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Newfoundland Dog Characteristics and Diseases

Newfoundland Dog

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Newfoundland

 

Origin: Canada
Popularity Rank: 41 Since 2020
Life Span: 9-12 years
Color:  “Newfoundland colors” can be black, brown, grey, or white colors.
Size: Large in size
Height: The “Newfoundland height” of the Male is 71 cm (28 inches) and the Female height is 66 cm (26 inches).
Breed Group: “Newfoundland dog” belongs to the working group.
Pricing:  “Newfoundland dog Price” ranges are from $1700 – $2500.
Weight: Males’ weight is 65-80 kg (143-176 lb), and females’ weight is 55-65 kg (121-143 lb), placing them in the “Giant” weight range. However, some Newfoundland dogs weigh more than 90 kg (200 lb), and the highest recorded weight is 120 kg (260 lb)

Newfoundland Dog History

The “Newfoundland dog” breed first appeared in Canada in the 18th century. The “Newfoundland breed” is a large and powerful working group dog. They were initially developed and employed as working dogs for Newfoundland fishermen. Moreover, in the provinces of “Newfoundland and Labrador”, they are still employed as working dogs hauling boats or serving as pack horses.

“Hairy Dog,” a Newfoundland dog who lived in the early 19th century, was among the most well-known breeds ever. Hairy Dog is said to have saved numerous lives, thus becoming a symbol of the breed’s bravery and loyalty. His selfless deeds and the subsequent registration of the breed in England solidified the Newfoundland’s reputation as a water rescue dog.

Newfoundland dogs excelled not just in water rescue but also on land. They were renowned for their power and stamina, which made them great draught animals. They were frequently used to carry out additional heavy duties, such as dragging sleds and carts.

Several US presidents, including Lyndon B. Johnson, Ulysses S. Grant, and James Buchanan, had grown these dogs. These dogs gained notoriety as “nanny dogs” by caring for the 11 children of Senator and Mrs. Robert F. Kennedy. In 1886, the American Kennel Club officially registered the Newfoundland dog as its 32nd breed.

Newfoundland Dog Qualities

“Newfoundland dog breed” is known for their large size, intelligence, tremendous strength, calm demeanor, love of children, and loyalty. They jump into the water to rescue or save the life of others due to their strong muscular build, thick double coat, webbed paws, and swimming abilities. Furthermore, they are more than 1.8 m from nose to tail.

It is one of the giant dog breeds. Water Rescue Instincts: One of the most impressive characteristics of Newfoundland dogs is their natural affinity for water and outstanding swimming abilities. They are well-suited for water rescues due to their webbed feet, thick double coat, and strong frame. Because of their innate swimming abilities and excellent retrieving instincts, they have proven to be invaluable in water rescue operations.

“Newfoundland dogs” are enormous and powerful and often called “gentle giants.” Despite their size, they are often mild in their interactions and approachable. They make excellent family companions and therapy dogs because of their kind demeanor and protective instincts. Newfoundland dog breed is well-known for their patience and compassion with children. They have a nurturing personality and are frequently called “nanny dogs” because of their protective and caring tendencies towards younger family members. They are exceptionally kind and tolerant, which makes them a popular choice for families with children.

Strong Work Ethic

Newfoundland dogs were historically developed as working dogs and used for various duties, such as pulling nets for fishermen and lugging cargo. They have a strong work ethic and are eager to perform physically demanding duties. Even in modern times, they can demonstrate strong work instincts and thrive in tasks like drafting and trekking.

Newfoundland Dog Body

The Newfoundland dogs have big bones. Large muscles give it a significant force to withstand choppy ocean waves and heavy tides. Due to their extraordinary lung capacity, these canines can swim extraordinarily far distances. Moreover, they have multiple coatings that are thick, greasy, and waterproof, which shield them from the icy water. The dog drools, especially in warmer weather, due to sagging lips and jowls. They do not experience fear or hostility.

Newfoundland dogs are intelligent and enthusiastic. These dogs’ skulls are flat, broad, and massive. They have a sizeable back body and are well-ribbed. The front legs are very straight and well-muscled. They have a big, deep chest and well-covered hair. Besides, these dog breeds have large, attractive feet. Their skulls are covered in short hair, and their small, dark-brown eyes are square.

Coat

The unique coat of the “Newfoundland dog” provides protection and insulation in various weather conditions.

