If you’re considering getting a dog and you have children, one of the most important factors to consider is whether the breed is good with kids.
One breed that often comes up in this discussion is the Newfoundland.
Known for their sweet temperament and gentle nature, these dogs have earned a reputation for being great family pets.
But is a Newfoundland dog really good with children?
The news is, Newfoundland dogs are known for being great with kids.
They are patient, gentle, and unfailingly sweet, making them an ideal breed for families with children.
In fact, Newfoundlands are sometimes referred to as “nanny dogs” because of their ability to watch over and protect children.
However, it’s important to note that while Newfoundlands are generally great with kids, they are also very large dogs, which means they may not be the best choice for families with very young children or infants.
Understanding the Newfoundland Breed
If you’re considering adding a dog to your family, it’s important to choose a breed that is friendly and gentle with children.
One breed that often comes to mind is the Newfoundland, a large dog known for its sweet disposition and gentle nature.
The Newfoundland breed has a long history, dating back to the 18th century in Canada.
These dogs were originally bred to work alongside fishermen, helping to pull in nets and retrieve fish that fell overboard.
Today, they are still used for water rescue and are often employed as therapy dogs.
Newfoundlands come in a variety of colors, including black, brown, and grey.
They are large dogs, with males typically weighing between 130-150 pounds and females weighing between 100-120 pounds.
Despite their size, they are often referred to as “gentle giants” due to their friendly and calm nature.
While they may look intimidating, Newfoundlands are actually very friendly and affectionate.
They are known for being great with children and are often referred to as “nanny dogs” due to their patient and gentle demeanor.
They are also very loyal and protective of their families, making them great watchdogs.
In addition to being great family pets, Newfoundlands are also powerful working dogs.
They are strong swimmers and excel at water rescue, thanks to their webbed feet and thick, water-resistant coat.
They are also used in search and rescue operations and as therapy dogs in hospitals and nursing homes.
The American Kennel Club describes the Newfoundland breed as having a “sweetness of temperament” and notes that they are “generally good with other pets.”
However, as with any breed, it’s important to socialize your Newfoundland from a young age to ensure they are comfortable around other animals and people.
Overall, if you’re looking for a friendly and gentle giant to add to your family, the Newfoundland may be the perfect breed for you.
Size and Strength of Newfoundlands
Newfoundlands are one of the largest breeds of dogs, and they are known for their massive size and strength.
They typically stand between 25 and 29 inches (63-74 cm) at the shoulder and weigh between 100 and 150 pounds (45-68 kg).
Their robust build, broad chest, and strong, well-muscled bodies give them an imposing presence.
As a large breed, Newfoundlands require a lot of space to move around and play.
They are not well-suited for apartment living, and they need a large yard or open space to run and exercise.
They also need plenty of room inside the house to stretch out and relax.
Newfoundlands have heavy bones, which gives them their strength and durability.
This also means that they can be quite heavy, which can be a challenge for some owners.
You will need to be able to lift and move your Newfoundland, especially if they are injured or need to be transported.
Despite their size and strength, Newfoundlands are gentle and friendly dogs.
They have a calm and patient demeanor, which makes them well-suited for families with children.
They are known for their protective instincts and will watch over children and keep them safe.
Overall, Newfoundlands are a great choice for families with children, as long as you have the space and strength to handle their size and weight.
With their friendly and gentle nature, they make great companions and are sure to bring joy to your home.
Newfoundland’s Temperament
Newfoundlands are known for their gentle and sweet temperament, making them a great family pet and excellent with children.
They are often referred to as “gentle giants” due to their large size and calm demeanor.
Their social nature means they enjoy being around people and other pets, and they thrive on companionship.
They are patient and protective, making them ideal for families with young children.
In fact, they have earned the nickname “nanny dog” due to their patience and kindness with kids.
Despite their intimidating size, Newfoundlands are sensitive and peaceful dogs. They are known for their loyalty and will protect their family when needed.
However, they are not aggressive and will only act to defend their loved ones if they feel threatened.
Newfoundlands can be stubborn at times, but they respond well to positive reinforcement training methods.
They are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train.
Newfoundlands as Family Dogs
If you are looking for a friendly and affectionate family dog, then a Newfoundland might be a great choice for you.
They are known for being excellent companions and are often referred to as “nanny dogs” because of their gentle and patient nature with children.
Newfoundlands are very sociable and love to be around people, especially children.
They have a calm and patient temperament, which makes them great with kids of all ages.
They are also very protective of their family, so you can rest assured that your children are safe with them around.
These dogs are big, but they are also very gentle and loving. They are not aggressive and do not have a mean bone in their body.
