Newfoundland
This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.
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Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Working |
| Size | Giant (100-150 lbs) |
| Height | 26-28 inches |
| Lifespan | 9-10 years |
| Temperament | Sweet, Patient, Devoted |
| Good with Kids | Excellent (legendary "nanny dogs") |
| Good with Other Dogs | Very Good |
| Shedding | Very High |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate (30-60 minutes daily) |
| Trainability | Very Good (eager to please) |
Recommended for Newfoundlands
The Farmer's Dog - Fresh food for giant breeds | Embark DNA - Cystinuria and health screening | Spot Insurance - Coverage for heart and joint conditions
Save on Newfoundland Care
Chewy Autoship - 35% off first Autoship order, then 5% off repeat orders | Lemonade Pet - Pet insurance for giant breeds | Petplan - Comprehensive coverage including hereditary conditions
Top Food Choices for Newfoundlands
The Farmer's Dog - Fresh food for giant breeds | Ollie - Custom giant breed portions | Eukanuba - Giant breed formulas
A water dog the size of a person
Newfoundlands stand about 26 to 28 inches and weigh 100 to 150 pounds. Plan on about 9 to 10 years. They are sweet, heavy shedders, and moderate exercisers: a walk and a swim, not a marathon. The coat mats if it is ignored, and it holds water for hours after a pond.
They are usually good with other dogs and fond of children. The practical problems are floors that stay wet, cars that are too small, and vet clinics that need a lift help. A lean Newf lives more comfortably than a fluffy one you cannot feel ribs on.
A heart murmur and a urine crystal
Subaortic stenosis is a heart defect. A puppy murmur needs a cardiologist, not a promise that large dogs "grow out of it." Cystinuria makes stones that can block a male dog. Straining with no urine is an emergency. Hip and elbow dysplasia are common. VCA explains urinary blockage. That page, and the vomiting and straining notes, matter more than another brush.
Newfoundland questions
Are Newfoundlands nanny dogs?
They are often patient. A hundred-pound dog can still knock a toddler over and can still guard a bone. Supervision is the safety plan, not the nickname.
How much do they drool?
A lot, especially after water or exercise. Keep a towel by the door. If you dislike slime on walls, pick a different giant breed or accept the laundry.
Can they live in a hot climate?
Only with air conditioning and sense. The coat and the size make heatstroke realistic on a warm hike. Swim in clean water, then dry the ears.
Decision Guides for Newfoundland
Use these only when comparing food, insurance, ownership budget, or beginner fit for this specific pet.