Newfoundland dogs, sometimes called “Newfs” by their owners, are one of the largest and sweetest dog breeds. Famed for their immense size, calm demeanor, and water-rescuing skills, Newfoundlands have long been popular companions in their native Canada as well as other parts of the world like Australia.

A Brief History of the Newfoundland Breed

Newfoundlands originated on the Canadian island of Newfoundland, which gave the breed its name. During the 16th century, settlers brought dogs from Europe to the island to help them with fishing and water rescue missions. Those dogs bred with existing native dogs and developed into the powerful, webbed-pawed swimmers known today as the Newfoundland.

The typical Newfoundland dog lifespan is 8-10 years, though some live as long as 12 or 13 years. As with many giant breeds, their large size puts more stress on major organs like the heart. With proper care and a healthy lifestyle, most Newfs can enjoy almost a decade of loyal companionship. Keeping them at a healthy weight and avoiding excessive exercise when young is important for maximizing their lifespan potential.

In their native Newfoundland, the breed was used to pull fishing nets and lines from the water and rescue fishermen who fell overboard. Their excellent swimming skills and gentle nature made them perfect for water rescue work. Once they were exported to English colonies, Newfoundlands continued serving as friendly companions, haulers, and water rescuers.

Today the breed remains popular as a family pet due to its calm temperament, loyalty, and gentle giant size. While less commonly used for water work now, their history as water rescue dogs is what defined the Newfoundland’s admirable characteristics, which endear them to owners worldwide.

Newfoundland Dog Size in Feet

According to kennel club breed standards, the ideal weight range for an adult male Newfoundland is between 130-150 pounds, while females typically weigh 110-130 pounds. But their sheer size is perhaps best measured in feet rather than pounds.

Male Newfoundlands average around 27-29 inches tall at the shoulder. This puts their head at around waist height for the average adult human! Females are only slightly smaller at around 25-27 inches tall. In length from nose to tail, Newfoundlands can stretch over 6 feet when fully grown.

Add to this their wide barrel chests, broad paws, and impressive furry coats. Newfoundlands are truly giants among dog breeds. Owners should be physically strong enough to handle and control an adult Newf, as even gentle giants can accidentally knock over small children in play. Their hugeness also means allocating significant space, both indoors and out, for Newfoundland’s needs.

Newfoundland Dog Price

While their prodigious size might imply high costs, the price of purchasing a well-bred Newfoundland dog is moderate compared to other giant breeds. The average cost of a Newfoundland puppy from a responsible breeder ranges between $1,500 to $3,000 AUD depending on the bloodline and lineage.

At the lower end of the price spectrum, puppies may be less expensive if they come from a hobby breeder located further away. Top-rated breeders who show and title their dogs can charge closer to $3,000 per puppy. Adopting an adult Newfoundland from a shelter is often more affordable at $500-800.

Additional initial costs include purchasing a crate, bedding, food bowls, leash/collar, and other supplies. As with any large breed, the budget for annual veterinary care includes wellness checks, vaccinations, flea/tick prevention, heartworm prevention if needed, and potential orthopedic issues screening as they age. High-quality food and preventative healthcare will help maximize a Newfoundland’s lifespan.

Newfoundland Dog Colors

Newfoundlands come in only a few recognized color varieties according to breed standards:

• Black: Deep chocolate to jet black with black pigment around the eyes, nose, lips, and foot pads. These black “points” distinguish the coat color from recessive red.
• Brown: Ranging from chocolate to lighter wheaten shades. Typically, with black points like the black variety.
• Gray: Shades from blue to lighter slate tones. May have minimal spotting of white hairs through the coat but not a primarily white dog.
• Landseer: White base coat with large dark spots or patches of black and/or brown coloring. Must have at least 30% dark patches.

While other colors like pure white or cream exist, these are considered faults by breed organizations. Black and brown remain the most commonly seen varieties in the show ring and pet homes. Newfoundland puppies are often born black/brown, and their permanent adult colors emerge by 18 months of age.

Buy or Adopt a Newfoundland Dog?

For those seeking to welcome Newfoundland into their family, deciding whether to buy a puppy or adopt an adult dog involves weighing various factors. Here’s a quick overview:

Buying a puppy:

• Cost is $1,500-$3,000 from a reputable breeder
• You get the breed standard and temperament you desire
• Can train and bond from a young age
• Puppies require more time/effort than adults

Adopting an adult:

• Shelter adoption fee is $500-800
• Often house trained and past chewing stages
• May come with training/obedience already
• Age, medical history is unknown
• Breed standards cannot always be guaranteed

For first-time owners or families with young kids, an adult Newf from a rescue may adapt more easily. Those eager for the puppy experience should prepare financially and with time to raise a giant breed. Overall, both options can result in a loyal companion – just determine needs based on lifestyle.

