Newfoundland Dog Breed Information

Group

Working

Weight

64-69 kg

Height

69-74 cm

Lifespan

8-12 years

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About the Newfoundland

Reviewed by:

Dr. Liza Cahn

Veterinarian

J. M. Barrie’s Peter Pan introduced us to Nana, one of the most famous canine figures in modern English language fiction, often associated with the Newfoundland breed (though some argue for other possibilities). You may be wondering if your Newfoundland puppy will be as loyal and patient as Nana was to her charges.

Wonder no more and find out everything you need to know about one of the friendliest dog breeds around, what Newfoundland puppies, adults, and senior dogs need to thrive, and how to prevent and treat potentially life-threatening conditions.

What is the history & origin of the Newfoundland?

The origin and history of the Newfoundland breed trace back to the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador in Eastern Canada. While the origin is slightly murky, these gentle giants were likely a mix of the Pyrenean Mountain Dogs brought to Newfoundland by European fisherman in the 1800s, and the local dogs. The resulting Newfoundland was a large, powerful dog with an affinity for water and an ability to perform heavy labor, such as hauling fishing nets and carts filled with fresh catch. A thick, oily, double coat and webbed feet aided in these tasks. Over time, the breed’s gentle disposition and remarkable swimming ability have made it not only a working dog but also a beloved family companion.

The breed shares characteristics with other water dogs, such as the Irish Water Spaniel and the Labrador Retriever. A related breed, known as the Lesser Newfoundland or St. John’s Labrador, was also developed in the region, and is an ancestor of modern retrievers.

The Landseer is another dog breed that’s closely related to the Newfoundland. Appearance-wise, the Landseer is similar to the Newfoundland, but it is most easily recognized by its distinct black-and-white coat.

What is a Newfoundland breed?

Affectionately known as Newfies, these water dogs were originally meant to assist fishermen in Eastern Canada. They were bred for excellent swimming skills and the strength of a pack-horse both in the water and on land!

In Australia, Newfoundlands are classified as part of the Utility Group. In other countries, including the United States, they are part of the Working Group. Both classifications reflect the Newfoundland’s history and ability to perform various tasks. Whether categorized as a working or utility breed, the Newfoundland’s combination of strength, intelligence, and gentle temperament makes them a versatile and beloved dog, both as a working partner and a family companion.

Your Newfoundland puppy will grow into a large and gentle companion full of energy. This breed is incredibly strong, and a full-size Newfie can haul heavy fishing nets or a cart filled to the brim with a fresh catch!

Who is a Newfoundland best for?

You don’t have to be an avid fisherman or sailing enthusiast to adopt a Newfie! However, this breed is best for active, energetic individuals or families. Newfs need and enjoy high-energy activities, mental stimulation, swimming, and daily exercise. They also make excellent companions for cuddling on the couch.

While dog fur and drool come with the territory, Newfoundland dogs are docile, playful, and wonderfully well-behaved with children, despite their enormous size and intimidating appearance! But these giants also need adequate space.

Due to their thick double coat and large size, Newfies may not do well in hot climates, and often find it easier to exercise in the water than on land.

Newfoundland Grooming & Shedding

Grooming your Newfie requires time, effort, and skill. Not too much to ask from one of the most loyal and empathetic dog breeds in the world. Their thick double coat is oily and water resistant, and requires weekly brushing to avoid mats and tangles. Many owners elect to take their Newfies to a professional groomer, but you can also groom your pup at home using the guidelines below:

