Dog's Name & Age:
Oreo, 12 years
In a Word, My Newfoundland Is...
All heart, as gentle as the morning sun, and as cheerful.
Best Characteristics of the Breed
His expressions and eyes which could say anything.
Most Challenging Characteristics of the Breed
Grooming
When, Where and How I Got My Newfoundland
The first time I saw a Newfie, he was walking down casually in the middle of my street his enormous frame monopolizing my attention. I knew immediately that this breed was for me. He was so calm despite the fact that he had gone on an unsupervised walk away from his home. I called the local pound to advise them of this big voyager and kept him overnight until his owners came to pick him up. He casually left with them as if this was something he had done a 100 times. As a result my next dog was a Newfie puppy I called Molson and we immediately bonded. He was the gentlest dog I have ever had the privilege to own.
I'd Describe My Dog As…
A dog with a SOUL, curious and calm. They try very had to please and to understand what you want. They have incredible ability to express emotions - a lot of facial expressions and they use their eyes to look deeply into your eyes. They are sensitive to others emotions and are genuinely hurt when one is displeased with him. Their only desire is to be next to you. After the first night in my home and his first "accident" I showed him where his papers were and from then on he was nearly housebroken an indication of their intelligence. They love family members and family gatherings. They are excellent with children patient and watchful. They love other dogs and animals and will befriend them. Sometimes, my dog, because he was so huge (he weighed 180 lbs at maturity) would sit on little dogs, especially if they were barking and excited. This would not hurt them as the victim inevitably was able to slip out from under him. Females are a bit smaller than males, these dogs weigh between 130 lbs to 165 lbs (my dog was exceptionally big). For their size, they do not eat that much and are rather particular about what they like. They enjoy going on walks and are good travelers in the car. They love water and swimming in it. The only medical problem I encountered was a skin problem that was very persistent and did not respond to antibiotics. He had his skin problem until the day he died (he was 12), regular brushing and grooming is absolutely necessary for his health. They shed, and drool but because they are so lovable it is easily overlooked. These are not dogs that should be tied up outside, in fact, it would break his spirit because of the social nature of this breed. They do not tolerate heat well. I recently lost my Newfie and want to buy another. I love Newfies and am very partial to them.
Advice
- Newfoundlands are excellent pets for families with small children.
- They settle down nicely into the family routine and can be kept in the house or in a sheltered environment such as a barn.
- They are good watch dogs without aggression but will certainly let you know if a stranger has arrived.
- Be sure to buy from a reputable breeder who can guarantee healthy puppies, (see if the parents of the pup are there) they are prone to hip dysplasia.
- They love to play with children outside and seem to be aware of their big size.
- If you want a gentle family oriented dog and don't mind brushing and drooling go for it.
