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History:
The Newfoundland may be a descendant of
the Viking "bear dogs" or nomadic Indian dogs. Others believe the
Newfoundland is a close relative of the Labrador. This theory is based
on the similarities between the two breeds and the fact that the coast
of Newfoundland and Labrador are very close to each other. It is
possible that the Labrador, which is an excellent swimmer, was able to
swim the Strait of Belle Isle or cross on foot when the water was
frozen. Many believe the Newfoundland originated from crosses between
Tibetan Massifs brought to Canada By British or European fisherman and
local dogs early in the 1700's. In any case, the resulting breed found a
niche aiding fisherman off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada.
Temperament:
The Newfoundland is a dog with an
outstanding, sweet temperament, courageous, generous, peaceable and
intelligent. A calm, patient dog, who is mild with guests, and obedient
with its master. They are very devoted, loyal and trustworthy. Their
huge body tends to move rather slowly. They rarely bark, but are
protective and brave when they need to be. When an intruder is caught
they are more likely to hold them at bay, either by trapping them in a
corner or placing themselves in-between the burglar and the family
rather than an all out attack. They are smart enough to know who is a
threat to the pack and who is not. Very sociable and gentle. Any dog,
other animal, child, or visitor who has
no evil intention will receive a
friendly welcome. Usually gets along with other dogs, but should be
socialize well with them, giving a
correction at any sign of aggressiveness to insure this behavior.
Generally good with
other animals. Patient, playful, and
loving with children. Enjoys the outdoors, but also needs to be with
their family. The Newfoundland tends to be very messy when drinking
water and often drinks a lot. They do
drool, especially after getting a
drink, but generally are not one of the worst offenders compared to some
other
giant breeds. They love to swim, and
will lay in water if they get the chance. This breed may be slightly
difficult to train. Training must be
conducted in a calm and balanced manner. In order to achieve a
well balanced dog one must be calm, but
firm, confident and consistent with the dog. Giving the dog
rules he must follow and sticking to
them along with a daily pack walk where the dog must heal beside or
behind you. No pulling ahead. Teach the dog to enter and exit door and
gateways after the human. These dogs are very sensitive to the tone of
your voice. Take this into account during training, one needs to be
calm, but firm. Adult Newfoundlands eat only about as much as a
Labrador, but puppies eat more.
Maintenance: Regular daily brushing and the occasional bath will
keep their coats in good shape.
Weight Range:100-150 lbs.
Avg. Height: 25-29 in.
Breed Origin:
Group: Working |
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| Tolerates Cold
Weather |
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| Tolerates Hot
Weather |
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| Good Watchdog
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| Needs Exercise
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| Good w/Other
Animals |
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| Easily Trainable
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| Can Live Outside
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| Needs Grooming
Often |
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| Lives Well In City
Life |
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| Good With Kids
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Did
You Know? |
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This breed faced extinction around 1900 but was saved by the
efforts of Professor Albert Heim. |
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