Moderate energy—daily walks, swimming, and slow, steady movement.
Eager to please but slow-moving. Gentle, consistent training works best.
Thick double coat requires regular brushing, especially during shedding seasons.
Very quiet. May snore, but rarely barks without reason.
Heavy shedding—not suitable for allergy-prone homes.
The Newfoundland is a giant working breed originally developed on the rugged coasts of Newfoundland, Canada. Known for their massive size, calm temperament, and exceptional swimming ability, these gentle giants were bred to assist fishermen with tasks like pulling nets, hauling gear, and rescuing people from the water.
Newfoundlands—often affectionately called “Newfs”—are sweet-natured, patient, and loyal. Despite their imposing size, they’re famously good with children and other animals, earning them the nickname “nanny dogs.” Their laid-back puppyhood makes them relatively easy to housebreak, but they do require consistent early training to manage their size and strength as they grow.
With webbed feet and a thick, water-resistant double coat, Newfoundlands are natural swimmers. Many instinctively perform water rescues and are used in lifeguard work to this day. Grooming is a must—expect to brush them every couple of weeks and manage some drool (especially after meals or drinks).
Males typically weigh 130–150 lbs, while females weigh 100–120 lbs, though some individuals have exceeded 200 lbs. Their AKC-recognized colors include black, brown, gray, and Landseer (white with black markings), though standards vary by country.
Newfoundlands are happiest when they have space to roam, water to splash in, and people to adore. Despite their working origins, they thrive as beloved family companions—gentle, dependable, and deeply affectionate.
Similar Breeds: Saint Bernard, Bernese Mountain Dog, Leonberger, Great Pyrenees
Living with a Newfoundland is like being protected by a furry guardian angel who moonlights as your emotional support bear. They’re massive, mellow, and remarkably intuitive—tuned in to your moods, your routines, and your doorway (which they’ll probably block, lovingly). These dogs are famously good with children, patient in the face of chaos, and happiest when quietly stationed near their family.
But don’t let their calm fool you—they come with size-specific needs. Expect lots of shedding, steady drool, and a requirement for space, both indoors and out. They aren’t high-energy, but they do need room to stretch and time with their people.
If you’re looking for a kind-hearted, kid-loving, couch-adjacent companion who brings peace, presence, and about 150 pounds of pure devotion, the Newfoundland is as good as it gets.
• Calm, sweet, and reliable
• Great with kids and pets
• High grooming needs
• Needs room to move
• Not heat-tolerant
I’m soft, soulful, and I will absolutely drool on your shoes. I specialize in slow walks, long naps, and heartfelt stares from across the room. I thrive in cool climates, cozy homes, and relationships built on loyalty and leaning (literally). Bonus points if you own towels—lots of towels—and don’t mind sharing your space with 150 pounds of love. If you want a gentle giant who gives bear hugs and means them, I’m your dog.
Newfoundlands need room to move—both physically and emotionally. They thrive in homes with a yard to roam, cool climates to breathe in, and people who are around more often than not. Access to water is a huge bonus (these dogs were built to swim), but even more important is a sense of belonging.
They don’t do well in the heat or in homes where they’re left alone all day. What they love: soft snow, calm energy, and a spot on the rug right where you’ll trip over them. They’re at their best in big-hearted households that offer steady companionship, gentle leadership, and ideally, a couch they’re technically not allowed on—but absolutely claim anyway.
• Double coat = lots of brushing
• Needs cooler environments
• Prone to joint issues—no rough play
• Huge water lovers
• Can be clingy with family
• Deshedding rake and undercoat comb
• Extra-large cooling mat
• Floating toys and dog-safe life vest
• Orthopedic bed
• Portable drool towel
Large, loving, and prone to a few heavyweight health issues:
• Hip and elbow dysplasia
• Subvalvular aortic stenosis (SAS, a serious heart condition)
• Cystinuria (can lead to urinary stones)
• Bloat (gastric torsion)
• Joint and mobility problems in senior years
Screening and early intervention are key to long-term wellness.
Dramatic fluff with purpose:
• Thick, water-resistant double coat
• Comes in black, brown, gray, or Landseer (white with black markings)
• Heavy seasonal shedding, especially in spring and fall
• Requires weekly brushing and occasional trims
• Extra care needed around ears, tail, and hindquarters to prevent matting
Gorgeous—but grooming is a serious commitment.
Big appetite, big responsibility:
• High-quality large-breed formula with joint support
• Feed 2–3 smaller meals a day to reduce bloat risk
• Omega-3s and glucosamine help support joints and coat health
• Avoid overfeeding—this breed is prone to weight gain
• Clean, fresh water should always be available, especially after exertion
Growth-stage nutrition is especially important for developing giants.
Support their size and sweetness with proactive care:
• Prioritize early joint and cardiac screenings
• Use raised feeders to reduce strain and help prevent bloat
• Keep ears dry and clean—moisture can lead to infections
• Maintain a regular grooming and nail trimming routine
• Provide cool spaces and limit exertion in heat
The Newfoundland’s size is matched only by its heart—keep both protected with loving, preventive care.
Newfoundlands are gentle giants with lifesaver instincts, massive hearts, and equally massive grooming needs. They’re not for the squeamish or the spotless—but for families who want a kind, steady, soulful dog, they’re unbeatable.