They are very tolerant of children and will often let them climb all over them without getting upset.
Newfoundlands are also great family pets because they are very loyal and affectionate. They will follow you around the house and always want to be near you.
They are also very intelligent and easy to train, which makes them a great addition to any family.
Training and Socialization
When it comes to training and socialization, Newfoundland dogs are generally friendly and easy to train.
However, as with any dog breed, it’s important to start training and socialization early on to ensure that your Newfoundland is well-behaved and well-adjusted.
Training your Newfoundland involves teaching them basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel, as well as more advanced commands like fetch and roll over.
Positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewarding your dog with treats and praise for good behavior, are often the most effective way to train your Newfoundland.
In addition to obedience training, socialization is also crucial for your Newfoundland’s development.
Early socialization with people and other dogs can help your Newfoundland learn to be comfortable and friendly in different situations.
Exposing your Newfoundland to a variety of sights, sounds, and experiences can also help prevent behavioral issues such as fear and aggression.
To ensure that your Newfoundland receives the attention and training they need, it’s important to set aside time each day for training and socialization.
Consistency and patience are key when it comes to training your Newfoundland, and it’s important to remain calm and positive throughout the process.
Overall, with proper training and socialization, your Newfoundland can be a friendly and well-behaved companion for your entire family, including children.
Exercise and Activity Level
Newfoundland dogs are known for their gentle and patient nature, making them great companions for children.
However, it is important to ensure that they get enough exercise and activity to keep them healthy and happy.
As a general guideline, Newfoundland dogs should have at least 30 to 60 minutes of exercise each day.
This can include a combination of walking, running, and playing, and should be tailored to your dog’s age, size, and activity level.
Younger, more active dogs may require more exercise, while older dogs may need less.
Daily walks are a great way to provide exercise and mental stimulation for your Newfoundland dog.
These walks should be at a moderate pace and include opportunities for your dog to explore and sniff their surroundings.
Additionally, swimming is a great low-impact exercise that many Newfoundland dogs enjoy.
In addition to daily walks and swimming, there are also many dog sports that can provide great exercise and mental stimulation for your Newfoundland dog.
These can include activities such as agility, obedience, and tracking.
It is important to note that high-impact or over-strenuous exercise can lead to joint pain in Newfoundland dogs.
Therefore, it is important to tailor exercise routines to your dog’s individual needs and abilities.
Health Concerns of Newfoundlands
Newfoundlands are generally healthy dogs. However, like all breeds, they are prone to certain health problems that you should be aware of if you are considering getting one as a family pet.
One of the most common health issues that Newfoundlands face is hip dysplasia. This is a genetic condition that affects the hip joint and can cause pain and discomfort.
Elbow dysplasia is another genetic condition that can affect Newfoundlands, causing lameness and arthritis in the elbow joint.
Cataracts are also common in Newfoundlands. This is a condition where the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, causing vision problems.
While cataracts can be treated with surgery, it is important to catch them early to prevent further damage to your dog’s eyesight.
Newfoundlands are also prone to weight gain, which can lead to other health problems such as diabetes and heart disease.
It is important to monitor your dog’s diet and exercise to prevent obesity.
Unfortunately, cancer is also a concern for Newfoundlands. The breed is prone to certain types of cancer, such as mast cell tumors and lymphoma.
Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can help catch these types of cancer early, increasing the chances of successful treatment.
Overall, Newfoundlands are a healthy breed, but it is important to be aware of the potential health issues that they may face.
Regular check-ups with your veterinarian and a healthy diet and exercise routine can help keep your Newfoundland happy and healthy for years to come.
Grooming Needs
Newfoundland dogs have a thick, waterproof coat that requires regular grooming to keep it clean and healthy.
Their coat sheds heavily twice a year, and during that time, brushing should be done more frequently to remove loose hair and prevent matting.
To keep their coat in good condition, it is recommended to brush them at least once a week.
Use a slicker brush to remove tangles and mats, and a comb to remove any remaining loose hair.
Pay special attention to their undercoat, which can easily become matted if not brushed regularly.
Newfoundlands are known for their drooling, so be prepared to wipe their mouth and chin frequently to prevent skin irritation.
Additionally, they may need their ears cleaned regularly to prevent infections.
Regular grooming can also help keep your home clean by reducing the amount of hair that your Newfoundland sheds.
Make sure to groom them outside or in an area that is easy to clean, as their thick coat can create a lot of mess.
Overall, grooming a Newfoundland requires some effort, but it is essential to keep them healthy and comfortable.
