NEWFOUNDLAND

Brief description of the breed

Perhaps the most famous Newfoundland is the hero of the children's work "Peter Pan". Although the character is fictional, he perfectly illustrates the love of this breed for children.

The Newfoundland loves water, and his webbing between his fingers reminds of this. This is what influenced the fact that dogs of this breed often perform the duties of lifeguards on the water. Today, the Newfoundland is, above all, a companion dog. It has many positive qualities, but the gigantic size of the animal indicates that the pet may face various diseases. This must be taken into account when deciding on the acquisition of such a dog.

The Newfoundland is a calm, sweet and friendly animal, especially towards children. At the same time, the dog is ready to stand up both for himself and for his master. Despite the fact that this breed cannot be classified as active, nevertheless, the Newfoundland loves to swim and play in the water. This is the reason why dogs of this breed are regular participants in dog sports on the water.

Among other things, Newfoundlands will become excellent companions in any travels and hikes, because of this, many tourists and travelers become happy owners of these cute giants.

The weight of an adult dog can reach 50-75 kilograms! This suggests that the dog may develop pathologies of the musculoskeletal system, which leads to a reduction in the life of the animal. The truth happens it basically at negligent dog breeders.

Like any dog, the Newfoundland needs early socialization. Otherwise, the animal may be reserved and aggressive towards strangers and guests. For those who are not confident in their educational abilities, experts recommend giving the dog to a special class for dogs, where specialists will deal with your pet.

Like other puppies, Newfoundlands love to play, but due to their size, they can cause damage to the owner's property, for example, decor and interior items. This is another proof that puppies of this breed need early training and socialization, and, of course, a lot of attention.

It is necessary to start training from the first day the puppy appears in the house. At this age, the dog is fully manageable and most prone to learning. When training, don't forget to use the fundamental principles of praise and reward! If you plan to teach your pet water exercises, then such training must be done under strict supervision, it is best, of course, to contact a professional trainer.

The Newfoundland is the kind of dog that obliges you to have a secure fence in your yard. True, this does not mean that a pet can be kept directly in the yard or in an aviary. Your pet should live with you under the same roof!

Another important point that every Newfoundland owner should know is exercise in the first two years of life. During this period, the dog's skeleton goes through an active phase of formation, which means it is necessary to reduce heavy physical exertion, which can have a detrimental effect on the development of the ridge and the musculoskeletal system as a whole. During this period, there will be enough activities on the water, walks in the fresh air. At the same time, limit the load during runs. Such restrictions are mandatory until the pet reaches the age of two.

The history of the origin of the breed, for the most part, is an assumption, since there are few reliable facts about the appearance and development of the Newfoundland. According to one version, the Newfoundland appeared in the Pyrenees, from where later the fishermen brought this breed to Newfoundland.

According to other versions, the origins of the breed originate in France or in the Scandinavian countries. The only thing that is known for sure is that active breeding of the breed began on the Canadian island of the same name - Newfoundland. On the island, the dog was a faithful assistant to the fishermen, which influenced the development of a love of water in dogs. The constant presence near the water explains the presence of a thick, almost waterproof coat in the animal, webbing between the fingers. Newfoundlands helped move heavy fishing loads, rescued those drowning during shipwrecks, pulled children out of the water.

Later, the breed came to England, where it became very popular. Mentions of this breed are found even in the works of Lord Byron.

The Newfoundland breed has rightfully earned the title of rescuer of drowning people. According to the story told by one of the rescued passengers of the Titanic, the Newfoundland, who was on the ship with his master, jumped into the water and swam at the owner's boat until the steamer Carpathia came to the rescue. One way or another, dogs of this breed are truly amazing.

Newfoundland is known for its intelligence, loyalty and gentleness. Although this breed is guard rocks, Newfoundland - excellent family dog. The pet will enjoy spending time with the owner.

Among other things, the Newfoundland is a real helper for parents. A dog can follow children around a pond or a simple pool. This, of course, does not mean that children can be left unattended and rely only on an animal.

Sometimes, with insufficient education, Newfoundlands can show bad habits: digging, barking, etc. This also happens when the animal is bored. Please note that this behavior can be considered the norm in "adolescence" (from six months to a year), but you should not allow the animal to do this.

Newfoundland is the owner of a waterproof undercoat of brown, black or gray. Therefore, it is necessary to carefully comb out the coat with a metal brush a couple of times a week. This will help prevent the formation of spools and allow you to remove dead hair in a timely manner. Regular brushing will also prevent your pet's hair from spreading around the house.

Newfoundlands actively molt twice a year - in spring and autumn. During this period, it is necessary to comb the coat more often. Dogs of this breed are prone to profuse salivation. The owner of the Newfoundland will have to carry a napkin with him in order to wipe the dog's mouth in a timely manner. Bathe these dogs as needed.

The rest of the care is in the procedures that are common to most breeds. Nails are trimmed, as a rule, once every two weeks. You need to brush your teeth every week with a special toothpaste. You also need to make sure that the ears of the Newfoundland are dry, because these dogs are very fond of water.