Newfoundland Breed Magazine - Showsight

LIVING WITH THE NEWFOUNDLAND

SUBMITTED BY THE NEWFOUNDLAND CLUB OF AMERICA

T he Newfoundland is a large, strong, heavy-coated, active dog, equally at home in the water and on land. While at first the Newf may appear somewhat placid, he is actually a fairly active dog that enjoys and needs daily exercise. Despite his size, he can reside comfortably in a small home or apartment, provided he is given ample oppor- tunities for exercise. Newfoundlands are renowned for their unique gentle- ness, even temperament, loving nature, and devotion. Historically, they have displayed a keen sense of responsibility and life-saving instincts, and their acts of heroism, both on land and at sea, are recorded in history, myths, and legends. These attributes make a Newf a good choice as a companion for children and adults alike. While Newfs are well-known for their gentle disposition, personality and temperament can vary throughout this breed—just as with humans. While the Newf has strong guardian instincts, he is not a watchdog, and harsh treat- ment and inattention will produce resentment and poor behavior in any dog. In addition, one should see that a Newf (or any dog) is not abused or harassed by children or adults. A growing puppy may be more subject to injury than his size would lead you to believe. Never allow a child to climb on a growing puppy or ride on an adult Newf. The oily nature of the Newfoundland’s double coat effectively keeps him from getting wet to the skin, and combined with his webbed feet, deep, broad chest, and well-sprung ribs, contributes to his swimming ability. Despite this heavy coat, he adapts to warm as well as cool climates. In warm climates, the long outer coat remains but the undercoat thins out to some degree. The warmer the weather, the more careful you must be to avoid overheating. Also, provide a Newf with plenty of shade and fresh water, and do not leave him in the sun or unattended. Love does seem to be a warm puppy, but slow down and see if an adult Newfoundland is what you want to live with for the next ten years or so. In addition to their size, Newfs also come with drool and lots of shedding. Newfoundlands, like all purebred dogs, are vulnerable to some extent to particular health problems, most of which also occur in other large and

giant breed dogs. Since these major health problems are not always outwardly evident in young dogs, and have a genetic component, responsible breeders test their breeding stock prior to breeding. Most Newfoundlands enjoy swimming. It is excel- lent exercise that strengthens muscles without putting weight on the joints. It is quite common to hear those who do not know the breed say, “My, but he must eat a lot.” Probably because he is so placid, the full-grown Newf is a com- paratively small eater. However, when he is growing most rapidly, between the ages of three and 18 months, the Newf is a heavy eater. Be aware, however, that the amount of food suggested on dog food labels is generally excessive for large breeds. Overfeeding will not make your puppy larger than his genetic makeup intended him to be. At any age, you should be able to feel a Newfoundland’s ribs without exerting undue pressure. Excess weight reduces the life- span and may provide fertile ground for other problems. An untrained dog, no matter its size, is a liability in modern society. For their own safety, all dogs require some form of obedience training. Being intelligent canines, most Newfs are readily trained.

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