Mary Allen
Introduction: The Saint John’s Water Dog
The Saint John’s Water Dog, also known as the Newfoundland, is a breed of dog that originated in Newfoundland, Canada. It is a large, strong breed that was originally bred for working purposes such as fishing and retrieving. The breed is known for its excellent swimming abilities and is often referred to as the "ultimate water dog."
Origins of the Breed: Newfoundland, Canada
The Saint John’s Water Dog originated in Newfoundland, Canada in the 16th century. The breed was developed by the fishermen and settlers in the area who needed a dog that could work in the harsh conditions of the region. The breed was created by crossing various breeds of dogs including the Mastiff, the Great Pyrenees and the Portuguese Water Dog. The breed was also influenced by the native dog of Newfoundland, the Micmac, which was used by the indigenous people for hunting and fishing.
Early Uses: Fishing and Retrieving
The Saint John’s Water Dog was primarily used for fishing and retrieving in the early years of its development. The breed was used to help fishermen retrieve nets and to pull carts of fish to market. They were also used to retrieve fish that fell from the hooks of fishermen. The breed’s webbed feet and water-resistant coat made it an excellent swimmer and it was often used to rescue people who had fallen overboard.
Role in the 19th Century: Lifesaving
In the 19th century, the Saint John’s Water Dog’s lifesaving abilities were discovered. The breed was used by the Royal Humane Society in England to rescue people who had fallen through the ice. The breed’s thick coat and strong swimming abilities made it an ideal rescue dog. The breed was also used by the Canadian government to patrol the country’s waterways and to assist in search and rescue missions.
Introduction to England and the Kennel Club
The Saint John’s Water Dog was first introduced to England in the 1800s. The breed gained popularity among the wealthy and was bred for show purposes. The Kennel Club in England officially recognized the breed in 1860. The breed was also popular in the United States and was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1886.
Decline in Popularity and Near Extinction
Despite its popularity in the 19th century, the Saint John’s Water Dog’s popularity declined in the 20th century. The breed was replaced by other breeds that were better suited for specific tasks. The breed also suffered from a decline in demand for its fur, which was used to make coats and other clothing items. By the early 20th century, the breed was nearly extinct.
Revival Efforts: Miley and Adams
In the 1920s, two individuals, Mabel R. C. Miley and Lewis G. Adams, began efforts to revive the breed. They collected dogs from the remote areas of Newfoundland and began breeding them. The dogs they collected were used to establish a breeding program and to create a standard for the breed. The revival efforts were successful and the breed began to regain popularity.
Recognition by the Canadian Kennel Club
The Saint John’s Water Dog was officially recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club in 1945. The breed was also recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1960. Today, the breed is still relatively rare and is primarily used as a companion dog.
Characteristics: Appearance and Temperament
The Saint John’s Water Dog is a large breed of dog that can weigh up to 150 pounds. The breed has a thick, water-resistant coat that can be black, brown or gray. The breed is known for its strong swimming abilities and webbed feet. The breed is also known for its gentle and loyal temperament.
Modern Day: Uses and Popularity
The Saint John’s Water Dog is primarily used as a companion dog today. The breed is also used in water rescue missions and as a therapy dog. The breed is still relatively rare and is not as popular as other breeds.
Conclusion: Legacy of the Saint John’s Water Dog
The Saint John’s Water Dog has a rich history and has contributed greatly to society. The breed’s strong swimming abilities and gentle temperament make it an ideal companion. The breed’s lifesaving abilities have also made it an important part of search and rescue missions. Although the breed is relatively rare today, its legacy lives on.
References and Further Reading
- "Newfoundland Dog." American Kennel Club. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/newfoundland/
- "Newfoundland (Dog)." Encyclopaedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/animal/Newfoundland-dog
- "Saint John’s Water Dog." Canadian Kennel Club. https://www.ckc.ca/en/Choosing-a-Dog/Choosing-a-Breed/Working-Dogs/Saint-John-s-Water-Dog
- "The Newfoundland Club UK." The Newfoundland Club UK. https://www.thenewfoundlandclub.co.uk/