The Newfoundland dog is a giant sized breed of dog that comes in shades of black, brown or black-and-white. The Newfoundland dog was first bred as working dogs, to help fishermen in Newfoundland. If you are looking for an intelligent, loyal, teddy-bear sized dog with tremendous strength and a muscular build, the Newfoundland dog is exactly what you need to find out about. This article has everything you need to know.
Is The Newfoundland Dog Popular In India?
The Newfoundland dog is popular across the world for its power and intelligence. Its popularity is because of its excellence in activities such as rescue or life saving techniques, and the ability to swim. The Newfoundland dog is popular in India for its friendliness and it’s endearing appearance. Who doesn’t love a massive cuddly fur-ball of cuteness?
Availability Of The Newfoundland Dog In India
The Newfoundland dog, although very much popular for how it looks and what its characteristics are, is not always available in India. The demand for Newfoundland dogs is relatively lower than other breeds, and that is likely because of its size and certain other requirements.
Price Of A Newfoundland Dog In India
The price of a Newfoundland dog in India is between the range of ₹1,00,000 to ₹3,00,000.
Monthly Maintenance Cost Newfoundlands
The Newfoundland dog has to be groomed regularly in order to take care of its all year round shedding. It is best to groom your Newfoundland dog three to four times a week. Remember to have thick rags of cloth at your house because you will need a lot of those to wipe off their drool, and the dirt on their paws after walks or play times.
The monthly maintenance cost of a Newfoundland dog is expensive, and usually starts at around Rs. 30,000. You can either consider grooming your pet yourself to be able to bond with them all the more, or you can also hire a groomer, which will increase the expenses a bit more.
See also: Most Popular Dog Breeds in India
History and Popularity
The Newfoundland dog has its origins in Newfoundland, and is a descendant of a breed called St. John’s dog. DNA analysis of the Newfoundland dog shows results that say that the breed is related to Canadian breeds such as the Flat Coated Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever and the most common Labradors. In the late nineteenth century, the breed was used by colonial explorers and fishermen for several kinds of work such as hauling carts and pulling the fishnets. The St. John’s dog is known to be the founding breed of what we now know as modern retrievers.
The appearance of the Newfoundland Dog which makes it Molosser-like is perhaps due to the result of Mastiff blood. The Portuguese Mastiffs were most possibly bred with the St John’s breed some time in the sixteenth century.
Characteristics Of A Newfoundland Dog
The Newfoundland dog is strong but quite quiet. The breed is known for its broad and deep chest, and a leveled back. The Newfoundland dog has a thick and slightly curved tail, and small eyes that are generally dark brown in color. It has a muzzle on its head, rounded at the top. Its ears are set back and small in size, quite close to its head. Newfies are giant canines, usually around 6 feet in measurement from tail to nose, once fully grown. The male Newfoundland dogs generally weigh between 60 to 70 kilograms, while the female weights between 45 to 55 kgs.
The double coat of the body is water resistant and thick, and the undercoat is dense. One of the most fascinating aspects of the Newfoundland dog is the strength to even save a drowning person from the sea, in the middle of a storm. Their water resistant outer coat which is long and dense protects them while they are in the water. A special characteristic of the Newfoundland dog is that its jaw is slack and its mouth quite soft, which helps to retrieve without cursing any sort of damage.
Temperament
The Newfie is a breed that is calm and docile in nature. They are perfect working dogs and extremely loyal and trustworthy. The Newfoundland dog is also known as the “gentle giant” for its sweet temper. They are amazing friends to children. However, it is suggested to not leave too young children with a grown Newfie because they are too large in size. The breed is very well known for its ability in therapy and working as a nanny dog.
Lifespan of Newfoundlands
A Newfoundland dog lives for up to eight to ten years. However, there are exceptional cases where it lives up to fifteen years.
