NewfoundlandCharacteristics, history, training and care

The FCI standard says the breed developed on the island of Newfoundland from local dogs and from the big black “bear dog” brought by the Vikings after the year 1100. With the European fishermen, other breeds helped to shape it, but its essential traits remained.

When the colonisation of the island began in 1610, the Newfoundland dog already largely had its present form and behaviour. These traits helped it withstand the extreme climate and the sea, hauling heavy loads on land or working as a lifeguard in the water.

How the breed developed

• After the year 1100 – The Vikings bring a big black dog to the island.
• 1610 – Colonisation begins; the breed already has its present form.
• 1766 – “Newfoundland dog” appears in Joseph Banks's journal, according to Wikipedia.
• Early 19th century – The dog Seaman accompanies the Lewis and Clark expedition.
• 4 August 1954 – The FCI recognises the breed.

Indicative rating: 5 stars means the highest level. It is based on the ratings the American Kennel Club gives the breed and on the FCI standard.

The standard describes it as a massive dog with a powerful body. The AKC says a male can reach 68 kg and 71 cm, and that it has a majestic head and a soft, soulful expression.

General appearance

The double coat is water-resistant: the topcoat is moderately long and straight, and the undercoat soft and dense, thicker in winter. The hair on the head, muzzle and ears is short and fine; the legs are feathered, and the tail is covered with long, dense hair.

The accepted colours are black, white and black, and brown. Black is the traditional colour. The white and black variety is of historical importance to the breed; the AKC says it is named after the painter Edwin Landseer, who made it famous.

The standard says its expression shows benevolence and softness. It is dignified, joyful and creative, known for its exceptional gentleness and serenity.

The AKC says the puppy is sociable, intelligent and curious, never shy or aggressive. Daily contact with people is absolutely essential, and early socialisation and puppy classes are recommended.

Tips for effective training

• Keep it close to the family. The AKC says it needs people every day.
• Go to puppy classes. As an adult, it will be very strong.
• Let it swim. It has natural lifesaving abilities.
• Keep a towel to hand. It drools a lot.

The AKC says it is a versatile dog, equally good on land and in water. It needs at least half an hour of moderate exercise a day. It should live indoors with its family, but it enjoys outdoor activities.

Tips for a balanced life

• It needs a house with a yard.
• In summer, keep it out of the heat.
• Dry its ears after swimming.

Coat and skin care

The AKC says the heavy coat should be brushed thoroughly at least once a week with a slicker brush and a long-toothed comb. During shedding, usually twice a year, brushing becomes daily.

Common health problems

The AKC says it is generally healthy, and responsible breeders screen their dogs for:

Other care

• Check the ears regularly for infections.
• Wipe its muzzle after meals.
• Trim the nails regularly.

The AKC says some dogs gain weight easily, so calories and weight should be watched.

Tips for a healthy diet

The table gives a starting estimate, calculated with the formula from the Merck Veterinary Manual. The first two calorie columns show the calories per day for a healthy adult dog. The last column shows what this means in dry food with 3,500–4,000 kcal per kilogram.

• Split the food into two meals a day to reduce the risk of bloat.
• Do not let it run right after a meal.
• Puppies need growth food suited to very large breeds.

Foods to avoid

Some human foods are dangerous for dogs: chocolate, coffee, grapes and raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol (a sweetener used in chewing gum), macadamia nuts and alcohol.

Physical and emotional maturity

In dogs, sexual maturity usually comes between 6 and 12 months, but in large breeds it can be delayed until about two years. Very large breeds become adults only at around 2 years.

Mating and pregnancy

Pregnancy lasts about 63 days, counted from ovulation. Mating a female on her first heat is not recommended. The FCI standard requires that only healthy dogs of typical breed appearance are used for breeding.

Caring for the puppies

In large breeds, a litter has around 7 puppies on average. The puppies grow very fast, so they need growth food suited to large breeds. Socialisation starts in the first weeks.

• A born lifeguard. The AKC says it has natural water rescue abilities.
• Seaman, the explorer. Wikipedia says he accompanied the Lewis and Clark expedition to the Pacific.
• Nana from “Peter Pan”. J. M. Barrie's dog inspired Nana.
• Byron's dog. Lord Byron wrote “Epitaph to a Dog” for his dog, Boatswain.
• Centuries old. It already had its present form in 1610.

Boatswain and Lord Byron

Wikipedia says the poet Lord Byron had a Newfoundland called Boatswain, to whom he dedicated the poem “Epitaph to a Dog” and a monument at Newstead Abbey.

Nana from “Peter Pan”

Wikipedia says Luath, J. M. Barrie's Landseer Newfoundland, inspired Nana, the Darling children's nursemaid in “Peter Pan”.

What is the difference between the Newfoundland and the Landseer?

In continental Europe, the Landseer is a separate, taller breed; in other countries, white and black is simply one of the Newfoundland's colours.

How big does it get?

Males average 71 cm and ~68 kg; females 66 cm and ~54 kg.

Can it swim?

Yes. It is a water dog with natural rescue abilities.

How long does it live?

The AKC gives 9–10 years.