoulders. The dog's coat comes in black, gray, brown and a black and white mix.

    History

    • Dog experts have various theories on the origins of the Newfoundland breed. Some believe the dog is a descendant of dogs brought to North America by the Vikings, while others contend the Newfoundland is a cross between European breeds like the mastiff and a Canadian breed called the Labrador. The large size of the Newfoundland made it a candidate as a working animal, no matter its roots. The dog performed such duties as hauling fishing nets from the water, pulling carts and carrying packs. Newfoundlands today are family dogs, but they can excel in search and rescue capacities and as water dogs.

    Disposition

    • The Newfoundland has a calm and patient demeanor, displaying high intelligence and loyalty to his owners. The Newfoundland is not a dog that frequently barks. Newfoundlands show such attachment to their families that they often do poorly if they must go to another home. Newfoundlands mix well with other breeds and get along in most scenarios with cats. Despite their size, the dog is no threat to youngsters and a Newfoundland will interact well with toddlers, young kids and older children.

    Health Concerns

    • The Newfoundland tends to become lazy if you allow it to do so. This can lead to weight gains that can often lead to poor health. Some of the more common problems that Newfoundlands encounter include a genetic one called subaortic stenosis, a potentially serious heart malady. Because of their size, the Newfoundland is prone to hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Gastric torsion, a condition in which the dog's intestinal tract twists, is another health concern for this breed.

    Considerations

    • The size of a Newfoundland makes exercising it at a full run imprudent. Walks or slow jogs in cool weather are what fit Newfoundlands best. Newfoundlands will drool, but not as much as some of the other larger breeds, according to the Dog Breed Info website. Newfoundlands can reside in apartments and homes with small yards, because they are not very active. The Newfoundland does enjoy the water and is an excellent swimmer, aided by the fact that the breed has webbed feet.