Newfoundland
Can live in small spaces Is apartment friendly Can live in hot weather Can live in cold weather Is good for seniors or low-activity homes Does shed a lot Does drool a lot Is good with children Is good with other dogs Is good with cats Is affectionate with family Is good for first-time owners Is protective or territorial Is prone to separation anxiety Is aggressive Is prone to allergies Can be used as a therapy or service dog Is recognized by major kennel clubs All purpose water dog, fishing aid Apartment-friendly Gentle Great with kids High energy dog Loves hot weather Sheds a lot Sweet-Tempered Trainable Working

Newfoundland

Height 26 - 28 in (66 - 71 cm)
Weight 100 - 150 lbs (45 - 68 kg)
Lifespan 8 - 10 years
Origin Unknown

Is a Newfoundland Right For You?

Answer these quick questions to find out:


Is Newfoundland prone to allergies?

Is Newfoundland a hypoallergenic breed?

What are common health issues in Newfoundland?

How much does it cost to raise a Newfoundland annually?

Does Newfoundland drool a lot?

Breed Characteristics

The consensus from the sources suggests that Newfoundlands generally require around 1 hour of exercise daily, including walks, free play, and swimming. While individual needs may vary, the majority of sources recommend at least 30 minutes to 1 hour of moderate exercise per day for this breed.

How much exercise does Newfoundland need?

LowHigh
The consensus suggests that Newfoundland dogs are relatively easy to train, especially if started at a young age. However, they can be stubborn at times, requiring patience and effort in training.

Is Newfoundland easy to train?

LowHigh
The consensus from the sources indicates that Newfoundland dogs require regular grooming, at least weekly, to prevent mats and keep their coat healthy. While professional grooming may be needed every 6-8 weeks, regular at-home grooming is necessary to maintain their coat. Some sources even suggest daily or almost daily brushing to keep the coat and skin healthy.

How much grooming does Newfoundland need?

LowHigh
The consensus from the sources indicates that Newfoundland dogs are highly intelligent, excel in training, comprehend complex commands, and are known for their cognitive abilities. They are described as excellent students, fast learners, and have a strong work ethic.

How intelligent is Newfoundland?

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Most sources indicate that Newfoundlands do not bark excessively, with some mentioning that they bark only when necessary or in specific situations. While some individuals may bark more, the overall consensus suggests a lower tendency for excessive barking.

Does Newfoundland bark a lot?

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The consensus from the sources indicates that while Newfoundlands can be stubborn and independent, they are also intelligent, gentle, loyal, and great family dogs. The majority of sources highlight their stubborn streak and independent thinking, leading to a rating of 4.

Is Newfoundland stubborn or independent?

LowHigh
Based on the consensus from multiple sources stating that an adult Newfoundland should get at least 30 to 60 minutes of moderate exercise daily, with some sources suggesting up to 2 hours for puppies or performance dogs.

How much playtime does a Newfoundland need daily?

LowHigh
The consensus suggests that Newfoundlands can be indoor dogs with limited walks, but it is important to provide proper cooling, limit outdoor exposure in extreme temperatures, and ensure regular exercise. It is advised to avoid hot temperatures and to be cautious with cold temperatures. Overall, a balance of indoor and outdoor activities is recommended.

Can Newfoundland stay indoors with limited walks?

LowHigh
The consensus suggests that Newfoundland dogs are generally protective and may exhibit territorial behavior, but they are not ideal guard dogs. They are loyal and will protect their owners when they sense danger, but aggression is uncommon unless they feel threatened.

Is Newfoundland protective or territorial?

LowHigh
Based on the consistent information across sources highlighting the Newfoundland's exceptional sweetness, trust, love for children, and affectionate nature towards family members, it is evident that the consensus is very high for their affection towards family.

Is Newfoundland affectionate with family?

LowHigh

Basic Info

What are the breed characteristics of Newfoundland?

The Newfoundland breed is known for being outgoing, intelligent, and curious, with a friendly and loving nature. They are large working dogs that come in various colors such as black, grey, brown, or black and white. Newfoundlands have a thick coat, webbed feet, and a natural life-saving instinct, making them excellent draught and water dogs. Referred to affectionately as "Newfies," they are intelligent, sweet, loyal, and very trainable, responding well to gentle guidance and positive reinforcement. Newfoundlands are exceptionally sweet and gentle, easily trusting, quick learners, and enjoy being around children. They are also recognized for their huge strength, warm personality, top-notch swimming skills, and dependable nature. Grooming is important due to shedding and occasional drooling. Overall, the Newfoundland is a docile, friendly, and affectionate breed that excels as both a working dog and a loving companion.


What is the average litter size of Newfoundland?

The average litter size of Newfoundland dogs can range from 4 to 12 puppies, with 5-6 puppies being the typical average across all dog breeds. Some larger breeds, including Newfoundlands, may have litters of up to 15 puppies. The litter size can vary greatly, but it generally hovers around 5 to 6 puppies.


What is the typical lifespan of Newfoundland?

The typical lifespan of a Newfoundland dog ranges between 8 to 10 years, although some individuals may live longer with proper genetics and nutrition. Reports suggest that the average lifespan is around 9-10 years, with some dogs living up to 15 years. Extra weight can shorten their lifespan, and it is emphasized that proper care and nutrition are essential for their longevity. While there are variations in reported lifespans, the consensus is that Newfoundlands typically live between 9 and 10 years, with some reaching 11 years according to a UK study. It is noted that the breed is not long-lived compared to other breeds, with an average lifespan of 9-10 years.


What does a Newfoundland look like?

The Newfoundland is a large and heavy breed of working dog known as a gentle giant. They have a thick double coat that is flat, dense, and water-resistant, coming in colors such as black, brown, grey, and white-and-black. The breed is characterized by its massive appearance, with a broad head, arched crown, and strong neck and back. Newfoundlands are equipped with webbed feet and a natural life-saving instinct, making them excellent draught and water dogs. They are often described as looking like cuddly teddy bears as puppies but grow quickly into their large size. The breed is also associated with the artist Sir Edwin Landseer, who popularized the black-and-white coat pattern in his paintings.


What is the origin of the Newfoundland?

The Newfoundland breed has origins that can be traced back to the southwestern counties of England and the southeastern region of Ireland. The name "Newfoundland" comes from the Latin Terra Nova, meaning New Land, and was also referred to as the "New Found Launde" by King Henry VII of England. The breed is thought to have been derived from a cross between the Pyrenees sheepdogs. Newfoundland is a large island located on the eastern coast of Canada, with a history spanning thousands of years and a unique culture influenced by English, Irish, French, and Indigenous heritage. The province of Newfoundland and Labrador in Canada covers a period from habitation by Archaic peoples to the present day, and its culture is rich with stories and legends.


What is the average size of Newfoundland?

The average size of a Newfoundland dog varies by gender, with males typically standing 28 to 30 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing around 130 to 150 pounds, while females stand 26 to 28 inches tall and weigh around 100 to 120 pounds. Some variations in weight and size exist among individual dogs within the breed, with healthy Newfoundlands ranging from 80 to 150 pounds. The breed is known for its large size, with adult AKC Newfoundlands averaging 26 inches and 100-120 pounds for females, and 28 inches and 130-150 pounds for males. The Newfoundland has a thick and straight coat, with an overall body length of roughly 36.5”-42” and a standing height of 32.5”-37.5”.


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