Breed Snapshot

The Newfoundland is a large, heavily boned, powerful dog, strong enough to pull a drowning man from rough seas. The dog's appearance is both huggable and impressive. When moving, a Newfoundland gives the impression of effortless power. A Newfoundland's soft expression reflects its benevolent and dignified temperament.

Size

Weight:
Males 130-150 pounds
Females 100-120 pounds

Height at Withers:
Males 28 inches
Females 26 inches

Overview

The Newfoundland Dog originated in the Canadian Province whose name he bears. Working alongside fishermen, he is renown as a water rescue dog. Their strength and size make Newfoundlands excellent draft dogs and they were used to haul fish to market. They love to be near their families, and are usually kept as house dogs. The Newfoundland Dog is a strong, active working dog with a sweet temperament and gentle demeanor.

Adult Newfoundlands

 

black newfoundland

Black Newfoundland

Gray Newfoundland

Gray Newfoundland

brown newfoundland

Brown
Newfoundland

White and Black or Landseer Newfoundland

White and Black Newfoundland

Coat

Medium length double coat

Colors:
Black, White and Black (Landseer),
Brown, and Gray

Requires regular grooming and bathing

Health

Lifespan: more than 50% of Newfoundlands live to be more than 10 years old.
Major Health Issues:
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
Cardiac Disorders (SAS, PDA, DCM)
Bloat
Cruciate Ligament Rupture
Allergies
Skin Problems
Laryngeal Paralysis

data from OFA Breed Health Survey 2022

 

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Additional Resources

More Ways to Connect

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Lifestages

Educational Newsletter for Puppy Families

Newfoundland puppies
Breeders Corner

Support for Preservation Breeders

Newfoundland Draft Dog
Working Dog News

Water and Draft Training, Tests and Judging

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NewfCare: Research and Rescue

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What to Know Before You Get A Newf

  • Even routine veterinary costs can be high for dogs as large as a Newfoundland.
    They do not do well if tethered and can scale or push through many fences.

  • Newfoundlands tend to be good with children and other dogs, but they do not always realize their own size.
    Wagging tails can knock over a toddler and playful paws can seriously injure a small dog.

  • Newfoundlands shed. A lot. Twice a year they shed even more.
    They require regular daily exercise and should be fit and muscular. Daily walking of 2-3 miles is typical. “weekend Warriors” are at risk for injury.

  • Newfoundlands drool. There is no way to genetically select for a dry mouth.

    They drool on your clothes, on your walls and on your sofa.

  • Newfs mature slowly. They are puppies until close to two years old and do not completely finish growing until three.
    Even though they are very large they are still babies for a long time.

  • Newfoundlands require regular grooming: daily and weekly brushing, regular baths and trimming of ears, chest, and feet.
    This is for hygiene and health and not just for “looks”.

Contact Us

Contact Breeder Referral

breederreferral@ncadogs.org

Ask Questions About the Breed

Contact the NCA

correspondence@ncadogs.org