Facts About Newfoundland Dogs
The Newfoundland is a large, hairy dog with a great
temperament. They are calm and do not require a great
deal of exercise so they may even be kept in an apartment.
Of course, a properly fenced in yard for exercise is
preferable.
The Newfoundland was bred for cold temperatures and
icy water so hot climates will stress them. There are
numerous cases where they have actually saved drowning
people. They are generally good with children. As a
reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy
or dog. They are protective of their family but still
mild mannered and generally not dangerous. Males may
fight males but they are usually good with other pets.
Approximate Adult Size
The approximate adult size (two years old or older)
of the male Newfoundland is 27 to 29 inches to the withers
(highest point of the shoulder) and 130 to 150 pounds.
The female ranges from 25 to 27 inches to the withers
and 100 to 120 pounds.
Special Health Considerations
Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems
associated with that specific breed and the Newfoundland
is no exception. Be on the look out for Canine Hip Dysplasia
(genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead
to arthritis pain and lameness), and sun-aortic stenosis
(a hereditary heart condition). This disease list is
an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also
be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian
for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the
first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as
an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for
shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and
on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for
check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog
sweets.
Grooming
The Newfoundland has a coarse, water resistant, flat,
moderately long, outer coat with a dense and soft inner
coat. Bathing will wash the protective oils from her
coat so bathe rarely. Brush her coat every couple of
days to remove shed and help her maintain a clean and
healthy coat, avoid mats and help you keep a closer
eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond
with her.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with
toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing
removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which
can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease.
Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth,
bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and
clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow
slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally
a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore
and competent instructions to accomplish this can be
found on the net.
Life Span
The Newfoundland can live between 8 and 10 years with
proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living
conditions.
History
The Newfoundland comes from Newfoundland, Canada where
they were bred to pull sleds, guard and hunt game. They
are water dogs, having webbed feet and protective oily
coats to protect them from the harsh environment. They
were first registered by the American Kennel Association
in 1886.
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