Newfoundland Breed Guide
Also known as: Newfie, Newf, The Gentle Giant
Swimming bears with gentle souls, Newfoundlands are water rescue dogs whose calm nature and swimming ability make them excellent aquatic companions.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Giant
Weight
45-70 kg
Lifespan
8-10 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
High
Size
Giant
Weight
45-70 kg
Lifespan
8-10 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
High
About Newfoundlands
The Newfoundland originated on the island of Newfoundland, Canada, where they were bred by fishermen for water rescue and hauling nets. These gentle giants were developed from various European breeds brought by early settlers and became renowned for their swimming ability and life-saving instincts.
Newfoundlands are massive dogs with thick, water-resistant double coats in black, brown, grey, or Landseer (black and white). They're known for their gentle expressions, webbed feet, and calm, patient temperaments.
These dogs are gentle, patient, and make excellent family pets despite their enormous size. They're particularly known for their love of children and their natural protective instincts around water. They require moderate exercise and are excellent swimmers. While generally healthy, potential concerns include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and heart conditions. Early socialisation helps ensure they're well-adjusted, confident adults who can handle their substantial size appropriately.
Complete Care Guide for Newfoundlands
Expert advice on keeping your Newfoundland healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Providing proper nutrition for a Newfoundland requires careful attention to their unique dietary needs throughout different life stages. These gentle giants benefit from a well-balanced diet rich in high-quality protein sources, particularly those containing adequate levels of taurine for optimal heart health. Animal proteins such as chicken and beef prove especially beneficial, offering superior taurine content compared to lamb or soya-based options.
Weight management plays a crucial role in maintaining your Newfoundland's health, as excess weight can significantly impact their joints and overall mobility. Regular monitoring of body condition and adjusting portion sizes accordingly helps prevent obesity-related complications. Establishing consistent feeding schedules and measuring portions precisely ensures appropriate caloric intake for your dog's age, size, and activity level.
Dietary requirements evolve as your Newfoundland transitions from puppyhood through to senior years. Puppies need nutrient-dense food to support their rapid growth, while adult dogs require balanced maintenance formulas. Senior Newfoundlands often benefit from reduced calorie intake with maintained protein levels to preserve muscle mass. Working closely with veterinary professionals to adjust feeding plans throughout these life stages ensures optimal nutrition for your beloved companion.
How healthy is your Newfoundland?
A two minute quiz for your personalised results and health plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Newfoundlands from our community of pet parents
Newfoundlands, often referred to as 'Newfies', are known for their gentle and kind temperament. They are incredibly patient, making them excellent companions for children. Despite their large size, they are very good-natured and are known to be quite protective of their family. They are typically calm and docile, but also have a playful side. Newfies are intelligent dogs who respond well to calm, consistent training methods.
Dog Breeds Similar to Newfoundland
Explore breeds with comparable temperament, size, and care requirements to the Newfoundland
Saint Bernard
Alpine rescue dogs, Saint Bernards are gentle, massive dogs whose calm temperaments and impressive size make them excellent companions for patient owners.
Portuguese Water Dog
Curly-coated fishermen's helpers, Portuguese Water Dogs are athletic, intelligent working dogs whose swimming ability and hypoallergenic coats suit active aquatic lifestyles.
Leonberger
Gentle lions with golden coats, Leonbergers are calm, powerful dogs whose impressive size is matched by their surprisingly gentle, family-oriented nature.