Newfoundland

Where Are Newfoundlands From?

Newfoundlands developed on the island of Newfoundland, Canada, where they worked alongside fishermen hauling heavy nets, carrying boat lines to shore through surf, and pulling carts loaded with fish. Their webbed feet, water-resistant double coat, and natural swimming ability made them indispensable to the island’s fishing economy. Newfoundlands are credited with numerous documented water rescues — they instinctively swim toward people in distress and tow them to safety, a behavior so reliable that they’re still used by water rescue organizations across Europe.

What Is It Like Living With a Newfoundland?

Newfoundlands are the gentle giants of the dog world, and that reputation is entirely earned. Their temperament is patient, calm, and sweet in a way that feels almost unreal for a 130-pound dog. They’re remarkably intuitive with children, positioning themselves as barriers between kids and stairs, water, or strangers. Newfoundland dogs don’t just tolerate children; they genuinely watch over them. This nanny instinct is so consistent that the breed inspired Nana, the dog in Peter Pan.

How Much Exercise Does a Newfoundland Need?

Despite their massive size, Newfoundlands don’t need extreme exercise. Forty-five to 60 minutes of moderate daily activity suits them well. Swimming is their supreme joy — their powerful stroke and natural buoyancy make them more graceful in water than on land. Long, intense runs should be avoided, especially in warm weather, as their size and heavy coat make overheating a real risk. Puppies need very controlled exercise to protect growing joints.

How Often Do You Need to Groom a Newfoundland?

The thick double coat sheds heavily and requires thorough brushing three to four times weekly. Professional grooming every six to eight weeks helps manage the volume. Drool is a constant companion with a Newfoundland — keep towels handy near water bowls and after meals. Health concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, subaortic stenosis (a serious heart condition), cystinuria (bladder stones), bloat, and cruciate ligament tears due to their weight. Average lifespan is 8–10 years.

Are Newfoundlands Healthy?

Newfoundlands are ideal for families with children (especially near water), patient owners with space, and people who want a calm, devoted giant. They’re not suited for apartment living, hot climates, people who dislike drool, or anyone on a tight budget (feeding, grooming, and vet costs for a 130-pound dog are substantial). The surprising fact: a Newfoundland is credited with saving Napoleon Bonaparte’s life. When Napoleon fell overboard during his escape from Elba in 1815, a fisherman’s Newfoundland jumped in and kept him afloat until he was rescued.

Common Mistakes New Owners Make

• 1Underestimating the drool volume. Newfoundlands drool constantly and profusely — especially around food, water, and excitement. Walls, floors, guests, and clothing will all be coated. This isn't occasional; it's a baseline reality of life with this breed.
• 2Not planning for the heat. Newfoundlands have a dense double coat built for cold North Atlantic water. They struggle significantly in heat — exercise must happen in cool early morning or evening hours, and they need cool resting spaces.
• 3Ignoring subvalvular aortic stenosis (SAS) screening. SAS is a serious heart defect prevalent in Newfoundlands. Reputable breeders cardiac-screen breeding stock — ask for documentation from a board-certified cardiologist, not just a vet listen.
• 4Assuming gentle temperament means no training needed. A 130–150 lb dog without leash manners and basic obedience cannot be safely managed. Obedience training from puppyhood is essential regardless of how gentle the dog is.