Newfoundland
Description
The Newfoundland is a very large, strong and powerful dog with a rather regal, proud look about it. It has medium-sized pendant ears, and small dark eyes that lend it a deep and philosophical look. The Newfoundland has a long, wavy outer coat with a protective, oily undercoat. The colors of the coat include black, gray, brown or black with white markings. This breed also has webbed feet designed for swimming. The Newfoundland has a handsome pace and a muscular physique, giving him a proud and determined appearance.
Temperament
The Newfoundland has an excellent temperament, and is loyal, loving, brave and devoted. This breed is very attached to his owner and very protective, but will resort to warning off danger rather than launching in to an attack. The Newfoundland is excellent with children and good with other household pets. The temperament of the Newfoundland has been described as sweet, calm and gentle, making them ideal family pets. These dogs love to play and swim, and adore company and attention. They can prove a little difficult to train as they do have a very independent streak, but they do respond well to tone of voice so shouting is unnecessary during training, and in fact a calmer approach is recommended.
Height and Weight
The Newfoundland is a large dog, and the males can expect to reach around 27-29 inches in height, with females averaging around 25-27 inches. The weight of a male Newfoundland should reach around 130-150 pounds, with females lagging only slightly behind at 100-120 pounds.
Common Health and Behavioral Problems
As with other larger breeds, hip dysplasia can cause swelling and mobility problems in the breed. They are also prone to sub aortic stenosis, a heart condition, which means that their diet and weight should be carefully monitored to decrease the risks of this heart condition occurring.
Ideal Living Conditions
These dogs are sensitive to heat and are more suited to cooler temperatures, so you should bear this in mind when you decide to get a Newfoundland. These are big dogs and will always fare better with at least a small yard or garden in which to play and exercise. However, they will adapt to apartment life providing plenty of exercise is available.
Exercise Requirements
The Newfoundland not only loves to swim, but is designed to swim, so this will be a favorite form of exercise for him. Other than swimming, the Newfoundland may try and get out of activity, but should be encouraged to take regular, moderate exercise to improve health and fitness.
Diet and Nutrition
Puppy Newfoundland's need a very nutritious diet, as this helps to ensure the correct formation of bones and joints. An adult Newfoundland can be fed a normal diet, but this should be carefully monitored in terms of potions as excess weight gain to add to the risk of heart disease. Your Newfoundland should always have access to fresh, clean water.
Life Expectancy
The Newfoundland does not have a very long life expectancy compared to some other breeds, and the average lifespan of a healthy Newfoundland is around ten years or less.
Grooming Requirements
You should use a hard brush on the coat of the Newfoundland at least several times each week, and this can be complemented with occasional dry shampooing when required. Only bathe when really necessary, as this may strip the coat and skin of essential oils.
Origin
The Newfoundland originates from Canada, unsurprisingly from Newfoundland Island. They are reported to be descendants of the Tibetan Mastiff, which was brought to Newfoundland by French and English fishermen. The original Newfoundlands were bred to hunt and guard, but they soon became popular with fishermen who found them very useful in and around water. The webbed feet and oily skin of the Newfoundland meant that these dogs could stay in water for long periods of time, and were expert swimmers. In fact, the Newfoundland has been known to save many a life by jumping in to waters and rescuing drowning victims. The American Kennel Club first registered the breed in 1886.