Dog

The Newfoundland is massive, well muscled and co-ordinated, carrying himself with dignity. His expression is one of gentleness, intelligence and serenity and should never be timid or ill-tempered. Well known for his gentleness toward children, he is a wonderful family companion. He loves the outdoors, especially if he has access to water.

The Newfoundland Dog is a versatile working breed. With his strong life-saving instincts and excellent swimming abilities, he is a natural at water rescue — there are hundreds of documented cases of water rescues performed by Newfs. The Newfoundland is also used as a draft dog as well as a fisherman's helper. Newfs can also be seen working as Therapy Dogs, Assistance Dogs, and in Search and Rescue.

His coat is flat, dense and water-resistant. The outer coat is moderately long and straight but can have a slight wave. The hair on the head, muzzle and ears is short and fine and he has a soft, dense undercoat. The traditional Newfoundland colour is black. He may also have white markings on the chest, toes and tip of the tail.

The Landseer Newfoundland is white with black markings. The preferred pattern of marking for the Landseer is a black head with white blaze extending onto the muzzle, black saddle, and black rump and upper tail. All remaining parts should be white with a minimum of ticking. The symmetry of markings and beauty of pattern characterize the best marked Landseers.

The Newf's large size, dense coat and webbed feet help him withstand a harsh climate and sea.

The male is about 71 cm (28 in) high at the shoulder and weighs from 64 to 68 kg (140 to 150 lb); the female stands 66 cm (26 in) high and weighs from 50 to 54 kg (110 to 120 lb).