Newfoundland

Newfoundland
Size: Extra-Large
Other Names: Newfie, Newf
Country of Origin: Newfoundland (pre-confederation with Canada)
Accreditation:
American Kennel Club (AKC): Working
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): Working
United Kennel Club (UKC): Guardian Dog
Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC): Utility
The Kennel Club (KC): Working Dogs
Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA): Working Dogs
National Kennel Club (NKC): Recognized
New Zealand Kennel Club (NZKC): Utility

The Newfoundland is a large, heavy dog, well-balanced and deep-bodied, heavy boned and muscular, with a body that is slightly longer than it is tall.  His head is massive, with a broad skull, and a broad, deep square muzzle, covered with short, fine hair.  He has relatively small, deep-set, black or brown eyes, that are spaced wide apart.

A giant water dog for a cool house and yard; a heavy shedding coat, a soft deep voice, and size that needs room and a swim, not a studio.

The Newfoundland originated in Newfoundland from a breed indigenous to the island.  It is likely that his size resulted from the introduction of large mastiffs, brought to the island by many generations of Portuguese fishermen.  He was originally used as a working dog, to pull fishnets and heavy equipment.  The Newfoundland excels at water rescue, due partly to his webbed feet and amazing swimming abilities.  The largest Newfoundland on record weighed 260 pounds, and measured over 6 feet from nose to tail.
Height
Male: 28 inches; Female: 26 inches
Weight
Male: 130-150 pounds; Female: 120-140 pounds
Color
Black, brown, gray, or landseer (black head and white and black body)
Coat
Thick and straight
Lifespan
8–10 years
Litter size
4–10 puppies

Temperament

The Newfoundland is known for his sweet disposition and loyalty, often being referred to as the "gentle giant".  He is extremely laid-back and good with children.  He has a deep bark, and is a fine guardian and watchdog.

Training

The Newfoundland is easy to train, and are considered easy to housebreak.

Care and grooming

Newfoundland dogs require grooming at least once every two weeks.

Shedding

Seasonal and heavy; the water-resistant coat blows a thick undercoat.

Health

Newfoundlands may develop hip and elbow dysplasia, heart disease (especially subvalvular aortic stenosis), and cystinuria.  Heart and joint screening of breeding stock is important.

Crosses that include the Newfoundland

These hybrid pages list this breed as a parent. Open a name to see the other contributing breed.

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