Newfoundland
Quick Summary
Gentle giants ideal for patient families with space. Key traits include water rescue abilities and child-friendly nature. Consider size requirements and grooming demands.
Contents
Weight Range
100-150 lbs
♂ Male: 130-150 lbs
♀ Female: 100-120 lbs
Height Range
66-71 inches
♂ Male: 28-28"
♀ Female: 28-28"
Life Expectancy
9-10 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #84
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Working Group
Originally bred for Developed in Newfoundland during the 1700s, these powerful dogs served as water rescue dogs and fishing assistants, helping fishermen haul nets and pull carts of fish to market
Popularity
#40
Very popular breed choice
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 28"-28" |
| Female Height | 28"-28" |
| Male Weight | 130-150 lbs |
| Female Weight | 100-120 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 5/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $2000-4000 for purchase. Monthly expenses around $200-300 for food and basic care. Annual medical costs average $800-1200, with potential for higher emergency expenses.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Newfoundlands exhibit remarkable patience and gentleness despite their size. Their moderate energy levels and strong desire to please make them excellent family companions. Natural guardians who rarely show aggression.
Social Needs
Highly social dogs requiring constant family interaction. They bond deeply with their families and get along well with other pets. Can experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
Breed Overview
Majestic and powerful, Newfoundlands are gentle giants with thick black, brown, or white-and-black coats. Their massive heads, deep chest, and muscular build reflect their water rescue heritage. Standing up to 28 inches tall with males weighing up to 150 pounds, they possess webbed feet and a water-resistant double coat. Their calm, patient demeanor and soft expression embody their reputation as natural caregivers.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent with children
- ✓ Gentle and patient
- ✓ Strong swimming abilities
- ✓ Loyal and protective
- ✓ Good therapy dogs
Cons
- ✗ Heavy shedding
- ✗ Excessive drooling
- ✗ Expensive to maintain
- ✗ Need lots of space
- ✗ Short lifespan
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Sweet, Patient, Devoted |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Easy Training |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Newfoundlands require 45-60 minutes of daily exercise, including swimming when possible. Moderate intensity activities like walking and water work are ideal. Their exercise should be structured to avoid overheating, especially in warm weather.
Diet & Nutrition
Adult Newfoundlands require 4-5 cups of high-quality food daily, divided into 2-3 meals. Special attention needed for weight management and joint health supplements. Large-breed specific formulas recommended.
Feed 4-5 cups of premium large-breed food daily, split into 2-3 meals. Monitor calorie intake to prevent obesity. Include joint supplements and consider wet food mix for hydration. Avoid rapid growth in puppies.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
These giants need substantial indoor space with access to cool areas. Ideal for homes with yards, they can adapt to large apartments if properly exercised. They thrive best in cooler climates.
Requires minimum 500 square feet of indoor living space. Access to outdoor areas essential. Adaptable to various homes if exercise needs are met, but flourish in properties with water access.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Maritime heritage shaped these powerful dogs in Newfoundland, Canada. Working alongside fishermen, they developed their renowned water rescue abilities and strength for hauling fishing nets and cargo through icy waters.
Historical Purpose
Developed in Newfoundland during the 1700s, these powerful dogs served as water rescue dogs and fishing assistants, helping fishermen haul nets and pull carts of fish to market.
Fun Fact
Newfoundlands have a special swimming stroke named after them - the 'Newfie paddle'!
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular grooming essential for coat maintenance. Need controlled exercise to protect developing joints. Must monitor for signs of heat sensitivity and heart issues.