The Newfoundland Dog
The Newfoundland or Newf/Newfie is known as a "Gentle Giant"
Newfoundlands have web feet and love water, enjoy swimming although there are a few that don't. If you are house proud then a Newfoundland will not be the dog for you. They shed a large amount of hair that seem to find their way everywhere, meals will never be the same again, those single newfie hairs will always turn up, how they find their way into pre packed sandwiches is beyond me.
No house if free of slobber. The true Newfie will decide to come in after a nice walk, shake his head and you will be amazed at the amount of slobber that is now draped on your walls and ceilings;
Newfies are like large sponges, they collect the rain and mud then wait till they come indoors to shake and nothing is spared, floors, walls, furniture and meals if you happen to have one on the table.
You need to have a considerable amount of time on your hands to groom your Newfie; they have a double coat that easily tangles and knots so you need to keep on top of this. Failure to groom correctly can result in major skin problems. It's particularly important to groom thoroughly around the ears and under the tail where faeces can easily collect in the long coat. Newfies can begin to smell if not groomed regularly. Lack of coat care can result in considerable distress to the dog and your pocket when you are met with large veterinary bills.
Feeding can be rather expensive. A big dog particularly a growing puppy will need considerable amounts of quality food, in order to obtain correct size. Failure to feed correctly can result in bone and growth problems. Bear in mind this is a giant breed, tins of dog food are NOT adequate. Large dogs deposit a large amount of waste usually in the middle of your flower bed. You must clean up regularly or your exercise area will soon become a minefield.
Newfoundlands are very good with children and can be very protective of them if need be, their temperament should be that of reliable and loving. A Newfie loves companionship, so if you work full time and expect to leave your Newfie alone for long periods then this is not the dog for you.
You also need time on your hands to walk your Newfie everyday. They love long country walks especially near rivers, lakes or the sea. Consider attending dog training before your dog gets to large to handle. A fully grown Newfie can easily weigh more than a human; if he says we go there, you will go there unless he has been taught some manners.
Gardens, what garden? Enjoy your garden before your Newfie arrives as it won't last, Newfies love digging and while you plant that treasured rose bush, two minutes later you will find your Newfie planting it on your settee.
Don't forget a lot of plants are poisonous so you would need to check that your garden is safe for your new friend.
A Newfie is strong yet gentle, devoted, protective and a faithful companion..jpg)