Newfoundland Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Newfoundland is a giant, gentle water dog from the Canadian island whose name it bears. It is famed for lifesaving at sea, a sweet temperament and a talent for swimming that few breeds can match.

Origins and appearance

The breed developed in Newfoundland as a working dog for fishermen, hauling nets and rescuing people. Newfoundlands are massive and powerful, with a broad head, a thick, oily, water-resistant double coat in black, brown, gray or black and white, webbed feet and a strong tail.

Temperament

They are sweet, patient and gentle. They love family, including children, and are good with other pets. They are calm indoors. They are intelligent and willing. They dislike being left alone. They can be clumsy and are strong on the leash.

Exercise

They need moderate exercise, such as daily walks and swimming. Avoid heavy exercise in heat or while growing. They enjoy water work and carting.

Training

They are intelligent and eager to please. Use positive methods and early socialization. Teach leash manners before the dog is large. House training is usually manageable.

Coat and grooming

The thick coat sheds heavily and needs brushing several times a week, daily during seasonal shedding. See double coat dog grooming guide. Do not shave. Wipe the drool, clean ears, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Heart disease, including subvalvular aortic stenosis and dilated cardiomyopathy
• Hip and elbow dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Cystinuria, a urinary condition with a DNA test. See bladder stones in dogs
• Cruciate ligament injuries
• Heat sensitivity. See dog heatstroke

Living with a Newfoundland

They suit families with space and cool conditions. They are poorly suited to small homes and hot climates.

A typical day

A Newfie enjoys a walk, a swim, a nap and family time. They like to be near people and lie at their feet.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are large and fluffy. Begin socialization, handling and training. Avoid stairs and heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food for a giant dog, grooming and vet costs. See dog vet cost guide and dog pet insurance guide.

Seasons and travel

They love cold and suffer in heat. Travel requires a large vehicle.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include exercising in heat, overfeeding puppies, ignoring heart checks and underestimating drool and shedding.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about heart, hip and elbow tests, DNA tests and lifespans in the lines. Meet the parents.

Water rescue instincts

Newfoundlands may try to rescue swimmers, including by pulling children out of water. This is sweet but needs management. Supervise around pools and lakes, and use proper training if you want the dog to do water work.

Drool and mess

Expect long strings of drool, wet floors and muddy paws. Keep towels handy and accept a lived-in home.

Daily care checklist

Plan on a walk or swim, brushing several times a week, cleaning of the face and ears, nail trims and measured meals. Provide cool resting areas and watch for signs of bloat.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Newfoundland suits families who want a giant, sweet dog and accept drool, shedding and health costs. It may not suit small homes or hot climates. For a related giant, see the Saint Bernard.

The takeaway

Newfoundlands are giant, gentle and water-loving, and they need space, grooming and cool weather.