Newfoundland
Modified: 30-11--0001 00:00:00
The Newfoundland is a large, black, breed of dog originally used as a working dog in Newfoundland, Canada. They are known for their sweet dispositions. They are very loyal to their families and possess natural water rescue tendencies.
Appearance
Newfoundlands ('Newfies') have webbed feet and a water-resistant coat. Males weigh 60?70 kg (130-150 lbs), and females 45-55 kg (100-120 lbs), placing them in the 'giant' weight range.
Most Newfies are black, but brown, gray (very rare), Irish Spotted (black with white markings), and Landseer (black head, white body with black markings) varieties exist. The Landseer is named after the artist Sir Edwin Landseer, who featured them in many of his paintings. Some kennel clubs consider the Landseer to be a separate breed; others consider it simply a Newfoundland color variation. Some kennel clubs consider Irish Spotted to be an "invalid" marking, and these clubs will not allow them to be shown.
Temperament
Newfies have a gentle, placid disposition. They are nicknamed the 'Gentle Giant' and 'Nature's babysitter.' Indeed, the official AKC breed description says 'Sweetness of temperament is the hallmark of the Newfoundland; this is the most important single characteristic of the breed.' They are protective of children. The dog Nana in James M. Barrie's Peter Pan was a Newfoundland.
The Newfoundland is smart and loyal. The breed is easily trained as they are eager to please their masters. They are not easily frightened nor excitable. Relative to other breeds, Newfoundland puppies, especially older puppies, tend to be calm. Puppyhood doesn't last for extended amounts of time as in some breeds. They get along wonderfully with other dogs. They have deep, fierce-sounding barks, but are not good guard dogs. They have been known to grieve when separated from their families. Despite their wonderful qualities, this breed is not for everyone. Their large size makes them difficult to keep in many living situations, although they do not require great amounts of exercise and as puppies they tend to tire easily.
History
The origin of the breed is uncertain, but they were in use as working dogs on the island of Newfoundland as early as AD 1000. It is said that Newfoundlands were bred to pull in the fishermens' nets. Newfoundlands have been used as water rescue dogs and for draft work. National Geographic's program "Dogs with Jobs" named the Newfoundland as the strongest draft dog on earth. The breed almost became extinct; most modern-day Newfoundlands trace their ancestry to a single stud dog named Siki who lived in the 1920s.
Health
As with many large breeds, they have a tendency for hip dysplasia. A potential buyer should seek proof of hip certification from the breeder.
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