The Newfoundland is a large working dog. Although they can be various colours, before Newfoundland became part of Canada only black and landseer (black and white) coloured dogs were considered to be proper members of the breed.

The Newfoundland’s history is more speculation than fact. Little is known about his origins; one theory suggests that he descends from Great Pyrenees brought to Newfoundland by Basque fishermen, although why fishermen would have a flock-guarding dog on board their boat is unclear. Whatever his ancestors were, they probably arrived with fishermen from Europe.

The Newfoundland was taken to England where he became popular and was bred extensively. One well-known reference to a Newfoundland is Lord Byron’s tribute to his dog Boatswain, whom he describes as “One who possessed Beauty without Vanity, Strength without Insolence, Courage without Ferocity and all the Virtues of Man without Vices”

Newfies are portrayed as lifesavers in art and literature for good reasons: they are life savers. A Newfoundland names Rigel went down with the Titanic and swam next to a lifeboat for 3 hours in the icy water, apparently looking for his owner, who had gone down with the ship. The people in the lifeboat were nearly run down by the steamship Carpathia because the crew couldn’t hear their weak cries, but Rigel’s bark drew notice and the people and dog were saved.

The Newfoundland has a water-resistant double coat of black. Using a steel comb, groom the coat at least a couple of times a week to prevent mats and remove dead hair.

Newfies shed, and regular brushing will help reduce the amount of hair floating around your house. Twice a year, in spring and autumn they shed heavily called “Blowing Coat”. Plan to spend additional time brushing to keep all hair under control.