Instructions
Find a reputable breeder of large or giant breed puppies. It is not as important that they only breed Newfoundland dogs as it is that they have a flawless reputation. Check for a local breeder to make touring the facility easier. A reputable breeder will want their animals to go to a happy loving home, so be prepared to answer some questions too.If you don't feel comfortable with the breeding facility, do not adopt a pet from them. Don't make a big deal of any issues, even if there are atrocious living conditions for the animals. Make a quick get-away and call the proper authorities if necessary.
Have the breeder bring several Newfoundland puppies to a neutral area for playing. Look at as many puppies as are available. The more puppies there are, the less fearful they will be in playing. Pay no attention to gender at this time, if the dog is for pet purposes it will be spayed or neutered so this won’t matter. Almost all training issues between the sexes are wives-tales or have been domesticated out of the species.
Look at each Newfoundland puppy’s personality individually as it plays with the other puppies. Is it aggressive or submissive? Is it comfortable off playing by itself or is it an instigator for attention? Decide which personality fits best with your family situation. If you have a lot going on, a puppy that can play calmly with a toy might be best. If you have a quiet only child who needs a constant buddy, a trouble maker might be just the ticket.
Look at the body differences of the puppies. Age could factor in as Newfoundland puppies grow extremely fast in the first six months. Females tend to be smaller, but a small Newfoundland is usually about 100 pounds when full grown. Depending on whether the dog will be used for pet or for show, the size may matter so check the current breed standards on the internet.
Narrow down the puppies you are interested in bringing home by handling them individually. Calm the puppy down in your arms, then feel all over its body for any lumps or bumps. Rub the hair backwards to check for dandruff or bald spots. Ask the breeder for any problems that the puppy or litter may have had--it is in their best interest to be honest in all of their answers.
Look in the puppy’s mouth for proper tooth growth and whiteness, the teeth should look perfectly straight and white. While you are looking at the mouth, check for a severe overbite or underbite.
Check the Newfoundland puppy’s nose for any drainage. If it’s cold outside or the puppies have been playing hard, there may be clear drainage, but if green mucous or crust appears do not buy any of the puppies on that day. Inform the dog breeder if any congestion is found.
Check the rear hip area thoroughly. The puppy should allow you to handle this area rather firmly without wincing in any way. If the Newfoundland puppy shows any hip pain, tell the breeder and do not purchase that puppy.
Get a full health guarantee from the breeder. Know the laws in the state you are purchasing the pet--they are all available free on the internet.
How to Choose a Newfoundland Puppy
Once a reputable Newfoundland dog breeder has been found, choosing the right puppy for you and your family situation is the next step. As with people, every puppy has its own personality and characteristics that will follow it through life. Even puppies from the same litter can have remarkably different traits. When it's time to choose a Newfoundland puppy, keep the steps below in mind for a less stressful experience.