Are Newfoundland Dogs Hypoallergenic
No, the Newfoundland dog is not hypoallergenic. Since they are really furry pooches, expect them to shed a lot. While shedding is not the direct reason for allergies, it sort of acts as a carrier of dander, which is what results in allergic reactions.
See also: List of Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
Average Litter Size
The average litter size of the Newfoundland dog can be anywhere between 4-12.
What Is The Newfoundland Like As A Puppy
The Newfoundland puppies are large in size, and bring lots of fun because of their clumsiness! The Newfie puppies are completely social and absolutely love the company of humans, and especially young children. It is important to start training your Newfie puppy at a young age, so that they learn how to treat strangers and other necessary day-to-day greetings and other such socialisations.
Good Diet For Newfoundlands
The recommended diet plan for a Newfoundland dog is four to five cups of fry food a day. The food should be of high quality, and the food each day should be divided into two meals. The Newfie puppies require slow and steady growth. The recommended protein percentage for Newfoundland puppies is 22 to 24, and the fat percentage should be 12 to 15.
Health Concerns
There are various health concerns associated with the Newfoundland dog. This breed is prone to common issues such as dysplasia as well as elbow dysplasia. The Newfoundland dog is also known to have a hereditary defect which leads to formation of calculi stones in their bladders, and the subvalvular aortic stenosis which is a very serious heart problem.
1. Cystinuria is an autosomal recessive disease which is caused due to the high concentrations of amino acid cystine in the dog’s urine. This further forms cystine stones in the bladder, the ureter and the kidneys.
2. Subvalvular aortic stenosis or SAS is an abnormal congenital heart murmur which is caused by subaortic stenosis. It is similar to a heart attack, and can lead to death especially in puppies. This health concern is found in a lot of other large and giant dog breeds like Golden Retriever, English Bulldog, Rottweiler, German Shorthaired Pointer and others. The abnormality obstructs the heart to pump blood to the body, and the pumping speed tends to become higher, which further causes pressure in the aorta.
3. Addison’s Disease, also known as hypoadrenocorticism, is a condition where there is an insufficiency of the production of adrenal hormones. Due to this condition, the Newfoundland dog may have the symptoms of vomiting, lethargy and a poor appetite.
4. There are various eye problems that Newfies may have, including cataracts. Cataracts are caused due to gradual growth in age. Cataracts in younger Newfies can be treated through surgeries.
5. Cherry eye is another eye problem found in Newfoundland dogs which is an infection in the third eyelid glands. This condition, too, can be surgically dealt with.
Frequently Asked Questions about Newfoundland Dog
Can Newfoundland dog survive in India?
Yes, Newfoundland dog can survive in India! Though the climate is drastically different from what their breed usually prefers to live in. They have a lot of energy and are willing to adapt so that’s why it isn’t too difficult for them. Although it also largely depends in which part of India you live!
What is the price of a Newfoundland dog?
The price of a Newfoundland dog in India ranges from INR 1,00,000 to INR 3,00,000.
Are Newfoundlands easy to train?
Training a Newfoundland dog is relatively easier then training other breed of dogs. Training them as they grow up will help keep the destructive side of their personality at bay, and if you give your Newfoundland something to work on it can be one heckuva powerhouse!
Are Newfoundland dogs white?
The Newfoundland is a large, hardworking dog. These dogs can be either black, brown, grey or white-and-black and have been bred to help fisherman in Newfoundland with their work!
Why are Newfoundlands so expensive?
Newfoundlands are subject to several conditions which can be costly to treat: hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cruciate tears and bloat. Your best bet against these is to get your puppy only from a litter bred from OFA certified parents and grandparents. Yes this generally means paying more but you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your adoptee will likely live for 15-18 years.
Do Newfoundlands bark alot?
The Newfoundland is a big dog with a deep, loud bark. Just like with any other breed of dogs, barking is one way they communicate their messages to humans in general. Some Newfies are known for excessive or repetitive barking while others will hardly ever let out even the slightest woof – but all have their own unique personality and opinion on when it’s appropriate to make noise versus when silence would be more fitting.
