The Newfoundland is commonly referred to as the "Newfie". Their exact origin is unknown. However, these "gentle giants" are highly revered for their outstanding ability as a water rescuer. Due to their massive size and strength they are also well known for their hauling and retrieving capabilities.
The Newfoundland is a sweet, elegant, and courageous breed. They are the embodiment of dignity and carry themselves in a stately and noble manner. The Newfoundland is a deeply devoted and extremely delightful companion. They are considered to be one of the friendliest breeds.
The Newfoundland is generous with love and affection. They are very sociable and friendly to visitors they know. They have a keen sense of responsibility and are excellent with children. They become so attached to their families that they cannot ever adapt to a new home or environment. They are generally good with other pets. This breed thrives on human companionship. They are gentle, heroic, and docile. Newfoundlands are extremely protective and will place themselves between their family and any danger that appears to be of a threatening nature.
The Newfoundland requires daily brushing. The under coat is shed in the spring and fall and should be given extra attention at these times. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary to prevent stripping the coat of its' natural oils. Dry shampooing is best. They are prone to hip dysplasia, weight gain, and heart disease.
The Newfoundland has a water resistant double coat. The outer coat is coarse, flat, oily, and of medium length. The under coat is dense and soft in texture. The coat color is typically black, but may also be black with blue highlights, bronze, brown, or gray. The Newfoundland's coat serves as protection against frigid water and extremely cold climates. They are heavy shedders.
Newfoundlands may be slightly difficult to train. They are extremely sensitive and will not respond to harsh or heavy-handed direction. They require and respond best to a calm, patient, and loving tone of voice. The Newfie does well with early basic obedience and socialization. They may be trained as a guard or work dog.
The Newfoundland is slow moving and has a tendency to be lazy. They enjoy and benefit from play sessions, daily walks, and swimming. They are relatively inactive indoors. The Newfie will do okay in an apartment or condominium dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise. They enjoy a run in a small fenced yard.
Male: 130-150; Female: 100-120 lbs
Male: 28; Female: 26 inches
solid black, brown, or gray, may have white on chin, chest, toes, and tail tip; or white base color with black markings
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