Brushing: Start by brushing the coat with a pin brush or a rake designed for long-haired breeds. Do this at least once a week to remove loose hairs, dirt, and prevent mats and tangles. Be gentle, especially if you encounter any snags.
De-shedding: During shedding seasons, you may need to increase the frequency of brushing and use a de-shedding tool to remove the loose undercoat.
Bathing: Bathe your Newfoundland as needed, typically every six to eight weeks, or more often if they get dirty. Use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo to avoid irritation. Wet the coat thoroughly and apply the shampoo, working it through the coat. Rinse thoroughly to remove all shampoo residue.
Conditioning: Consider using a conditioner formulated for dogs to keep the coat soft and manageable. Follow the instructions on the product and rinse well.
Ear Cleaning: Check and clean your dog’s ears regularly with a vet-approved ear cleaner. Use a soft cloth or cotton ball, and never insert anything into the ear canal.
Nail Trimming: Trim your Newfie’s nails regularly using appropriate dog nail clippers. If you’re unsure how to do this, seek guidance from a vet or professional groomer to avoid injury.
Teeth Cleaning: Regular dental care is vital for overall health. Brush your dog’s teeth several times a week using a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste.
Trimming Hair Around Paws and Other Areas: You may need to trim the hair between the paw pads and around the ears, hindquarters, and other areas to prevent matting and keep your dog comfortable.
Avoid Shaving: Shaving dog with a double coat may permanently change the fur texture and appearance.
Check for Signs of Health Problems: As you groom, keep an eye out for any signs of skin irritation, lumps, or other issues that might require veterinary attention.

Although Newfs are very relaxed dogs, it is best to start grooming your best friend from puppyhood to get them used to it.

Do Newfoundlands bark a lot?

Unlike other dogs, this breed is not big on barking. They bark like any other dog to communicate and express themselves. This large breed generally has a deep, loud bark – an excellent trait to alert their humans to danger or a disturbance in their territory!

What is the average weight & height of a Newfoundland dog?

A mature adult female Newfoundland dog measures about 63 to 69 cm at the shoulders. A male Newfoundland can reach a height of 69 to 74 cm.

A healthy weight for a mature adult Newf is between 50 and 54.5 kg in females. Male Newfoundland dogs can weigh between 64 and 69 kg.

It’s essential to keep your dog within the optimal weight range to avoid strain on their bones and joints.

Are Newfoundlands easy to train?

Newfies are energetic and active. Their intelligence and willingness to please make them responsive to training, although they may show a somewhat stubborn streak at times. Don’t despair; it is possible for you to train your Newfie to respond to basic commands and even perform brilliantly at dog sports like obedience and water rescue. Their disposition also lends itself well to roles such as therapy and assistance work, further showcasing their versatile and compassionate nature.

Your furry friend should have at least 30 minutes of play or a walk every day. Like many large breeds, Newf puppies take several years to fully mature – while your puppy is growing, avoid intense activities that may strain their bones and joints.

How do Newfoundlands behave? A look at their temperament and personality

The temperament of the Newfoundland dog is often described as gentle, patient, and sweet-natured. Newfoundlands are often very empathetic, tuning into their family’s emotions and providing comfort. They are loyal and protective without being overly aggressive.

While they are fantastic with children, just like other breeds, Newfs can become excited and play too roughly! It’s never a good idea to leave young children alone with your pup, despite the casting of Nana as a nurse.

Does the Newfoundland have any common health issues?

Like many large dog breeds, Newfies can be susceptible to certain health conditions. Responsible breeding practices can help reduce the risk of genetic conditions, so if you’re considering adopting a Newfoundland, ensure that the breeder performs appropriate health screenings. Regular veterinary care, a proper diet, and appropriate exercise can also contribute to a Newfie’s overall health and well-being.

Common health issues in Newfoundlands include:

Orthopedic Conditions: Newfoundlands are prone to joint issues due to their size, which can lead to pain and mobility challenges.
Hip Dysplasia: A hereditary condition common in large breeds where the hip joint malforms, leading to arthritis and mobility difficulties. Symptoms include limping and reluctance to exercise.
Elbow Dysplasia: This involves developmental abnormalities in the elbow joint that can cause lameness and chronic pain, requiring varying degrees of treatment from management to surgery.
Cardiac Conditions: Newfoundlands are susceptible to heart issues like Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis (SAS) and Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), which can lead to lethargy and breathing difficulties. Early detection through veterinary exams is crucial for management.
Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV or Bloat): A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists, requiring immediate veterinary intervention. Preventive measures include feeding smaller meals and avoiding vigorous exercise after eating.
Cystinuria: is a hereditary condition in Newfoundlands that impairs kidney function, leading to painful urinary stones and requiring special dietary management.