Do Newfoundlands sleep a lot?
Newfoundland dogs are known for being some of the largest and laziest breeds around and they need their rest. They sleep more than humans, although not more than other breed of dog – especially when young pups start out and then taper off with age. They’ll enjoy plenty of attention and brain-teaser toys to keep active throughout the day if provided a stimulating environment that allows exercise along with downtime in between play sessions.
Do Newfoundlands like cuddling?
The Newfoundlands are known for their love of cuddles. They like to express their affection by nuzzling, laying on your lap and licking hands. Cuddle time can be managed with adequate attention, training and affection from the family or owner!
Are Newfoundland dogs dangerous?
The Newfoundland is a lover not a fighter, but he will make sure his family feels safe. Whoever said big dogs are pushovers was wrong about the Newfie!
Are Newfoundlands intelligent?
Gentle and intelligent, with a heart of gold. The Newfoundland has an amiability that is unmatched among other breeds! As one would expect from such as great breed, the Newfoundland loves being trained to do tricks and commands for humans; they have been known to enjoy it more than you might think. A family dog in every sense of the word–the loyal Newfie will always be by your side through thick or thin (and even water).
Are Newfoundlands lazy?
The Newfie has been called the gentle giant. They require a lot of encouragement to exercise, but it may refuse to move from its position even when encouraged enough, which might be a quite a challenge when dealing with a dog weighing upto 75 kg!
How big do Newfoundlands get?
The Newfoundland is a big dog with an even bigger appetite. They need to eat 8 pounds of food per day – feed them twice daily! A male Newfoundland can weigh up to 75 kg and stand 2 Feet 4 inches at the shoulder; females typically go 50 to 60 kg.
How much does a Newfoundland eat per day?
The Newfoundland is a big dog with an even bigger appetite. They need to eat 8 pounds of food per day – feed them twice daily!
What do Newfoundland dogs die from?
Newfoundland dogs are a sturdy breed and can live for over 12 years. However, they have been known to die from many things like heart disease or cancer due to their large sizes which makes them more vulnerable than smaller breeds.
Do Newfoundland dogs bite?
Absolutely not, Newfoundland dogs are very docile. Although any dog would typically growl and bite when situation arise, but newfies are know to be quite gentle.
Do Newfoundland dogs smell?
Yes, and they’re often wet. The Newfoundland’s coat is water-resistant, but it retains its smell underneath to keep the dog protected from cold weather. It can be difficult for people with sensitive noses to tolerate it sometimes! If you don’t want your own dogs smelling like that (especially if there are children), consider an enzyme wash or shampoo designed specifically for this breed of canine companion animal.
Can Newfoundlands be left alone?
Newfoundlands can be left alone for short periods of time but not for extended period time, also it is important that they are properly trained first. If not you may find them chewing on furniture or tearing up carpeting while you’re gone!
Is a Newfoundland a good guard dog?
Newfoundlands are a type of dog that aren’t known for being watchdogs. They don’t typically bark at strangers or other animals, but have strong bonds with their owners and will protect them from anything as long as they’re nearby.
Should I get a Newfoundland?
A Newfoundland makes a great dog for families with small children because they are very docile and easy to train. Many people also get them because they look like big puppies, which is really cute! A Newfoundland make the perfect family pet if you have kids who need constant supervision. The breed’s gentle temperament means that it wouldn’t hurt any child in its care while being able to give unconditional love at all times.
Do Newfoundland dogs get cold?
Newfoundlands are more tolerant of the cold than many humans. Check for wetness along their coat, which is typically water-resistant and double layered to keep them dry in water bodies and also from freezing in winter weather.
Are male or female Newfoundlands better?
It’s undeniable that Newfoundlands are usually great companions to have around, but if you’re looking for more playfulness and sociability, go with a male. Choose a female instead if you are looking for easier trainability and less chaos in the house.
