Mary Allen
The Newfoundland is a very ancient dog breed and not much is known about its origins. The only thing known for sure is that (as the name suggests) it comes from the Canadian Atlantic island of Newfoundland. The Newfoundland ancestors we know today are said to have protected the inhabitants from rough seas, wind, ice, and snow.
Eventually, when European sailors arrived on the island and interbreeding took place between the original Newfoundland dogs and European breeds, the black and brown dogs as we know them today were born.
In the 19th century, the breed came across the pond to Europe. There they were in awe of the all-weather dog, which could pull heavy loads and would gladly throw itself into the water. However, he made a name for himself with his instinct to protect and rescue. It is said that many shipwrecked people owe their lives to the Newfoundland dog.
Today, Bear Canadians are still used as water rescue dogs, but they are also Newfoundland’s national animal and popular family dogs around the world.
General
- FCI Group 2: Pinschers and Schnauzers – Molossians – Swiss Mountain Dogs
- Section 2: Molossians / 2.2 Mountain Dogs
- Height: 71 centimeters (males); 66 centimeters (females)
- Colors: black, black and white, brown
Activity
Of course, a big dog needs to move a lot. Newfoundland is no exception. Therefore, long walks in the wind and bad weather are inevitable. The four-legged friend feels especially comfortable in winter and at lower temperatures.
But he is even more exuberant when he is allowed to swim. Here he is completely in his element and can really work out. Excursions to the lake or seaside dog beach are essential if you want your Newfoundland to be happy. In addition, swimming, of course, is very healthy and keeps the bearish Canadians in shape.
When it comes to mental development, Newfoundlands don’t need as much intensive or round-the-clock grooming as, for example, Border Collies or Labradors. However, they are smart, capable of learning, and enjoy tasks they can handle. Agility, for example, is less suitable for rather bulky dogs, but obedience, agility, or cart pull (not a sled, for example, but a handcart) are definitely possible if you consider that you are not an Aussie in front of you. Shepard for speed.
However, water work is the most suitable training, and there are many clubs for this too, where you can try and hone water rescue.
Features of the Breed
Not only do Newfoundlands seem to be friendly and gentle bears, but most of them do. This doesn’t mean kids should treat them like plush animals, but at least four-legged friends have really thick fur and big hearts.
They need a lot of closeness, are affectionate, and often seem calm. Especially towards children, they show an incredibly gentle, relaxed, and loving demeanor. But the Newfoundland also supports the rest of the family with its friendly nature and great vigilance. As a rule, he probably saved the life of any member of his pack and protected them (regardless of whether the command was given).
However, it is not hostile or aggressive towards strangers or dogs – it is only when he or his family is attacked that his friendly and benevolent façade can crumble. The rest of the Newfoundland is gentleness in dog form – always provided, of course, that you properly train your four-legged friends.
Recommendations
Socialization is very important in education. Aggressive training methods are completely inappropriate for the gentle Newfoundland (as they are for almost all dogs). But even if the family does not really have time for an animal and a four-legged friend has to be alone all day, the positive character traits described above are hardly encouraged.
What is needed instead is a loving but consistent and knowledgeable hand and, of course, an environment that suits the requirements of these bearded sheep. Among other things, it is important that Newfoundland has enough space and can also get some fresh air between walks. Therefore, a house with a garden is recommended, however, having enough green spaces or lakes nearby is an absolute must.
In addition, Newfoundlands are very suitable for families with children. However, you should have enough time for the animal, as four-legged friends are very sociable and affectionate.