The History of Water Rescue Dogs

The Newfoundland, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Portuguese Water Dog, Field Spaniel, and German Wirehaired Pointer are the breeds that work well in water, according to the Dog Owner's Guide, because they have webbed feet. However, the Newfoundland breed has excelled at saving lives in the water, and is worked as a water rescue dog. Newfoundlands are natural-breed water rescue dogs. These friendly companions are some of the gentlest, largest dogs in the world. Also referred to as, Newfs or Newfies, these gentle giants were first discovered in Newfoundland, Canada in the 1700s, according to Bearadise Newfoundands. Documentation and tales of heroic search-and-rescue efforts--even an entire ship's crew--have given these dogs a reputation of displaying courage and spirit.

  1. The Newfoundland

    • While there is not enough documentation to pinpoint the exact descendant of this amazing, massive animal, they are believed to have descended from the Great Pyrenees, or a "French hound," in Newfoundland. Fisherman brought the breed from the European continent, according to The American Kennel Club (AKA).

    Appearance and Ability

    • Size: The average height for adult males is 28 inches; 26 inches for adult bitches. The approximate weight of adult dogs ranges from 100 to 150 pounds, with males at the upper end. Their bulky size and large bones enable them to withstand rough ocean currents. They have webbed feet and great lung capacity and endurance for long-distance swimming, and they use a modified breaststroke, not your typical dog paddle. Their droopy lips allow for air passage when swimming through waves.

      Coat: A heavy oil-and water-resistant double coat protects the dog from hypothermia in icy waters.

      Color: Newfoundlands can be black, brown, gray, or black and white. The black and white Newfs are also known as the "Landseer," named after the artist Sir Edwin Henry Landseer, who has depicted the species in numerous paintings for the AKA, the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) and the Kennel Club (KC)--the clubs which consider the Landseer part of the breed, according to The Newfoundland Club of America (NCA).

    Fishermen and the Beast

    • These beautiful beasts have spectacular strength. Fishermen have been known to have these pets because they are good for pulling fishnets and heavy equipment. They have sweet personalities and are extremely good with children and other animals. Plus, they are loyal and have natural life-saving instincts and abilities, according to Dogster.

    The Water Test

    • These dogs have been professionally trained to work with fire departments because they can assist in life-saving efforts. In 1973, the NCA initiated a water test in Michigan that still continues today. Newfoundlands compete in conformation, obedience, agility, tracking, draft, water tests and carting, according to the AKC. The NCA outlined specific exercise routines to bring out the best of these dogs' inherent talents and diversity. Fostering and maintaining the water rescue dogs' abilities is important in preserving the history of the breed to the NCA. Hence, the NCA sponsors Water Tests across the country, according to the Colonial Newfoundland Club.

    Training Demonstration

    • Annual Water Training Demonstration: These dogs also have an annual water training demonstration at the Moleveno Dog Show, an Italian School of Dog Training that showcases their talents. During the demonstration, Newfs and their handlers jump out of helicopters hovering 15 feet above the water's surface. A well-conditioned Newf can tow an inflatable raft holding 20 people two miles to shore, according to the CNC.

    Considerations: Health Problems

    • Unfortunately, these dogs are prone to several health problems such as, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, heart disease, and Cystinuria, according to Bearadise Newfoundlands. These dogs can serve as indoor pets, as long as they get daily exercise and activity. Without activity, they can become lazy.