Dense Undercoat

Newfoundland Breeds  have a dense and soft undercoat that provides insulation and warmth beneath the outer coat.

Heavy Maintenance

A Newfoundland dog’s coat must be groomed regularly to keep it healthy and manageable. This includes brushing regularly to avoid matting and remove loose fur. Pay extra care to the ears, paws, and tail is critical to avoid moisture buildup and subsequent illnesses.

Seasonal Coat Adaptation

Newfoundland dogs can change the thickness of their coats depending on the season. During the colder months, their coat thickens to give more insulation and protection. The coat may lighten and become less dense in warmer weather.

Shedding

Newfoundland dogs shed a lot, especially during seasonal coat blows. On average, they lose their undercoat, often known as “blowing coat,” twice a year. During this time, their shedding can be reasonably heavy, necessitating frequent brushing and grooming to keep loose fur under control.

Newfoundland dogs come in various coat colors, including black, brown, grey, and Landseer (black and white with distinguishing markings). Black is the most common color. White markings on the breast, toes, or tail tip are also possible.

Newfoundland Dog Health Issues

Cystinuria, Cardiac, hip, elbow, and bloat disease are the most common diseases in these dogs. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Hip and elbow dysplasia are orthopedic diseases affecting Newfoundland dogs’ joints. Dysplasia occurs when the hip or elbow joints do not develop normally, resulting in pain, lameness, and the possibility of arthritis.

Subaortic Stenosis

Subaortic Stenosis is a congenital cardiac ailment that affects the Newfoundland breed. It is distinguished by the constriction of the aorta, the primary blood vessel that transports blood from the heart to the rest of the body. This condition can cause cardiac murmurs, fainting, and heart failure in the worst-case scenario.

Dilated Cardiomyopathy

DCM is a cardiac muscle condition that causes it to weaken and expand. This disorder, which can result in heart failure, irregular cardiac rhythms, and death, may be predisposed to Newfoundland dogs.

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia

Hip and elbow dysplasia are orthopedic diseases affecting Newfoundland dogs’ joints. Dysplasia occurs when the hip or elbow joints do not develop normally, resulting in pain, lameness, and the possibility of arthritis.

Subaortic Stenosis

Subaortic Stenosis is a congenital cardiac ailment that affects the Newfoundland breed. It is distinguished by the constriction of the aorta, the primary blood vessel that transports blood from the heart to the rest of the body. This condition can cause cardiac murmurs, fainting, and heart failure in the worst-case scenario.

Dilated Cardiomyopathy

DCM is a cardiac muscle condition that causes it to weaken and expand. This disorder, which can result in heart failure, irregular cardiac rhythms, and death, may be predisposed to Newfoundland dogs.

Treatment

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia

Veterinarians treat hip and elbow dysplasia in Newfoundland dogs using various methods. These methods include managing weight to decrease joint stress, administering nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief, implementing physical therapy exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the joints, and providing joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin. In severe cases, surgery, such as total hip or elbow replacement, may be necessary.

Subaortic Stenosis

Veterinarians determine the treatment for SAS in Newfoundland dogs based on the severity of the condition. They manage mild cases through regular monitoring and the administration of symptom management medicines. In extreme situations, they may perform surgical interventions, such as balloon valvuloplasty or open-heart surgery, to correct the aortic constriction.

Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Medications to modulate heart function, such as beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors, commonly treat Dilated Cardiomyopathy in “Newfoundland dogs”. Dietary changes, such as a low-sodium diet, may also be advised. Regular veterinary check-ups and cardiac function monitoring are critical for controlling this illness.

Cystinuria

Treatment for cystinuria in Newfoundland dogs may include food modifications, drugs to prevent stone formation, and increased water consumption to encourage urine dilution. In some circumstances, surgical intervention may be required to remove existing stones or resolve urinary blockages.

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus

It is a medical emergency that necessitates immediate veterinary treatment. GDV treatment in Newfoundland dogs consists of stabilizing the dog’s condition, which may include intravenous fluids, stomach decompression, and surgery to untwist the stomach (gastropexy) and prevent a recurrence.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

There is currently no cure for PRA. Treatment focuses on symptom management and halting disease progression. This may entail environmental modifications to help the dog’s decreased eyesight and regular visits to a veterinary ophthalmologist for monitoring and supportive care.

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