Choosing Between Grey or White Newfoundlands

For owners deciding between the grey or white variations of the Newfoundland breed, here are a few key differences:

Grey Newfoundlands:

• Coat colors range from blue to slate tone shades
• Minimal white spotting may be present
• Recognized by breed standards as the classic color
• Slate tones tend to show dirt/stains more easily

White “Landseer” Newfoundlands:

• Base coat is pure white with large dark patches
• Must have minimum 30% coverage of black/brown patches
• Colors create classic painting-like markings
• Easier to keep clean but patches require trimming

Both variations are equally sweet, hardy dogs. Greys blend in less on pale furniture, but white hair will show more on dark clothing. Some prefer Landseers due to their unique look. Choosing often comes down to color preference rather than temperament differences. Consider how the coat impacts grooming/cleaning needs with an enormous dog.

Newfoundland Dog FAQs:

1. Is a Newfoundland a good family dog?

Yes, Newfoundlands generally make excellent family dogs due to their gentle, patient nature. They are affectionate yet also calm enough to do well with children. Their immense size requires supervision with young kids to avoid accidental knocks, but Newfs have a soft mouth, so they won’t bite like some smaller breeds. With proper socialization from a young age, they bond closely with their whole family. High intelligence also means Newfoundlands can learn basic commands. Their size alone deters strangers, providing security. With regular exercise and mental stimulation, Newfoundlands thrive in homes with kids of all ages.

2. What is special about Newfoundland dogs?

A few unique qualities that make Newfoundlands special include their massive size yet gentle temperament. At up to 150 pounds, they are giants by nature yet maintain a calm, peaceful demeanor even with rowdy children or strangers. Their thick, water-resistant coats also provide innate cold water rescue abilities – evolved skills helping early settlers in icy Canadian waters. Newfoundlands are highly loyal and affectionate. Beyond looks, they bond closely via personalities full of calm, steadiness, good humor, and patient energy perfect for families. Water activities provide joy, yet Newfs equally love lazy afternoons indoors. Their charisma is almost as big as their famed size which continues to endear them worldwide.

3. Are Newfoundlands the biggest dog in the world?

While Newfoundlands are definitely giant-sized, they actually don’t hold the record as the biggest dog breed in terms of height or weight. That honor goes to the Irish Wolfhound, which averages 75-95 pounds heavier than male Newfoundlands at 200+ pounds. However, Newfoundlands are still immense in stature overall.

Standing 29 inches at the shoulder on average for males, Newfoundlands are proportional to their weight in ways that make them arguably the largest dog breed visually. Their broad chests and thick coats lend further impression of largeness. When including their typical 6+ foot full body length, Newfoundlands dominate in sheer size presence compared to most other breeds.

While not the absolute record holder, Newfoundlands can still be considered among the biggest dog breeds. Their dual qualities of immense size and calm temperament are what truly set them apart from even larger giants like Irish Wolfhounds that tend towards more energetic spirits. For a gentle family companion of tremendous stature, the Newfoundland remains unmatched despite technical weight classifications.

4. How much exercise do Newfoundlands need?

While their size might imply laziness, Newfoundlands actually need moderate daily exercise, such as one to two hours of walking or playing. Their thick double-coat contributes to shedding body heat, so swimming is a preferred warm-weather activity that uses their talented water skills. Off-leash time should be supervised due to their friendly nature, which could lead them to follow strangers instead of coming when called. Mental enrichment like obedience training, puzzle toys, and tasks prevent boredom for their smart breed. Proper exercise maintains health and prevents weight gain, which could burden joints and vital organs over time.

5. Are Newfoundlands good for allergy sufferers?

Probably not. Newfoundlands are considered a non-hypoallergenic breed due to their tendency to shed profusely year-round. Their thick double coat requires significant high-maintenance grooming to remove loose dead hairs. Heavy shedding means dander and skin flakes get airborne easily. While some individuals may have mild reactions, most people with dog allergies would likely still suffer symptoms from prolonged Newfoundland exposure. Low-shed or non-shedding breeds like Poodles provide a better option for allergy households.Â

In conclusion, Newfoundlands truly earn their name as gentle giants. With enough research prepared, owners can ensure that these noble dogs are provided with everything they need to thrive as valued family companions. From temperament to size to care requirements, gain a full understanding before deciding if a Newf is suitable for your lifestyle. But for the right homes, their immense yet peaceful spirits continue delighting doting families for generations to come.