There is a wealth of information available to the prospective Newfoundland Dog owner on the website of the Newfoundland Club of America, and in numerous books on the breed. In particular, we call your attention to the puppy pages, grooming tips and Breeder’s List on the NCA website, which will direct you to ethical breeders. Unfortunately, there are many unethical breeders of Newfoundlands out there. We urge those looking for a puppy to arm themselves with information and a good dose of patience when seeking to add a Newfoundland to the family. But first, make sure this breed is the one for you.

Newfoundlands are:

• Sweet-tempered, gentle and devoted to their families
• High maintenance for coat care
• Good with children
• Prone to orthopedic problems, heart problems and allergies
• Comical and fun-loving
• Great natural swimmers, water rescue dogs and retrievers
• A bit stubborn, but can be successfully trained in obedience
• Large and strong (100-150 lbs), with heavy undercoat that sheds

Newfoundlands are not:

• Guard dogs, barn-dogs, herding or any sort of “outdoor dog”
• Aggressive—period
• “Wash-and-wear dogs” (FYI: you will need to invest in some grooming tools and a forced-air dryer)
• Non-drooling or dry-mouthed (It’s a myth)
• High-energy like a Golden Retriever, Border Collie or Terrier
• Mentally slow just because they are big
• For the fastidious homeowner who dislikes dog hair and slobber

Newfoundlands need:

• To be close to their humans and part of the family
• A high (5’) fence, not invisible fencing
• Regular exercise and fun (like long walks, chasing balls or swimming)
• Regular (thorough, once-a-week) grooming and trimming of long hair on feet, ears, neck and abdomen
• Lots of attention and affection
• Someone to watch their weight for them
• Regular visits to their veterinarian and all recommended treatments (DHLLP, Lyme, Rabies, Bordatella) as well as Heartworm and Flea & Tick preventive medications
• Air-conditioning and fans in warm climates (i.e., it gets above 70 degrees during the day)
• Obedience training at a young age (before they weigh over 100 lbs!)