Can Newfoundland dogs hike?
The Newfoundland is an active dog. They are not a slugger but they can easily turn into one if you make enough efforts to keep them active. Newfs need daily exercise to maintain their health and sanity, so make sure that you give your pup plenty of walks, hikes or whatever else it needs on the days when work prevents you from spending time with him!
Are Newfoundlands hard to potty train?
Newfoundlands are a sweet breed of dog with an even disposition and potty training them isn;t that difficult if you adopt the right way. For starters, it’s important that the owner be consistent when giving rewards for going in the right place or praising them after doing so. With consistency comes success! Be sure he has already emptied himself before being brought back inside (no pun intended!) – remember to praise again at each successful occasion.
Are Newfoundlands aggressive?
Newfoundlands are a sweet breed of dog, but if they feel threatened or cornered by strangers in their home turf, then it’s possible for them to become aggressive. Some studies suggests that Newfoundlands can be aggresive when feeling anxious or being physically hurt.
Are Newfoundland dogs good pets?
The Newfoundland is a gentle and loving dog that can also be great for kids. This breed has natural instincts to help people and make them excellent service dogs or family pets- it doesn’t matter as long as they have tasks! Newfoundlands are usually friendly with children, but this giant pup may not realize how big he actually is sometimes so watch out if your kids are near him.
Are Newfoundlands high maintenance?
Newfoundlands have a wet, oily coat that requires daily grooming. They shed heavily twice-yearly and require frequent bathing to keep from smelling bad as they can be prone to itchy skin conditions such as eczema. If you don’t want your furniture covered in dog hair or slobber marks than Newfies are not for you!
Is it OK to shave a Newfoundland dog?
In the summer, it is never recommended that you shave a Newfoundland as this can lead to sunburn. However, many dog owners are unaware of how much hair their dogs really need and end up shaving them too short which in turn leads to a whole host of problems such as skin irritation or even infections like yeast dermatitis. If you want your furry friend’s coat to stay cool during these hot months without having any adverse effects on his health then consult with an experienced groomer who will trim just enough off so they’re protected but not overheating – leaving plenty for protection against the elements!
How often should I bathe my Newfoundland?
Every six weeks a Newfie needs to be bathed and brushed. This sweet dog can only be washed every other week up to no more than 6 times in a year, or else it will cause the coat of this double-coated breed to become rough.
Do Newfoundlands need haircuts?
Newfoundlands are a big breed of dog. They’re not too tall, but they have long hair! It’s important to keep their coat clean and remove tangles as much as possible in order for them to get the full benefits of grooming. If you notice any bald patches on your Newfoundland’s fur, it might be time for that first haircut – just talk with your veterinarian or groomer about what is best depending on where these knots reside.
Do Newfoundlands like snow?
One of the most important thing to know about Newfoundlands is that they love snow. They come from the north, and so it’s no surprise when we see them plunging into a snowy field on chilly winter days!
Can a Newfoundland live outside?
In the freezing waters Newfies are known to be hearty and brave. The double-coat keeps them safe from icy water while its thickness is perfect for withstanding cold mornings, and hence they can stay out even on a slightly chilly nights.
What is the difference between a Landseer and a Newfoundland?
A lot of people get these two breeds mixed up but they are very different from one another. The Newfoundlands’s body should be stocky like that of an Irish Wolfhound, with their ears drooping down to about half way on his or her head. A Landseer has much finer features, being prone to more slender builds than its cousin breed does as well as taller in stature at around 25″ tall while weighing 100 pounds when fully grown.
Things To Take Note Of
The Newfoundland dog may be extremely huge in size, but that is also the amount of sweetness the breed has in store for you! The Newfoundland dog loves swimming and playing in water. They are also thirsty a lot, so it is important that you make sure your pet has plenty of access to drinking water. If you are looking forward to having a Newfoundland dog as your companion, be ready for drools and splashed water all around!
