Breed of the Month: The NewFoundland

Large, but oh-so-loveable, Newfoundlands are the gentle giants of the canine world

At first glance, you could be forgiven for mistaking a Newfoundland dog frolicking in the park for an escaped black bear – such is the sheer size of this gentle giant. Yet looks are where the similarities end, as Newfoundlands are quiet, loving and relaxed dogs that are noted for their gentle disposition.

Originating in Newfoundland, Canada, as working dogs for the fishermen of the area, their loyal temperament, muscled bodies and webbed feet made these powerful pooches the ultimate deck hands. It is believed that they are the product of cross-breeding between the St. Bernard and the St. John’s Water Dog, and they share many characteristics with these two breeds.

Newfoundlands are the perfect addition to your family

Appearance and possible problems
Physically, the Newfoundland is all raw strength. With a sturdy bone structure, stout legs, thick bull neck and massive head and snout, it is no surprise that an adult male can weigh in at over 80kg and measure over 70cm at the shoulder.

A thick, water-resistant coat (coming in a variety of colours, but most commonly black, brown or landseer, which consists of a brown or black head with a white and black body) makes the breed perfect for long stints swimming in the icy Atlantic waters where it originated, while the droopy jowls – which can sometimes cause excessive drooling – are actually well-formulated for maximising breathing while swimming through choppy water.

The question of whether the Newf (as it is commonly known in Australia) is right for you may depend on which part of the country you live in. The thickness of its coat makes the breed best suited to cooler climes such as Tasmania or anywhere with a degree of elevation. And like many large-breed dogs, Newfs are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia (as well as cystinuria, where the urethra becomes blocked, leading to the risk of kidney failure).

Gentle, heroic giants
The Newfoundland dog is noted for its benevolence, loyalty and gentle nature. While its size can instil initial uneasiness, one look at a Newfoundland interacting with children, other dogs and even smaller pets like cats and birds will attest to its status as a ‘gentle giant’.

Easy to train and with surprisingly low-maintenance exercise requirements (while needing regular walking, the Newfoundland’s size belies a propensity to laze around the house), one of the most interesting facts about these colossal canines is that they have a natural inclination for water-rescue.

There are reports of many instances in which  Newfoundlands have saved people from drowning, including a story about Tang, a brave pooch who was onboard the sinking Ethie off the coast of Newfoundland in 1919. Tang took a rope in his teeth and swam through treacherous seas until he finally reached land and was able to give the rope to a waiting rescue team. Tang saved the lives of 92 of the 93 stranded sailors, and was awarded a medal for bravery, which he wore for the rest of his life.

If you want a relaxed, easy-going pooch with a strong saviour instinct (especially with children) and don’t mind fronting for the mountain of food you’ll need to provide, this large and loveable dog could make the perfect addition to your family.

Images sourced from Wikipedia and soberandbrown.se