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Newfoundland

Large Breed

Newfoundlands are huge, impressive dogs, powerful and well-muscled, yet soft and benevolent. Amongst the breeds many talents are watch-dogging, guarding, water rescue, carting, weight pulling and competitive obedience.

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Breed standards

Country of origin

Canada

Weight

Males 68kg / 150lbs;

Females 54kg / 120lbs (standards may vary)

Height

Males 71cm / 28in;

Females 66cm / 26in (standards may vary)

Coat

Medium long coat

Markings

Black, white and black, brown.

Black: a tinge of sunburn is permissible in black, and white markings on chest, toes and/or tip of tail are permissible.

White and black: black head with white blaze extending onto muzzle and black saddle is preferable; remaining parts should be white.

Brown: white markings on the chest and/or tip of tail are permissible.

Lifespan

Under 10 years

The Newfoundland is gentle, calm and of a sweet temperament. Loyal and trustworthy, he is a devoted companion. Patient, playful and loving of children, the Newfoundland is an exceptional companion dog and family pet.

Temperament

The Newfoundland is noble and dignified, and of a sweet temperament. He is calm and gentle yet very joyful and creative. Very brave and intelligent, the Newfoundland, though not essentially a guard dog, can be protective of his family to whom he is devoted. The Newfoundland is a very sociable dog, sensitive, patient and playful with children. Positive early training and socialisation is needed with this breed.

  • Poor
    Children
    Good
  • Very
    Combativeness
    Not very
  • Very
    Dominance
    Not very
  • Not very
    Friendliness
    Good
  • Not very
    Independence
    Very
  • Loud
    Noise
    Quiet
  • Not very
    Trainability
    Very

Good to know

Newfoundlands are magnificent large breed dogs, broad, strong and well-muscled, yet elegant. They are covered in a superb water resistant coat.

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  • Makes a wonderful family pet and is excellent with children
  • Extremely versatile and intelligent
  • Excels as a guardian and watchdog
  • A good dog for novice owners
  • Does not require trimming or stripping
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  • Regular grooming is needed
  • A seasonally heavy shedder
  • Requires sufficient daily physical activity and mental stimulation
  • Prone to hip dysplasia and hereditary heart disease