The Newfoundland (or “Newfie”) is a dog of legendary proportions and legendary kindness. Weighing in at up to 150 pounds, this massive breed is a true gentle giant. They are famous for their sweet disposition, their love of children, and their incredible strength as water rescue dogs.

If you remember “Nana” from Peter Pan, the devoted nursemaid dog who watched over the Darling children, you already know the spirit of the Newfoundland. (Although Nana was technically a St. Bernard in some versions and a Newfie in others, J.M. Barrie based her on his own Newfoundland, Luath).

These dogs are not just pets; they are life-savers. Their webbed feet, water-resistant coats, and powerful swimming ability have saved countless sailors from drowning over the centuries. Today, they are beloved family companions who bring a sense of calm and safety to any home—along with a fair amount of drool.

History and Origin: The Fisherman’s Friend

As the name suggests, the breed originated in Newfoundland, Canada. They descend from dogs brought to the island by European fishermen (likely Great Pyrenees and Black Retrievers) mixed with native dogs.

Newfoundlands were bred to be the ultimate working partners for fishermen. They hauled heavy nets out of the freezing North Atlantic, pulled carts of fish to market, and yes, jumped into the water to save anyone who fell overboard.

Their reputation for bravery spread quickly. One famous Newfie named “Seaman” accompanied Lewis and Clark on their expedition across America (1804-1806), protecting the explorers from bears and hunting for food. Another Newfie reportedly saved Napoleon Bonaparte from drowning during his escape from Elba.

Physical Characteristics

The Newfoundland is an impressive, powerful dog with massive bone structure.

• Height: 26 to 28 inches at the shoulder.
• Weight: Males 130-150 pounds; females 100-120 pounds. Some can reach nearly 200 pounds!

Built for Water

Every part of the Newfoundland is designed for swimming:

• Webbed Feet: Act like paddles.
• Water-Resistant Coat: An oily outer coat keeps the icy water away from their skin.
• Rudder Tail: Their thick, strong tail acts as a rudder while swimming.
• Swimming Stroke: Unlike other dogs that do the “doggy paddle,” Newfies use a powerful breaststroke motion.

Coat and Colors

They have a flat, water-resistant double coat.

• Black: The most common color.
• Brown: Ranging from chocolate to bronze.
• Grey: Less common.
• Landseer: White with black markings (named after the painter Sir Edwin Landseer, who made this variety famous).

Temperament: The “Nanny Dog”

The breed standard states that a sweet temperament is the “most important single characteristic of the breed.” Newfoundlands are patient, docile, and famously good with children.

Gentle Giants

Despite their size, they are incredibly careful. A well-bred Newfie seems to understand its own strength and will move slowly around toddlers and elderly people. They are rarely aggressive but are fiercely protective. If a stranger threatens their family, a Newfoundland will place itself between the threat and its people, using its size as a deterrent.

Intelligent and Sensitive

They are smart dogs who want to please, but they are also sensitive. Harsh training methods will crush their spirit. They respond best to gentle guidance and positive reinforcement.

The “Velcro” Giant

They want to be with you. All. The. Time. A 150-pound dog trying to sit in your lap is a common occurrence. They do not do well as “backyard dogs” and can suffer from separation anxiety.

Energy Level and Exercise

Newfoundlands are low-to-moderate energy. They are happy to lounge on the couch (or the cool tile floor) for much of the day.

• Daily Walks: A 30-minute walk is essential to keep them fit.
• Swimming: This is their greatest joy. If you live near water, your Newfie will be in heaven.
• Carting: They love to pull! You can train them to pull wagons or carts, which gives them a sense of purpose.

Caution: Avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather. Their heavy coats make them very prone to heatstroke.

Health and Lifespan

The biggest heartbreak of owning a Newfoundland is their short lifespan, typically 9 to 10 years.

• Orthopedic Issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia are very common. Rapid growth as puppies can damage joints, so diet must be carefully monitored.
• Heart Conditions: Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis (SAS) is a serious heart defect found in the breed.
• Bloat (GDV): A life-threatening twisting of the stomach. Feed small meals and avoid exercise after eating.
• Cystinuria: A kidney/bladder stone condition.

Grooming: Drool and Fur

Owning a Newfoundland is messy. There is no way around it.

• Drool: They have loose jowls and drool… a lot. You will find drool on your walls, your clothes, and your ceiling. Many owners keep “drool rags” in every room.
• Shedding: They shed heavily year-round and “blow coat” twice a year.
• Brushing: Brush them 2-3 times a week to prevent mats and remove dirt.
• Bathing: A massive task. Many owners use a professional groomer simply because fitting a Newfie in a standard bathtub is a logistical nightmare.

Is a Newfoundland Right for You?

Yes, if:

• You want a devoted, loving companion who is great with kids.
• You have a large home (they take up a lot of floor space).
• You don’t mind mess (drool, mud, hair).
• You live in a cooler climate (they struggle in heat).

No, if:

• You are a “neat freak.”
• You live in a small apartment (technically possible due to low energy, but physically difficult).
• You cannot afford the cost of feeding and vetting a giant breed.
• You want a jogging partner (their joints can’t take long-distance running).

The Newfoundland is a special soul. They offer a depth of loyalty and companionship that is hard to match. If you can handle the drool and the short lifespan, sharing your life with a Newfie is a privilege that will change you forever.