Overview
Few dogs have a kinder reputation than the Newfoundland, and most of them earn it. Developed by fishermen on the island it is named after, it hauled lines and carts and rescued people from cold water. The webbed feet, oily double coat and enormous lung capacity are all still there.
On land it is placid to the point of laziness, affectionate with almost everyone and famously patient with children. The cost is weight, drool and coat. A wet Newfoundland can carry a surprising amount of water into a client's hallway.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour a day in one or two easy walks keeps a healthy adult content. They are not athletes on land and should not be hurried, especially in warm weather, when the thick coat makes even a mild afternoon uncomfortable. Swimming is the exception; in water they will go for as long as you let them.
Growing dogs need particular care because the frame they are building is enormous. Keep puppy walks short and on soft ground, and follow the owner's rules on stairs, jumping and distance.
On the walk
- Water: If there is a lake, pond or river, the dog is going in. Check that the owner permits it, that the exit is safe, and that you have a towel big enough for the job.
- Pace: Slow and steady. A Newfoundland is poorly matched with a brisk group and better with another large, easygoing dog or on its own.
- Pulling: Rarely deliberate, but the weight behind the lead is huge. Walk on a strong harness and keep the lead short near roads.
- Drool and coat: Both are constant. Keep a cloth for the chin and brush out burrs and mud before returning the dog, especially behind the ears and on the chest.
Tips for professional walkers
- Walk early or late from late spring and skip hot afternoons entirely.
- Keep two towels in the van: one for the dog, one for your seats.
- Look for rescue instinct: some Newfoundlands try to pull swimmers out of the water, which can frighten the swimmer.
- Check between the toes after muddy walks; the webbing traps grit and seeds.
What to ask the owner
- Is swimming allowed, where, and how do they want the dog dried afterwards?
- Any hip, elbow, cruciate or heart history, and does the vet set any exercise limits?
- How does the dog cope with heat, and at what point should the walk be cancelled?