newfoundlands

This distinctive dog is named after the Canadian province it originated in. Affectionately called “Newfies,” these dogs are known for their wonderful patience and gentleness with children.

They are highly trainable and learn quickly. Newfoundlands are built to withstand icy temperatures. Their webbed feet, thick, water-proof hair and incredible strength give them their well-known bear-like look.

The Newfoundland is most often solid black in color, although coloring can vary. Newfies are gentle-natured and devoted pets and do best in larger living spaces as a result of their impressive size.

The Newfoundland is a large, sweet dog that weighs 100 – 150 pounds and has a life expectancy of 9 – 10 years.   While the Newfoundland is generally healthy, they do have some specific disease conditions they are affected with.  Always contact your veterinarian as soon as you notice any physical or behavioral changes. 

Potential Health Conditions:

• Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD)

• Elbow Dysplasia (ED)

• Bloat, Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV)

• Cystinuria

• Aortic Stenosis, Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis (SAS)

• Enlarged Heart, Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)

• Addison's Disease, Hypoadrenocorticism

• Cataracts

• Recurring seizures, Idiopathic Epilepsy (IE)

• Osteochondritis Diseases (OCD)

• Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture

• Cherry Eye, Prolapsed Nictitating Membrane Gland (PNMG)

• Ear infections, Otitis

Suggested Screening

• Hip evaluation

• Elbow evaluation

• Cystinuria (Newfoundland) – DNA test

• Cardiac examination

Routine care:

• Spay or neuter

• Ear care

• Moderate exercise

Newfies have high maintenance grooming requirements and they require a lot of attention and activity. While they only need moderate exercise, they are large dogs (up to 180 pounds) and need lots of room.

They can withstand cold temperatures and are built for swimming.