Newfoundland Purebred
Dog Breed Information

The Newfoundland, a member of the AKC Working group, loves the great

outdoors, especially the water, and needs plenty of exercise.

They are a brave and loyal companion and are also known as "Newfies" or "Newfs". Other nicknames, the "Gentle Giant" and "Nature's babysitter."

Sweetness of temperament is the hallmark of the Newfie; this is one of the most important characteristics of the breed. His oversized body and thick, insulated coat helps keeps him warm - even to swim in icy water.

They are also protective, but do not bark or growl. More often than not they tend to physically place themselves between any intruder and his family.

A multipurpose dog, at home on land and in water, the Newfie is capable of draft work and possesses strong natural water rescue tendencies. This dog breed is famous for rescuing drowning people.

The Newfie is a large, heavily coated, well balanced dog that is deep-bodied, heavily boned, muscular, and strong. Its webbed feet, water-resistant coat, and rudder-like tail make it an excellent swimmer.

See one of these guys in action

As then name implies, this dog breed originated in Newfoundland, Canada. This wonderful giant dog breed was originally used by fishermen in Newfoundland to help haul in their nets, to pull carts, to rescue drowning victims and to retrieve things in the water.

Males generally weigh from 130-150 pounds and are 28 inches tall, females are a little bit smaller. Overall they are good with children (supervise them with small children since they may knock them over by mistake) and other pets.

Remember also that giant breeds mature very slowly - a 6 month old Newfoundland may weigh 80 pounds but will still have a puppy mind set.

Keep in mind that they drool, snore and eat a lot of food, making these dogs an expensive pet to own. Daily brushing is essential to prevent matting in their full coat. Their color may be black, chestnut, or black-and-white.

Regular and moderate exercise is important as is the ability for the dog to have frequent opportunities to swim - he has a great instinct to carry anything in the water safely back to shore. He is very active for a giant breed. They do love to swim and retrieve. This dog breed breed needs a house with a fenced yard. They are sensitive to heat and does well in cooler climates.

Country of origin: Canada
Lifespan: 8-10 years
Colors: Black, gray, brown, white with black markings (Landseer)
Known health problems: Allergies, heart defects, hip and elbow dysplasia, congenital heart disorders, cystinuria, sub-aortic stenosis, bloat, eyelid problems. (SAS)
Famous Newfies" Boatswain, pet of Lord Byron; Josh, 2004 Best of Show winner at the Westminster Dog Show; Nana, the family dog in Peter Pan

More Photos to Enjoy

New and Recommended Reading:

The Newfoundland Dog Owner's Guide

If you're interested in learning more detailed information about this delightful purebred dog before you get one then we do heartily recommend the e-book above filled with information only about the Newfie.

"The Newfoundland Dog Owner's Guide" is a groundbreaking guide about Newfs and it's the result of years of research. It's packed with pages of pure gold when it comes to living with and loving your Newfie! Things such as: the average feeding schedule, grooming tools you need, three major health problems these Dogs face, shedding, which food is better and much, much more!

Get your own copy here for less than a trip to the vet and filled with invaluable Newfie information meant to last you and your new companion a lifetime.

Return from Newfoundland to Working Dog Group