Newfoundland

Traditionally, the Newfoundland has been used for a variety of different jobs, not just in his historic role as a water rescue dog. but also as a working dog, doing the jobs of drafting, sledging and hauling. His talents include being able to dive and swim underwater!

In order to perform these duties, the Newfoundland required many attributes. To begin with, he needed to be big enough to pull ashore a drowning man, gentle enough to retrieve children from ponds, strong enough to pull carts or carry heavy loads on his back, plus clever enough to effect a rescue without direction. Add to this a heavy coat to protect him from the icy sea, and webbed feet to help him travel over marshland.

Today's "Newfie" is all this and more! The sweetest of dogs, he is kindly, affectionate, patient and dignified. A gentle, trustworthy giant, he is the perfect children's playmate, family guardian, and all-round companion dog rolled up in one. As Lord Byron wrote about the breed ... "Courage without ferocity. And all the virtues of man without his vices".

The traditional Newfoundland coat colour is black, but they also come in black and white (Landseer) and bronze. The water-resistant double coat requires regular grooming, but is not difficult to maintain. Free exercise and regular walks are desirable, but not to excess.

Ideal height: Dogs 71cm
Bitches 66cm
Weight Dogs 63.5 - 68kg
Bitches 50 - 54.5kg

Flying Dogs (real name Birds)