This gentle and easy-going working breed was first discovered in Newfoundland, Canada. They were primarily used to assist fishermen with their nets, as well as being used to haul wood from the forest. Newfoundlands are quite adept at swimming due to their expansive lung capacity, thick coat, and webbed feet. They have often been used in search and rescue efforts in the cold Atlantic waters due to those traits. The Newfoundland are a large breed and are typically 25-28 inches tall, commonly weigh 100-180 pounds, and generally have a lifespan of 8-10 years. They are not the best choice for apartment living due to their size but also because they are a working breed, and need a job to do. The breed does need about an hour of exercise a day as well as mental stimulation. When the Newfoundland is a pup it is extremely important not to let them play and run on hard surfaces until they are about two years old and their joints are fully developed. Therefore swimming is ideal for them, because they will get the necessary exercise without causing harm to their joints. Though they are a mellow and playful breed, early training and socialization would be helpful to avoid any unforeseen problems due to their size. Children love this cuddly pup but don’t realize how big they really are, and a child can be injured if they are not shown the correct way to handle the breed. This sweet, lovable teddy bear adores children, and people in general, and dislikes being left alone. Due to their calm temperament they make excellent therapy dogs, and are easy to train. The Newfoundland’s origins are from Canada, so a hot, balmy climate would not be beneficial to them. They do have a thick double coat, the outer one is smooth and water resistant, while the inner one is silky and dense. Due to this type of coat they shed a lot and require brushing two to three times a week, even more often in spring and autumn. This breed does get dirty easily due to the type of coat they have so bathing every month or two would be indispensable. It is also important to brush their teeth two to three times a week, as well as trim their nails once every month. Checking their eyes and ears weekly would also be important, as you perform an overall examination of the pup. With routine veterinary visits, love, and care, your Newfoundland should live a long and happy life.
Each dog breed can be prone to develop certain diseases or conditions, be sure to research your specific breed before making a purchase to ensure you´re prepared for any challenges that may arise. This information is only a generalization and we make no guarantees on any breed related to personality, appearance, or typical health characteristics.