Basic information
Country of origin: Canada
Period of origination: 18th century
Original use: assistant of fishermen
Present use: companion, rescuer
Length of life: 9 - 11 years
Other name: Newfoundland
Weight: 50 - 68 kg
Height: 66 - 71 cm
This breed comes from the island of Newfoundland and it may be descended from the local dogs and from a big black bear dog which was brought here after the year 1100 by the Vikings. After the arrival of the European fishermen, lots of breeds affected forming and renewal of a breed but the most important qualities remained preserved. When in 1610 the island colonization started, the Newfoundland dog had already been known for its own morphology and inborn qualities. Those qualities enabled it on land to survive the cruellest climatic conditions at pulling heavy loads and to resist to sea pitfalls as water and rescue dog.
Entire appearance: it is massive with strong and muscular body. Its movements are well coordinated.
Important dimensions: length of a body from the cock up to tail is the same as the distance from the cock to the ground. The body is compact. The body of the female can be a bit longer and less massive than the body of the male. The distance from the cock up to lower edge of the chest is bigger than the one from the edge of the chest to the ground.
Temperament and behaviour: its appearance shoots good heart and mildness. Grand, joyful and venturesome, it is known for its kindliness and peace.
