Loyal and eager to please, the Newfoundland makes a great companion and is particularly good with children. However, along with the Newfs’ massive size comes related health issues and some increased costs. Potential parents must be prepared for the unique responsibilities of caring for this “gentle giant.”
Size:
Male: 130-150 lbs. Female: 100-120 lbs.
Exercise Requirements:
Despite their size, Newfoundlands don’t necessarily require a huge amount of exercise, but they do like to be worked. Daily walks will keep your Newfoundland active and in good shape. The opportunity to go for a swim will make the webbed-foot wonder very happy.
Mess Factor:
With his thick double coat and unstoppable drool, the Newfoundland can definitely leave a big mess behind. If you’re a hairophobe or anti-slobber, this breed is certainly not the one for you.
Barking and Volume:
This dog likes to bark and can’t help but do it loudly. However, with consistent training and socialization, barking may be kept in check.
Training Requirements:
An untrained Newf can be particularly problematic given its large size. To ensure that your Newfoundland is properly socialized and well behaved, a basic puppy obedience course is a must. Luckily, Newfoundlands are intelligent and fairly easy to train.
Ongoing Costs:
Health Problems:Hip dysplasia, inherited heart problems and cystinuria
Grooming Requirements:Regular home grooming is sufficient.
Training Requirements: Basic puppy obedience classes are a must.
Other: As a large breed, Newfoundlands have special dietary needs and require a high quality food to maintain proper weight and good health. They also eat a ton, so be prepared for a whopping food bill.
Grooming Requirements:
The Newfoundland’s dense coat requires regular brushing (think 10 minutes a day) to remove loose hair. To keep slobber in check, make sure that you wipe the Newfoundland’s jowls regularly.
Kid Compatibility:
Don’t be surprised if your Newfoundland becomes your child’s very best friend. The breed is excellent with kids, thanks to its laid-back, lovable and patient temperament. However, make sure that your kids don’t take advantage of the dog’s sweet nature—though he may not get upset when kids get rough, it’s important that he is respected like any other member of the family. Because of his size, supervision is recommended when he’s around small children.
Longevity:
8-10 years.
Friendliness: Towards Animals
If properly socialized with other animals, these big teddy bears will have no problem making friends with everyone they meet — from the dog next door, to smaller household pets.
Friendliness: Towards People
The Newfoundland is definitely a lover, not a fighter. Though their size can be intimidating, they are naturally social, gentle creatures and will warm to strangers very easily.
BE PREPARED FOR: Super-sized vet bills and feeding costs in return for years of loving, loyal companionship.
