Dog breed · Working
Newfoundland
A powerful water-rescue dog with a famously gentle disposition and a heroic swimming ability.
Giant9–11 yearsNewfoundland, CanadaNeeds more space
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Working
- Origin
- Newfoundland, Canada
- Size
- Giant
- Weight
- 45–70 kg (100–155 lb)
- Height
- 63–74 cm
- Lifespan
- 9–11 years
- Coat
- Heavy, oily, water-resistant double coat
- Temperament
- SweetPatientCalmDevoted
History
Worked alongside fishermen hauling nets and pulling carts, and used historically for water rescue.
Appearance
Massive and heavily coated, usually black, brown, grey or Landseer black-and-white.
Exercise and activity
Moderate daily walks plus swimming, which suits the body far better than running.
Care and grooming
Brush two or three times weekly, dry thoroughly after swimming and manage drool.
Health considerations
- Subvalvular aortic stenosis
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Cystinuria
- Bloat
- Heat intolerance