White Newfoundland: The Gentle Giant

NewfoundlandThe white Newfoundland is a variety of the Newfoundland breed of dog. Originating from the Canadian province of Newfoundland, the breed belongs to the working group of dogs. The Newfoundland was originally bred as a working dog, helping fisherman in the province tug nets from the water and also assisting lumberjacks in towing logs from the freshly cut forests. The Newfoundland breed traditionally is coated in black or a black and white combination called Landseer, but the white Newfoundland is indeed all white in the coat.

The first feature that stands out in the breed is its sheer size. Often intimidating, full-grown Newfoundland’s can weigh anywhere between 120 and 175 pounds. This makes them one of the largest breed of dogs. But, despite their large size, the dogs have a very calm demeanor and are known for being wonderful family pets. They are well-known to be friendly around their family, children other dogs and towards strangers as well. From a young age, it is important to socialize the Newfoundland breed around people, sounds and other animals. The breed is known as the “Gentle Giants” of the dog world.

Like other dogs of similar large stature, the life expectancy rate of a Newfoundland is only eight to ten years. Their large size dispositions the breed to hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, Addison’s Disease, cancer and epilepsy.

As far as activity is concerned, the white Newfoundland is a very active breed. This makes living in small quarters like an apartment hard on the dog. Newfoundland dogs do best in open spaces and love the space to roam and exercise. Exercising the Newfoundland on a regular basis is a must. They also have webbed-feet, making them excellent swimmers as they love the water, especially in warm weather. The dog, due to its Canadian origins, is able to handle cold weather well with their thick coat and large stature. They have a harder time acclimating to hot, humid temperatures, making them an ideal pet in northern climates.

Inside of the home, there are a few items that potential owners of a Newfoundland need to be aware of. First, the dogs have a very thick coat and that thick coat definitely sheds. Newfoundland owners need to be aware that hair will be found throughout the house and on clothing. The second warning about the breed is that they are excessive droolers. As they walk around the house, their mouths are often wide open with their tongues lopping out with drool dripping off. Owners of a Newfoundland can expect to be wiping drool off of their clothes when the big, sweet baby nuzzles up to them closely. The final behavioral warning of a Newfoundland is their anxiety. They strive to please their people and desire to be around them at all times, so when left alone, separation anxiety can set in, causing the dog to chew on random items the house and causing damage.

Regarding the Newfoundland’s thick coat, the dogs need regular grooming. When done by the owner, special brushes will be required to brush the fur of matting and regular baths should also be a part of the grooming routine. Many Newfoundland owners take the route of seeing a professional dog groomer on a regular basis and paying an expert to properly groom their dog.

The white Newfoundland is a very trainable dog, though some individual dogs can be on the stubborn side. But, the breed is known for its smarts so it is best to start training the dog from a very young age. As they are known to be people pleasers, tons of praise works the best when training the dog. Also when training, it is important to keep in mind with this particular breed that punishment will cause the dog to not trust the owner, to positive reinforcement of behavior works the best.

The gentle giant of the dog world can make a great, loving family pet. Families that are considering the option of a dog should look at all of the features of the breed before deciding to bring one home. But, if a family can meet all the needs of a white Newfoundland dog, they are sure to make the family happy with their love for many years.