Newfoundland

🐶 Basic Characteristics

Height: Male: 28 inches (71 cm) on average.
Weight: 130 – 150 lbs (59 – 68 kg).

Coat: Thick, water-resistant double coat; soft undercoat + coarse, long outer coat.

Colors: Black (most common), brown, gray, and Landseer (white with black markings).

Life Span: Average: 9 – 10 years.

Temperament

  • Gentle Giant: Calm, sweet, and affectionate, especially with children.
  • Patient & Loyal: Very attached to family, thrives on companionship.
  • Protective but Not Aggressive: Will guard family but is usually friendly with strangers if socialized.
  • Great Swimmers: Known as “lifeguard dogs,” with natural life-saving instincts in water.
  • Easygoing: Generally relaxed indoors, but needs space due to size.

Health

  • Hip & Elbow Dysplasia (very common in giant breeds).
  • Heart Disease (subvalvular aortic stenosis is common in this breed).
  • Bloat (GDV) – risk in deep-chested dogs.
  • Cystinuria (kidney/bladder stones, genetic condition).
  • Obesity – can shorten lifespan if not controlled.

Care Tips

  • Feed balanced large-breed diet (2–3 smaller meals/day).
  • Provide joint supplements for hips/elbows.
  • Regular vet checks for heart and kidney health.
  • Keep coat well-groomed and skin dry to prevent infections.