Take your Newf to the vet if you spot any of these symptoms as they may need surgery urgently:

anxiety
restlessness
discomfort
drooling
distending abdomen
nonproductive retching

What is the lifespan of a Newfoundland?

The average lifespan of a Newfoundland is typically between 8 and 12 years. Some Newfoundlands can live longer, particularly with proper care, a healthy diet, regular veterinary check-ups, and an overall supportive living environment. Large breeds like the Newfoundland often have shorter lifespans compared to smaller dog breeds, and they may be more prone to certain health issues that can affect longevity.

How much does a Newfoundland need to be fed?

You should work together with your trusted veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to decide the most appropriate food for your pup. These friendly dogs require a lot of food to maintain their size and strength without straining their bones and joints.

When choosing a diet, look for WSAVA and AAFCO seals of approval, indicating that the food is complete and balanced. It is also important to feed a large or giant breed puppy food to your growing Newf. As this breed is already prone to heart disease, it is especially critical to avoid grain-free diets, which have recently been linked to dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs.

If your pup needs some treats as an incentive for exercise, avoid the situation in which Monty’s humans find themselves! Human junk food may turn your bestie into a couch potato.

How much can you expect to pay for a Newfoundland in Australia?

The purchase price will vary from breeder to breeder but generally ranges from $1500-$4000. It’s essential to recognize that the initial cost of the puppy is only a small part of the total expenses. Ongoing costs for food, veterinary care, grooming, training, and other necessities should also be factored into your budget.

Adopting a dog from a shelter or breed-specific rescue is also an excellent way to help animals in need.

If you find your puppy via a specialised breeder or a national breed club, make sure they are a registered and breed-specific. Each dog breed is unique, and you want to make sure that you find a breeder who follows responsible breeding practices and utilizes appropriate testing and veterinary care to contribute to the health and temperament of their puppies. In Newfs this includes the following:

Hip Dysplasia Screening: This involves X-rays to evaluate the dog’s hip joints for any signs of dysplasia.
Elbow Dysplasia Screening: Similar to hip screening, this involves X-rays to assess the elbows for dysplasia.
Cardiac Screening: This includes checking for Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis (SAS) and Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM). It can involve a veterinary cardiologist performing an echocardiogram.
Cystinuria Testing: This genetic test screens for a defect that can cause kidney and bladder stones.
Eye Examinations: Regular eye exams by a certified veterinary ophthalmologist can detect genetic eye conditions.
Thyroid Testing: This test ensures that the thyroid gland is functioning properly, as some Newfoundlands can be prone to thyroid issues.

Newfoundland FAQs

Can Newfoundland dogs live in hot weather?

Your Newfie can live in hot weather like we have here in Australia, but you should provide plenty of cool water to drink and play in daily, and shady areas to rest. Thick fur coats and large size can make these gentle giants prone to overheating, so avoid strenuous activities during the heat of the day and watch for signs of heat stroke.

Can Newfoundland dogs be left alone?

Just like other dogs, Newfies shouldn’t be left alone for long periods of time. They are a sociable, friendly breed and need plenty of attention, enrichment, and stimulation.

When they are fully grown, Newfies enjoy plenty of vigorous exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization after adopting your new furball is also critical.

What is the difference between a Landseer and a Newfoundland?

Appearance-wise, the Landseer is similar to the Newfoundland, but it is most easily recognized by its distinct black-and-white coat. While some consider the Landseer to be a color variant of the Newfoundland, others recognize it as a separate breed entirely, depending on the canine organization and country.

How do you tell if a dog is a Newfoundland?

According to the Australian National Kennel Council’s Breed Standard of the Newfoundland, you can spot a typical breed specimen by its impressive “strength and great activity.”

Your typical Newfoundland dog has a broad head with a well-developed occipital bone. He also has a strong neck, a broad back, and strong hindquarters. A Newfoundland’s coat should be very dense – hence the long grooming sessions – and flat, with a coarse, oily feel.