Newfoundlands are one of the largest dog breeds — males commonly reach 60–70 kg — and one of the most profoundly gentle. They were developed in Newfoundland as working water dogs: pulling fishing nets, hauling carts, and, famously, rescuing people from the sea. Their swimming ability, water-resistant double coat, and enormous lung capacity are not coincidental. They are built for this.
Drool Is Part of the Agreement
Newfoundlands drool. Not occasionally — as a lifestyle. The jowl structure that helps them grip and retrieve from water creates a significant drool situation at rest, after drinking, and especially when food is nearby. Keep a "slobber cloth" accessible in every room. Accept that your dark clothing will have white patches. This is not a bug in the breed — it is a feature of the build.
Heat: The Serious Constraint
A 65 kg dog in a heavy double coat in summer is at serious heatstroke risk. Exercise only in early morning and late evening in warm weather. Provide shade and cool fresh water constantly. Pool or paddling pool access in summer is more than enrichment — for a Newfie, it's thermoregulation. Know heatstroke signs: heavy panting, thick drool, confusion, collapse. Act immediately.
Common Health Conditions
- Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) and Sub-Aortic Stenosis (SAS): Cardiac conditions are significantly overrepresented in Newfoundlands. Annual cardiac auscultation from age 1 (earlier than most breeds) and echocardiography from age 2 are recommended. Reputable breeders cardiac-screen all breeding stock.
- Hip and elbow dysplasia: Very common at this size. OFA/BVA scores from both parents. Lean weight throughout life reduces progression.
- Bloat (GDV): Deep-chested giant breed — significant risk. Twice-daily feeding, slow feeder, no exercise around meals. Discuss gastropexy.
- Cystinuria: A metabolic disorder causing bladder stones. More common in males. Genetic testing available.
Puppyhood: The Slow-Growth Imperative
Giant breed puppy food only. High-calcium puppy food in a breed growing to 65 kg causes skeletal development problems. No high-impact exercise before 18-24 months. No stairs repeatedly. No jumping from heights. The growth plates close late in giant breeds; damage done during this window is permanent.
Newfoundland Care Summary
- Cardiac screening from year 1 — earlier than most breeds.
- No exercise in heat — provide water and shade.
- GDV prevention: twice-daily feeding, slow feeder, no exercise around meals.
- Giant breed puppy food; no high-impact before 18-24 months.
- OFA/BVA hip and elbow scores from both parents.
Track your Newfoundland's health calendar, cardiac reminders, and weight on the Woofio Newfoundland care page.