A gentle water-rescue giant with a heart of gold.
Origin
Canada (Newfoundland)
Height
26–28 in (66–71 cm)
Weight
100–150 lb (45–68 kg)
Lifespan
9–10 years
Coat
Thick, water-resistant double coat
Energy
Low
Overview
The Newfoundland is a massive, sweet-natured working dog bred to haul nets and rescue drowning swimmers from cold Atlantic waters. Its webbed feet, water-repellent coat, and powerful swimming make it a legendary lifesaving breed.
Famously gentle and devoted, the “Newfie” is renowned as a “nanny dog,” patient and loving with children. Calm and dignified indoors, it is a serene companion whose enormous size requires attention to joints, heat, and drool.
History
Developed in Newfoundland, Canada, the breed worked alongside fishermen, hauling nets, carrying lines, and rescuing people from the water. Its strength, swimming ability, and gentle temperament made it a celebrated water-rescue dog.
Where it comes from
Canada (Newfoundland)
Highlighted in the Newfoundland's lineage color on the map.
Temperament
The Newfoundland is placid, affectionate, and famously good with children, generally friendly with people and animals. It is sensitive and eager to please, needing early training given its size and thriving on family companionship.
Health to watch
Joint malformation is common in giant breeds; screening and lean weight help protect the joints.
This inherited heart condition occurs in the breed; cardiac screening supports early detection.
The deep chest raises the risk of gastric torsion; smaller meals and rest around eating are wise.
General breed tendencies, not a diagnosis. Every dog is an individual — pair this with regular veterinary care.
Care essentials
The thick double coat needs regular brushing and sheds heavily; the breed tolerates cold far better than heat.
Controlled growth in puppyhood and lean weight protect the joints of this giant breed.
Newfies love water and struggle in heat; provide swimming, shade, and cool conditions.
XPET builds each pet a digital twin — modeling their real biology instead of breed averages, so care stays personal.