Newfoundland
Updated August 11, 2025
Newfoundland
Updated August 11, 2025
The Newfoundland is a large, strong working dog known for its sweet disposition and natural love of children. They are excellent swimmers and have historically worked with fishermen, performing water rescues. Their patience, loyalty, and courage make them an exceptional family companion.
Gentle, Sweet-Tempered, Trainable, Patient, Courageous
100-150 pounds
25-29 inches
9-10 years
Black, Brown, Gray, White and Black (Landseer)
At a Glance
Maintenance Level
Friendliness
Energy Level
Good with Kids
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About Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a large, strong working dog known for its sweet disposition and natural love of children. They are excellent swimmers and have historically worked with fishermen, performing water rescues. Their patience, loyalty, and courage make them an exceptional family companion.
What Makes Newfoundlands Special
The Newfoundland is a true gentle giant, combining immense strength with a sweet, placid nature. They are the epitome of a family dog—patient, devoted, and protective.
Originally a working dog for Canadian fishermen, the Newfie is a master swimmer, equipped with a waterproof coat and webbed feet. This heritage is reflected in their love for water and courageous, life-saving instincts. They are more than a pet; they are a loyal and loving member of the family.
Newfoundland History & Origin
The Newfoundland dog originated on the island of Newfoundland in Canada, where they were the indispensable companions of fishermen. They were bred to haul nets, pull carts, and, most famously, rescue people from the icy waters of the North Atlantic.
The breed is believed to have descended from native dogs and the 'great bear dogs' brought to the island by Basque fishermen in the 17th century.
There were two original types: the Greater Newfoundland (the modern breed) and the Lesser Newfoundland or St. John's Water Dog, which became a foundational breed for modern retrievers.
Their life-saving instincts are legendary. One famous Newfoundland named Seaman accompanied the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
The Hon. Harold Macpherson established a kennel in the early 20th century to help preserve the breed from extinction. Today, the Newfoundland is a beloved companion worldwide.
The cost of a Newfoundland puppy from a reputable breeder typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,500. Adopting from a rescue is a less expensive option and provides a home to a dog in need.
Newfoundland Characteristics
Individual Variation
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Newfoundland Appearance
The Newfoundland possesses a look of dignity and benevolence. They are massive dogs, with a heavy bone structure and a powerful, muscular build.
Their expression is soft and soulful, reflecting their gentle temperament. Their magnificent double coat can be black, brown, gray, or the distinctive white and black 'Landseer' pattern.
Physical Features
Ears
The Newfoundland's ears are relatively small and triangular with rounded tips. They are set on the side of the head and lie flat.
Eyes
Their eyes are dark brown, small, and deep-set, conveying a gentle and friendly expression.
Nose
The nose is large and black, except on brown and gray dogs where it corresponds with the coat color.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
Newfoundlands have a medium-length double coat. The outer coat is coarse and flat, while the undercoat is soft and very dense, providing excellent insulation.
Coat Color
The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes four colors: solid black, brown, gray, and the white and black Landseer pattern. Black is the most common color.
Tail
Their tail is strong and broad, acting like a ship's rudder when they swim. It hangs down, except when the dog is excited.
Newfoundland Temperament
The Newfoundland's hallmark is its sweet, gentle, and docile disposition. They are renowned for their profound patience and trustworthiness, especially with children, earning them the nickname 'nanny dog'.
Despite their imposing size, they are remarkably calm and easygoing. Their devotion to family is unparalleled, and they thrive on companionship. While they are friendly towards strangers and other pets, their deep, imposing bark and massive size make them a natural deterrent to intruders.
This breed was born to work alongside humans. Their history as fishermen's helpers and water rescue dogs instilled in them a courageous and helpful nature. They are intelligent and aim to please, though their sheer size means early training and socialization are crucial to manage them effectively as adults.
Newfoundlands are known for their love of water and swimming, a trait stemming from their webbed feet and water-resistant coat. They are happiest when they have a job to do, whether it's a game of fetch, a swim in the lake, or simply being a devoted member of the family.
Be prepared for some mess; their love for water, combined with significant drooling and shedding, means they are not the ideal breed for the fastidious housekeeper. However, their loving and noble character more than makes up for the extra cleanup.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Newfoundlands have a lifespan of 9-10 years. As a giant breed, they are prone to several significant health conditions. Prospective owners should be aware of these issues and work with a reputable breeder who screens for genetic problems.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular vet checkups, a proper diet to maintain a healthy weight, joint supplements, and screening for genetic conditions are key to a healthy life.
How to Care for a Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are loving companions but come with significant care requirements. Their giant size, heavy coat, and potential for health issues mean they need a committed owner who can provide for their needs, including regular grooming, moderate exercise, and ample living space.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
Requires a large home with a fenced yard; not for apartments.
Climate Adaptability
Thrives in cool weather and is sensitive to heat.
Apartment Living
Not recommended due to their giant size, exercise needs, and shedding.
Best Suited For
Ideal for active families with the space and resources to care for a giant breed.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Focus on controlled growth with giant-breed puppy food, early socialization, and consistent training.
Senior Care
Adjust exercise to be low-impact, provide joint supplements, and monitor for age-related health issues.
First-Time Owner Tips
Can be a good choice for first-time owners who are prepared for the challenges of a giant breed, including drool, shedding, and size.