You don’t really appreciate some of the complexities of having a giant breed dog, until you have to live with one. They require big cars, big yards (and a big scoop), big collars, big beds and big people to move them around until they are well trained. A Newf that doesn’t want to move, is very difficult to get going.

Newfs require more brushing then the standard dog. Usually a combing with a wide-tooth comb a couple of times a week will handle it. If this is not done, the undercoat will mat making a much bigger mess. Newfs also require nail clipping and a little bit of trimming on the paws and around the ears.  During shedding time you may actually think your floor has changed color, but no it's just a big dog with a lot of fur.

During your time with a Newf, you will get drooled on, accept it. Also accept the fact that most people you bring into your house or meet on the street will also get drooled on. Honestly, most of the time, it isn’t a big problem. But after a long drink of water, after a big meal, after watching you eat, or on a hot day, you will almost always see a long strand of drool from your Newf’s mouth to the floor (sometimes more than one strand). Will you be thinking "how cute" or "how gross?" If it is the second, you better go elsewhere.

As with a lot of giant dogs, Newfs can be relatively short-lived. Usual life span can be 8 – 10 years.

Newfoundlands are known for being extremely even-tempered and gentle with children. A Newf will allow a child to pull at him and will "take" a lot more than most breeds of dog.

Newfoundlands don’t require a lot of activity to keep them healthy and slim. A daily, brisk walk and some time in a fenced back yard are really all that is necessary. But when required, they are more than capable to keep up with you, they just may sleep it off the next day.

A Newf is a site to see. The mix of its large size, massive head, huge chest and powerful body is sure to get people’s attention. It’s sweet and happy face and manner, will make them come over and say hi. Unfortunately the drool may make them take a quick exit.

Feeding a Newf the right food and the right amount is very important the first year of its life. A Newf puppy is going to grow a lot in its first year, and this growing should be done slowly. To encourage this you should not feed your Newf puppy food. Instead choose an Adult dog food that is low in protein.

Also make sure not to overfeed your Newf puppy. If the dog becomes fat it could generate health problems such as hip dysplasia.

Most breeds come with health problems that are common. Newfs are no difference. Make sure when selecting a breeder to ask what types of problems may run in their lines and whether they provide a guarantee of dog’s health. If a breeder won’t guarantee, then you can probably assume, they have had problems in the past.

Two of the most common genetic problems for Newfs are:

• Cardiac Problems