Dogs, no matter their size or color, make the best companions. Newfoundlands, for one, are highly regarded not just for their massive size but also for their gentle and loving characteristics. Ranked as the fifth biggest largest dog breed in the world, they tower over almost everyone, from fellow canines to people, in just a matter of months. These dogs got their name from the Canadian islet of – wait for it – Newfoundland. Their crazy size, coupled their capability of withstanding freezing temperatures and innate strength made them ideal companions for those who needed help in strenuous tasks like pulling fishing nets and hauling wood. They can even save someone from drowning!
Aside from their strength and skills, Newfoundlands are admired for list of other reasons. For one, their kind nature adds to their charm. In fact, their sweet, gentle, and protective demeanor when around children have earned them the nickname “nanny dog”. They’ve got a lot to give, that’s for sure! And these people have made extra room to welcome these gentle, fluffy giants into their lives. Check them out below:
“Got Sebastian a safety vest because people need to know he is #notabear”
“Just a Newfoundland taking his pony for a walk”
“This is a Newfoundland dog. Not a bear.”
“Thought a bear broke in. Nope, just a Newfie.”
“I love it when my Newfie meets a smaller dog”
“150 pounds later and he’s still a lap dog”
Newfoundlands make perfect companions
If you look back in history, you’ll find Newfoundlands there quite a lot. One of the most notable Newfoundlands goes by the name “Seaman”. The Newfoundland accompanied Lewis and Clark in their 8,000-mile trek across America in 1802. Among Seaman’s accomplishments during his time with the explorers was saving them from a rogue buffalo.
Senator Robert Kennedy also kept a Newfoundland, who he named Brumus. The late senator was known to be fond of animals, with Brumus being his favorite. In fact, Brumus often accompanied him in his office when he served as Attorney General during his brother’s administration. Newfies remain to be used as lifeguards and rescue dogs because of their strength and swimming skills. It is important to note that these enormously talented floofs live somewhere between 8 – 10 years.
“When the lap is too small for you but you don’t mind because you are a god boy.”
“16 months apart”
“Honey at 14 weeks having a hug with one of her hoomans, Cameron… don’t think he will be able to pick her up for much longer!”
“Happy Thanksgiving.”
Caring for them is a great responsibility
Sadly, these gentle giants’ owners often up giving them up for adoption. One of the main reasons behind this is that the original owners find themselves overwhelmed and unprepared for the responsibility of keeping a Newfoundland. For starters, these dogs require more dog food than their other canine counterparts. They can gain up to 100 pounds in the first year of life alone, after all! And if you think running and playing with your Husky is hard work, try playing with a Newfoundland. Their enormous lung capacity and energy will most likely wear you out before they even begin to feel the least bit tired!
“Me and my bestie”
“Tryna live the lap dog life! Dad may be smiling but on the inside he’s saying ‘Please help me, my ribs are getting crushed’.”
“Look behind yooooou….”
“That’s a Queen-sized bed. and 175lb Newf.”
“It’s Dalishush.”
Grooming them is serious business
Furthermore, keeping them neat is another important aspect owners must pay close attention to. Their exceptionally thick and waterproof coats need to be brushed regularly. They tend to shed pretty heavily so this is a must. And since they have really, really thick fur, Newfoundlands are more amiable to keep in places with naturally cold climates.
Owners who live in warmer areas must specially keep their Newfie where there’s air conditioning or ample water, especially when it’s really hot, to keep them from suffering heat stroke. To prevent their feet from splaying under their immense weight, owners must regularly have their Newfie’s nails trimmed. Those planning to welcome a Newfound into their home must also prepare their home for lots (and we mean A LOT) of drool coupled with their astoundingly adorable antics.
“It’s a bear! It’s a mammoth! No it’s a giant dog!”
“I heard it’s tongue out Tuesday.”
“Buford and Wallace, 11 weeks old”
“A bit too big for the lap.”
“Just laying with my Newfie.”
They may seem intimidating but they’re the biggest sweethearts you’ll ever know
“If there’s snow, the Newfie will sit.”
“My parent’s Newfie pup made it pretty clear that she’s a big girl already and doesn’t like to be lifted up”
“My Newfie used to fall asleep with his head in the toilet”
“Straight Not Giving a F*** 2: Revenge of the Newfie”
“This is beyond a head tilt!”
It’s pretty clear to see why many make extra rooms in their homes and hearts for these gentle giants. They’re bigger than an average person. It’s actually a running joke among owners that they’re actually caring for a bear, not a dog, given their super thick fur coats. Have you ever seen a Newfie in person or do you count one as a part of your family? Tell us about it in the comments!
“Ollie likes to come to tennis practice and help out!”
“My boyfriend’s Newfoundland waiting to go to the beach.”
“Just shaved my Newfoundland. Look at his new hairstyle. What a dude.”
“Just a peek.”
“Ready for roadtrip.”
