Newfoundland breed guide

The breed standard says a sweet temperament is the most important single characteristic of the breed. Newfoundlands are devoted, sweet and patient.

AKC says daily human contact is absolutely essential for any Newfoundland and a young one is outgoing, intelligent and curious, never timid, skittish or aggressive.

Newfoundlands live 9 to 10 years. Responsible breeders screen for elbow and hip dysplasia, cardiac disease and cystinuria, which can cause stones in the urinary system.

The heavy coat needs thorough brushing at least once a week with a slicker brush and long-toothed comb to remove dead hair and prevent mats and daily sessions in shedding season, which comes twice a year.

A multipurpose dog at home on land and in water, the Newfoundland is adept at draft work and has natural lifesaving abilities. It needs at least half an hour of moderate exercise daily and belongs indoors with its family.

Canadian fishermen long relied on Newfoundlands as peerless shipboard working dogs that specialized in dramatic water rescues. Born swimmers with partially webbed feet, they are strong enough to save a grown man from drowning.

AKC says what the Saint Bernard is to the Alps, the Newfoundland is to the icy waters of the North Atlantic and Newfoundlands also hauled fishing nets to shore and carted the day's catch to market.