GENERAL APPEARANCE
Shoulder height: 66-71cm (26”-28”).
Colour: Black or brown with or without some white on the chest or tail tip.
Black and white (Landseer).
Coat: Oily, flat, dense outercoat - thick undercoat. Gait: Free, slightly rolling. Fore feet may not turn out.
These noble, massively built water and draught dogs impress with their great strength - they weight between 50-69kg (110-1501b). The massive skull with its developed occiput, is set off with a rather short square muzzle. The small widely set eyes are tight rimmed and the ears lie flat to the cheek. Both neck and body are strong and muscular, and the chest is deep. Fore and hindquarters are well angulated and muscled and the large feet are webbed to assist in swimming. Tails often hang down in repose but when gaiting, are carried out with a slight curve at the end.
CHARACTERISTICS AND CARE
Recorded feats have established that the Newfoundland is a dog whose endurance and working abilities in water are far above average. Their affinity with people and protective instincts have saved many a person from drowning after being washed off fishing vessels. They make wonderful nursemaids to families with young children and due to their size can accept a certain amount of rough handling. Bearing in mind their natural characteristics, Newfoundlands should never be relegated to a lonely life in a yard. Their coats need little care. Periodic brushing removes dead hair.
HISTORY
While it is certain that this breed was established in Newfoundland off the east coast of Canada, the actual evolution of the breed is somewhat obscure. One of the most popular theories is that the Basque fishermen brought their white Pyrenean Mountain dogs over from France in the 17th century. These were crossed with the local black Labrador which would account for the colours of black, brown and the black/white ‘Landseers’. Besides being intrepid rescue dogs they also assisted fishermen by carrying lines from one boat to another. On land, these dogs also served as draught dogs.