Newfoundland

The Newfoundland retriever1 is a breed of utility dog, originating from the island of Newfoundland, Canada, large in size and generally presenting thick black fur, recognized for its beauty. He is valued for his strength, loyalty, and aquatic skills. It is also nicknamed NewFoundland, Newfie, Saint-Bernard des mers2. Its webbed paws, its build and its docility make the Newfoundland the ideal animal for rescue, especially at sea3. Health Silhouette diseases of the bone. This breed is particularly susceptible, due to its build, to hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia), diseases of hereditary origin but where environmental factors such as food, forced exercise, jumps, climbs are involved. stairs, etc. The growth of the Newfoundland puppy must therefore be slow, he needs a quality diet, neither too fatty nor too rich in protein. Cystinuria, hereditary disease causing stones in the bladder. Congenital malformations (stenoses, shunts). Excess drooling, although more of a problem for the owner than the dog. Today, serious breeders test breeding stock for many of these diseases.

“The Newfoundland is descended from the aboriginal dogs of the island of Newfoundland and large bear hunting dogs introduced by the Vikings in the year 1001 AD with the arrival of European fishermen, the breed was improved through crossbreeding with other breeds, but it apparently retained its original characteristics. At the beginning of colonization in 1610, the behavioral attitudes as well as the main physical traits of the Newfoundland were already firmly established. At the end of the 18th century, the Newfoundland was used to pull the trunks of felled trees. The Newfoundland was counted with the Newfoundland Fishing Boat team. They used the dog to bring the fishing nets on board, to bring back objects, and in addition to save those who had fallen into the sea. “But for the rescue at sea, several conditions are required. The dog must be strong enough to bring back a human being. Its coat is double: the insulating undercoat allows it to fight against cooling in icy water and the surface coat resists water. The Newfoundland can thus swim for hours (it is said…) while remaining dry and warm. In addition, the dog must love water, or at least he must be able to jump into the water without fear and he must swim willingly. With his webbed feet, he supports himself in the water and moves more easily (his musculature must be sufficiently developed to give impetus and power to movement in the water). Finally, the Newfoundland must be very resistant to muscular exhaustion. he is above all one of the most cuddly, joyful and gentle breeds!