The Newfoundland: Gentle Giant


A large, gentle dog, the Newfoundland is believed to have derived from European breeds, possibly the Great Pyrenees.
One theory is that these dogs were brought to Newfoundland by sailors and fisherman from Europe. There they were crossed with local dogs to eventually create the Newfoundland.
Whatever the truth of the Newfie’s origins, the breed we know today was most certainly developed in Newfoundland, where they were used as working dogs, pulling in fisherman’s nets, hauling wood from the forest, and performing other tasks.
Their exceptionally strong swimming and natural lifesaving instincts would also have been noticed, so training them for water rescue would have been an easy task. An with their thick, waterproof coat providing protection from the freezing waters, they excelled at this task.
Today the Newfoundland competes in conformation, obedience, agility, tracking, draft and water tests, and carting.
If you are thinking of getting a Newfoundland you’ll be getting an excellent family dog. Newfies are renowned for their sweet and docile natures, making them true gentle giants of the canine world.
They are however, active dogs, needing daily exercise. The coat is also high maintenance requiring regular brushing to keep it in peak condition.
Newfoundlands are a highly intelligent breed and quick learners who respond well to training.
NEWFOUNDLAND FACT FILE |
| Group: Working Country of origin: Canada Date of origin: 1700′s Originally bred for: Multi-purpose working dog / Water rescue Current function: Water rescue / Companion Size: Large Coat length: Medium Shedding: Yes Grooming requirements: Daily Town or Country: Country Ideal home: Large house Minimum garden size: Large Exercise requirements: Up to 1 hour per day Lifespan: Under 10 years |
If you enjoyed this page on the Newfoundland, check out some of the other dog breed links below.