Newfoundland puppies are the epitome of gentle giants in the canine world. Originating from the Canadian province of Newfoundland, these dogs were historically used by fishermen to haul nets and carry boat lines to shore, thanks to their extraordinary swimming abilities and muscular build. With their dense water-resistant coat, large paws, and strong limbs, Newfoundland puppies show early signs of their impressive strength and love for the water. Despite their large size, they are exceptionally gentle and patient, making them great family pets. Here are five fun Newfoundland puppy facts and pictures!
Newfoundlands are great swimmers
Newfoundlands or “Newfies” are born swimmers. Their webbed feet give them a powerful edge in the water, making them some of the best canine swimmers out there. With a waterproof coat that’s thicker than your winter duvet, Newfies take to water like ducks. They were originally bred to help haul nets for fishermen and rescue drowning people, a job they took to like professionals. Their swimming abilities are so widely recognized that they have earned the nickname “lifeguard dogs.” One of the most famous Newfoundlands, “Seaman,” accompanied Lewis and Clark on their expedition, serving as a hunter, retriever, and guard dog.
The puppies have a bear-like appearance
Newfoundland puppies look more like baby bears than domestic dogs when they’re little. With their fluffy, dense coats, broad heads, and deep eyes, it’s easy to do a double-take if you spot one in the wild. This bear-like appearance only adds to their charm and makes them irresistible to cuddle — not that they’d mind, considering their gentle and loving nature. As they grow, their size and strength become more apparent, but they retain that soft, huggable look that makes them so appealing. Interestingly, their size and looks can be deceiving. Despite resembling a small bear, Newfoundland dogs have one of the kindest temperaments you’ll find in the canine world.
Newfies possess a nanny instinct
If Mary Poppins were a dog, she’d be a Newfoundland. These gentle giants are known for their remarkable nanny instinct towards children. It’s not uncommon for Newfoundlands to show inherent patience and protectiveness around kids, making them excellent family pets. This instinct has its roots in their history; Newfoundland dogs were often the trusted guardians of the fishermen’s children in their native land.
Newfoundland dogs shed … a lot
Newfoundland puppies are undeniably adorable, but future owners should brace themselves for a furry storm. These pups shed copiously, especially during the spring and fall. Their thick double coat requires regular grooming. As such, regular brushing can become a bonding activity in addition to being a necessity to manage their shedding and keep their coat healthy. If you’re considering a Newfoundland puppy, you might also want to consider investing in a good vacuum cleaner and lint rollers!
Newfoundland puppies are a breeze to train
Despite their size, Newfoundland puppies are surprisingly easy to train. Their eagerness to please, combined with their intelligence, makes them responsive to positive reinforcement and gentle guidance. Newfies are quick learners and are always keen on making their owners happy, which translates to a training experience that’s as rewarding as it is effective. They excel in obedience, water work, and even therapy work, showcasing their versatility and willingness to tackle new challenges. However, it’s essential to start training early and maintain consistency, as their size can make them a handful if you do not properly guide them from a young age.
Owning a Newfoundland puppy dog comes with its own set of significant responsibilities. Their impressive size necessitates ample living space, and their dense coats require regular grooming to keep them healthy and comfortable. Additionally, early socialization and consistent, patient training are key in nurturing their natural predisposition towards friendliness and calmness. So, if your heart and home are big enough for this sizable commitment, a Newfoundland might just be the perfect new addition to your family.
Thinking of bringing one of these cute pups home? Always remember to adopt, not shop!
