About The Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a giant dog breed known for its calm nature and strength. These dogs have thick, water-resistant coats and webbed feet, making them excellent swimmers. Newfoundlands are friendly, loyal, and gentle with children. They are often called “gentle giants” because of their size and sweet temperament. You may see them working in water rescue due to their natural swimming ability.
Key Traits:
- Large size: Adult males usually weigh 130–150 lbs
- Coat colors: Black, brown, gray, or Landseer (white and black)
- Life span: 8–10 years
- Temperament: Calm, patient, and affectionate
Characteristic | Details |
---|---|
Height | 26–28 inches (male) |
Weight | 100–150 lbs |
Shedding | High |
Trainability | Eager to please |
Energy Level | Moderate |
You need to provide regular grooming for a Newfoundland due to its thick double coat. Their gentle and patient personality makes them great family dogs, but they do best in homes with enough space.
Is This The Right Breed For You?
Newfoundlands are large, strong dogs with thick, water-resistant coats. If you live in a warm climate, you need to be sure your home keeps them cool and comfortable.
This breed is known for being gentle, especially with children. They are often called “gentle giants” because of their patient nature and steady temperament. Newfoundlands need daily exercise to stay healthy. Daily walks, playtime, or swimming sessions are important. If you don’t have enough time for these activities, this breed might be hard to manage.
Trait | What to Expect |
---|---|
Size | 100-150 lbs; very large |
Shedding | Heavy, especially in spring |
Drooling | Moderate to high |
Energy | Medium |
Grooming Needs | Regular brushing needed |
- You should know they drool quite a bit and shed heavily. Be ready to clean often and brush their coat a few times a week.
- Some common health concerns include hip dysplasia and heart issues. Good breeders will screen puppies for these problems.
- If you have a small apartment or limited space, a Newfoundland may feel crowded. They do best with a yard or open area.
- Newfoundlands are loyal, smart, and eager to please. They respond well to training, especially when started young.
Where To Buy A Newfoundland Puppy Or Dog
If you want to buy a Newfoundland puppy or dog, you have several good options. The key is to look for reputable breeders who care about the well-being of their dogs. One of the most reliable places to start is the AKC Marketplace. The American Kennel Club lists Newfoundland puppies from AKC-registered parents, which helps ensure quality and good breeding practices.
You can also look at Puppy Spot as they screen breeders for quality and offer helpful information about available puppies.
Some popular places to search for Newfoundland puppies are:
- AKC Marketplace
- Puppy Spot
- Pawrade
Before you buy, make sure to ask the breeder for the puppy’s health records, information about the parents, and any certifications. This can help you avoid problems later. You should also visit the breeder if possible. Meeting the puppies and their parents in person lets you see how they’re cared for and gives you a better idea of what to expect.
It is best to avoid pet stores and puppy mills, as these may not give the same level of care or health guarantees. Take your time and choose a breeder who is open, helpful, and willing to answer your questions.
How To Choose A Reputable Breeder Or Platform
When looking for Newfoundland puppies, always start by checking a breeder’s reputation. Ask for health records, registration papers, and details about the puppy’s parents.
A good breeder will welcome questions and allow you to visit their kennel or meet the puppies first. This can help you see the living conditions and health of the dogs. For example, breeders like those found on the AKC Marketplace often follow strict standards.
What to Ask a Breeder:
- Can you see health certificates for the puppy and its parents?
- Are the puppies socialized with people and other dogs?
- Do they follow the breed club’s code of ethics?
If you use an online platform, check for reviews or ratings. Only use platforms that verify breeders, such as AKC Marketplace.
What to Look For | What to Avoid |
---|---|
Health guarantees | No health records |
Registered puppies | Poor communication |
Clean environment | Overcrowded kennels |
Reputable breeders often belong to groups like the Newfoundland Club of America and are recognized by the American Kennel Club. Avoid buying from puppy mills or breeders who cannot answer your questions. Taking these steps will help you choose a healthy, well-raised Newfoundland puppy.
Getting Your New Pup Home
Bringing your Newfoundland puppy home is a big moment. Before you pick up your dog, make sure your home is set up with the right supplies.
Here’s a checklist of things to have ready:
Supplies | Purpose |
---|---|
Food & Water Bowls | For mealtimes |
Puppy Food | Keeps your dog healthy |
Crate | Safe space for your puppy |
Leash & Collar | For walks and ID tags |
Bed | Comfort and rest |
Toys | Chewing and play |
Puppy Pads | Training and accidents |
Brush | Grooming, especially for thick fur |
- If you’re driving a long distance, plan for breaks to let your puppy stretch and go to the bathroom. Bring water, a towel, and a toy to help your puppy feel secure during the trip.
- Keep your first days calm and quiet. Give your new pup time to explore each room at their own pace. Avoid loud noises and too many visitors.
- Stick to a simple routine for feeding, walks, and bedtime. Routine helps puppies feel safe and adjust faster.
- If you bought your Newfoundland from a breeder, ask them about your puppy’s current food and daily schedules. This can make the change smoother for both you and your new pup.