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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.
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.
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PoorChildrenGood
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VeryCombativenessNot very
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VeryDominanceNot very
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Not veryFriendlinessGood
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Not veryIndependenceVery
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LoudNoiseQuiet
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Not veryTrainabilityVery
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.
- 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
- Regular grooming is needed
- A seasonally heavy shedder
- Requires sufficient daily physical activity and mental stimulation
- Prone to hip dysplasia and hereditary heart disease