Newfoundland
Quick Facts:
- AKC recognized in 1886
- Lifespan: 9-10 years
- Size: Large
- Energy: Medium
- Recommended Crate Size: 48" dog crate*
Return to the main Dog Crate Sizes Breed Chart.
Table of contents
Introduction
The Newfoundland shares the same name of a province in Canada where they come from. The province is also the birthplace of the Labrador Retriever.
Sharing the same birthplace means the Newfoundland has similarities to the Labrador Retriever in character, desire to please, strong work ethic, intelligence, adaptability, friendliness, and versatility.
The Newfoundland is a giant dog which can weigh up to 100 pounds. People who cannot stand mess should not consider the Newfoundland because this dog has a heavy and long coat which is a magnet to dirt and mud.
Breed
The American Kennel Club formally recognized the Newfoundland in 1886.
These medium energy dogs are known as the descendant of Viking “bear dogs".
The Newfoundland is a sweet dog who loves toddlers. They are naturally friendly and gentle as well as protective to their family. Some people also think that this dog is a natural babysitter. Because of its size, supervision is always recommended.
Besides being friendly to children, the Newfoundland also has a strong work ethic and requires regular exercise as well as mental stimulation to keep them fit and happy.
The Newfoundland is suitable in places with cooler climates but they can also adapt to living in warmer climates. That being said, they need to keep in air-conditioned areas with fans to prevent them from getting heat stroke.
Appearance
The Newfoundland is a giant dog.
The male weight can reach up to 140-175 lbs (65 to 80 kg) while the female can reach 120-145 lbs (55 to 65 kg). There are even some Newfoundlands reportedly reaching more than 200 lbs (90 kg)!
This dog has extremely large bones to give them the power that they need to be active.
Since this dog is well adapted to swimming, they have huge lung capacity. The double coat is waterproof, thick and oily to give them protection in icy or chilly water.
The Newfoundland also has droopy lips and jowls which make them drool a lot.
Nutrition
It is recommended to provide feed formulated to large-sized breeds. It is highly recommended to discuss your dog’s feed with your veterinarian and/or breeder in order to determine the size and frequency of meals in order to ensure a healthy, long life. It is also important to ensure that clean, fresh water is always available.
Grooming
The Newfoundland's double coat can be difficult to groom and it also sheds a lot. The thick coat needs to be brushed two or three times a week. They also need bathing once or twice a month.
Many Newfoundland owners hire a professional groomer to help them groom the dog because it is a long, full day affair.
Similar to other fluffy dogs, the Newfoundland tends to easily get dirty and muddy.
Exercise
This big dog only needs regular activity of between 20-60 minutes per day. They may be not a long-distance runner, but they enjoy swimming. For the rest of the day, Newfoundland also loves lazing around the house.
Pet Crate Size
Pet Crates Direct recommends a 48" dog crate* for most adult Newfoundlands.
Return to the main Dog Crate Sizes Breed Chart.
* Links for crate sizes will bring you to the most appropriate Amazon page.