With regular brushing and cleaning, you can help your Newfoundland look and feel their best.
Considerations for Potential Newfoundland Owners
If you’re considering getting a Newfoundland dog, there are a few things to keep in mind.
These gentle giants can make wonderful family pets, but they aren’t right for everyone.
Here are some things to consider before bringing a Newfoundland into your home:
Size and Strength
Newfoundlands are big dogs, weighing anywhere from 100 to 150 pounds.
They are also very strong, which means they can easily knock over small children or even adults.
If you have young children or elderly family members, you’ll need to be extra cautious when your Newfoundland is around.
Messiness
Newfoundlands are known for their love of water, and they have a tendency to drool and slobber. They also shed quite a bit, especially during the spring and fall.
If you’re a neat freak, a Newfoundland might not be the best choice for you.
Diet
Because of their size, Newfoundlands require a lot of food. You’ll need to be prepared to feed your dog a high-quality diet that is appropriate for their age and activity level.
You should also be prepared to clean up after your dog, as they can be messy eaters.
Separation Anxiety
Newfoundlands are very social dogs and don’t like to be left alone for long periods of time.
If you work long hours or travel frequently, a Newfoundland might not be the best choice for you.
Watchful
Newfoundlands are known for their watchful nature and are often used as guard dogs.
While they are generally friendly with strangers, they will bark to alert their owners if they sense danger.
Stubbornness
Newfoundlands can be stubborn at times, which can make them difficult to train.
You’ll need to be patient and consistent when training your dog, and you may need to seek the help of a professional trainer if you’re having trouble.
Country
Newfoundlands are adaptable to both city and country living, but they do require a lot of space to move around.
If you live in an apartment or a small house with no yard, a Newfoundland might not be the best choice for you.
Heat
Newfoundlands have a thick coat that is designed to keep them warm in cold weather.
They can overheat easily in hot weather, so you’ll need to be careful not to over-exercise your dog on hot days.
Cost
Newfoundlands can be expensive to purchase, and they also require a lot of food and veterinary care.
You should be prepared to spend a significant amount of money on your dog over their lifetime.
Drinking
Newfoundlands love to drink water, and they can be messy drinkers.
You’ll need to provide your dog with plenty of fresh water, and you may want to invest in a water bowl that is designed to minimize spills.
Newfoundlands as Working and Rescue Dogs
Newfoundlands are known for their strength, calm temperament, and loyalty, making them great working dogs.
Originally bred to help fishermen, they have webbed feet that make them excellent swimmers and water rescuers.
They are also strong enough to pull carts and sleds, and their thick coats help protect them from cold weather.
In addition to their work on land and in water, Newfoundlands can also be trained to be great therapy dogs and assistance dogs in search and rescue.
They have a strong drive to work alongside their owners and are eager to please.
Newfoundlands are not typically used as guard dogs, as their friendly nature makes them more likely to greet strangers than to bark at them.
However, they can be watchful and protective of their family, especially children.
Overall, Newfoundlands make great working and rescue dogs due to their strength, calm temperament, and loyalty.
They are not typically used as guard dogs, but can be watchful and protective of their family.
With their webbed feet and love for water, they excel in water rescue and are eager to please their owners in any task they are given.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Newfoundlands good family dogs?
Yes, Newfoundlands are generally considered good family dogs. They are known for their gentle and patient nature, which makes them great with children.
Is a Newfoundland a good family dog?
Yes, a Newfoundland is a good family dog. They are affectionate, loyal, and protective, which makes them great companions for families.
Are Newfoundlands kid friendly?
Yes, Newfoundlands are kid-friendly dogs. They have a calm and patient demeanor, which makes them great around children.
However, as with any dog, it is important to supervise interactions between kids and dogs to ensure safety.
What are the pros and cons of owning a Newfoundland?
Pros:
- Newfoundlands are gentle and patient dogs, which makes them great with children.
- They are loyal and protective, which makes them great companions for families.
- They are intelligent and easy to train.
- They have a thick double coat that makes them well-suited for cold weather.
Cons:
- Newfoundlands are large dogs that require a lot of space and exercise.
- They shed a lot, which can be a problem for people with allergies or who are sensitive to dog hair.
- They can drool, which can be messy.
- They can be stubborn at times, which can make training challenging.
Do Newfoundlands shed?
Yes, Newfoundlands do shed. They have a thick double coat that sheds seasonally, which means they will require regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and shiny.
Are Newfoundland dogs cuddly?
Yes, Newfoundland dogs are known for being cuddly and affectionate. They love to be close to their owners and enjoy snuggling up on the couch or in bed.