The Newfoundland is a large, hairy dog with a great temperament. They are calm and do not require a great deal of exercise so they may even be kept in an apartment. Of course, a properly fenced in yard for exercise is preferable. The Newfoundland was bred for cold temperatures and icy water so hot climates will stress them. There are numerous cases where they have actually saved drowning people. They are generally good with children. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog. They are protective of their family but still mild mannered and generally not dangerous. Males may fight males but they are usually good with other pets.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Newfoundland is 27 to 29 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 130 to 150 pounds. The female ranges from 25 to 27 inches to the withers and 100 to 120 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Newfoundland is no exception. Be on the look out for Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), and sun-aortic stenosis (a hereditary heart condition). This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

*Grooming. The Newfoundland has a coarse, water resistant, flat, moderately long, outer coat with a dense and soft inner coat. Bathing will wash the protective oils from her coat so bathe rarely. Brush her coat every couple of days to remove shed and help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats and help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

*Life Span. The Newfoundland can live between 8 and 10 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. The Newfoundland comes from Newfoundland, Canada where they were bred to pull sleds, guard and hunt game. They are water dogs, having webbed feet and protective oily coats to protect them from the harsh environment. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1886.

Some Registries:

*Newfoundland Club of America

*UKC United Kennel Club

*NKC National Kennel Club

*CKC Continental Kennel Club

*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

*AKC American Kennel Club

*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale

*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club

*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain

*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club

*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 8 to 10 Newfoundland puppies

Category: Working

Terms To Describe: Gentle giant, sweet, devoted, courage, peaceful,

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Good watch dog.

They like cold climates.

Excellent temperament.

Has saved many drowning people.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

Poor guard dog.

They are heat sensitive.

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.