Newfoundland
Description
The Newfoundland, often called a Newfie, hails from the cold, rugged coasts of Newfoundland island in Canada. This breed was shaped by a blend of indigenous dogs and settlers' breeds, including possibly the Tibetan Mastiff. They were bred for tough jobs like hauling loads, rescuing swimmers, and towing boats. Their partially webbed feet make them natural swimmers, capable of lifesaving water rescues with remarkable technique. Newfoundlands are gentle giants with a calm, patient demeanor. They’re great with kids and other pets, protective without being aggressive. Their thick double coat keeps them warm but demands attention, especially in warmer months. These dogs prefer cooler climates and enjoy steady, moderate exercise to stay content and healthy.
Grooming
Newfoundlands have a medium-length double coat that sheds heavily during spring and fall. Regular grooming is essential to keep their thick undercoat healthy and reduce matting. Brush your Newfie three times a week, increasing frequency during shedding seasons. Use an undercoat rake to remove dead hair effectively and prevent tangles. Bathing every 4 to 6 weeks is ideal; always blow-dry thoroughly to help loosen and remove loose fur. - Brush 3× weekly, more in heavy shed - Use an undercoat rake for dead hair - Bathe every 4–6 weeks, blow-dry after - Pay attention to white markings for stains - Check ears and paws for debris Pro tip: Blow-drying after baths not only speeds drying but also helps lift loose undercoat, reducing shedding around your home.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
Newfoundlands need about 50 minutes of walking daily, ideally in one session. Their low activity level means they don’t require intense exercise but benefit from steady, moderate walks that keep joints healthy and muscles toned. Avoid strenuous activity in hot weather due to their thick coat. A good routine might be a 10-minute warm-up walk, followed by 30 minutes at a steady pace, then a 10-minute cool-down stroll. This helps maintain their stamina without overexertion. Swimming is a fantastic alternative exercise for Newfies, tapping into their natural abilities and providing joint-friendly movement. Example routine: - 5:30 PM: 10-minute warm-up walk around the block - 5:40 PM: 30-minute steady walk at the park - 6:10 PM: 10-minute cool-down stroll back home
Boarding
When boarding a Newfoundland, provide a crate at least 48 inches wide to accommodate their large size comfortably. They enjoy a calm environment with plenty of space to stretch out. Staff should be aware that Newfies are gentle and prefer low-key interactions rather than rough play. Enrichment is key: offer two active play sessions daily combined with scent or brain games to keep their minds engaged. Because they’re water lovers, supervised splash play or access to a shallow pool can be a great bonus. Staff should monitor for overheating and ensure fresh water is always available. This breed thrives on routine and gentle handling, so consistent schedules and calm voices help reduce stress during boarding stays.