Newfoundland
Updated December 2, 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
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
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.
Grooming
Newfoundlands have a thick, double coat that requires thorough brushing at least 2-3 times a week to prevent matting and remove loose hair. A slicker brush and a long-toothed comb are essential tools.
They are heavy shedders, especially during seasonal changes in spring and fall, when daily brushing is necessary to manage the volume of hair.
Bathing should be done as needed, typically every 1-2 months. Over-bathing can strip the coat of its natural, water-resistant oils. Due to their size, professional grooming may be a practical option.
Newfoundlands are prone to drooling, so keeping a 'drool rag' handy is advisable. Regular cleaning of their ears is also important to prevent infections.
Training
Newfoundlands are intelligent and eager to please, but can be independent. Training should begin early, especially socialization and obedience, to ensure they grow into well-behaved companions.
Positive reinforcement techniques, using treats and praise, work best. Their sensitive nature does not respond well to harsh training methods.
Given their strength, teaching them not to pull on the leash is a priority from a young age. Their natural working ability makes them excel in activities like carting and water rescue trials.
Diet
A high-quality diet formulated for giant-breed dogs is essential to support their bone and joint health. Food should be appropriate for their life stage (puppy, adult, senior).
Puppies grow rapidly and require a specific diet to prevent developmental orthopedic diseases. Control portions and avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity, which puts extra strain on their joints.
Due to the risk of bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), it's best to feed them two or three smaller meals per day rather than one large one, and avoid vigorous exercise around mealtimes.
Exercise
Despite their size, Newfoundlands have moderate exercise needs, typically requiring 30-60 minutes of activity per day. They are not built for long-distance running but enjoy daily walks and playtime.
Swimming is the ideal exercise for a Newfoundland. It allows them to exert themselves with minimal impact on their joints.
They are sensitive to heat and should not be exercised in hot weather. Always provide a cool, shady place for them to rest. Mental stimulation through puzzle toys and training is as important as physical exercise.
Environment
Newfoundlands are not suited for apartment living. They need a home with ample space, preferably with a securely fenced yard, to accommodate their large size.
They thrive in cooler climates and can struggle in the heat. Access to air conditioning during warm months is crucial.
This breed needs to live indoors with their family. They are highly social and will become unhappy and destructive if left isolated in a backyard.
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
Are Newfoundlands good family dogs?
Yes, they are considered one of the best family dogs due to their extraordinary patience, gentleness, and protective nature with children.
How much do Newfoundlands drool and shed?
Newfoundlands are very heavy shedders year-round and also drool significantly. Owners should be prepared for hair and slobber.
How much exercise do Newfoundlands need?
They need about 30-60 minutes of moderate, low-impact exercise daily. Swimming is an excellent activity for them.
Are Newfoundlands good swimmers?
Yes, they are exceptional swimmers, thanks to their muscular build, webbed feet, and water-resistant double coat.
Do Newfoundlands tolerate heat well?
No, their heavy coat makes them very sensitive to heat. They are best suited for cooler climates and need protection from overheating.
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.
Looking for a Newfoundland?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.