Who this breed is NOT for
Hot climates, tidy households (drool + fur), tight budgets, or anyone who can't bear losing a dog young. Love comes with a giant-breed price here.
Bred to do
A water-rescue and working dog from Newfoundland — bred to haul nets, pull carts, and rescue people from the water. A powerful, sweet-natured swimmer.
Exercise needs
Moderate — daily walks and, ideally, swimming, which they adore and which is gentle on their joints. Careful with heat; they overheat easily.
Temperament
Gentle, patient, sweet, and famously good-natured — the classic 'nanny dog.' Calm indoors, devoted, and eager to please.
Trainability
Good — sensitive and willing, they respond beautifully to gentle, positive training. Size makes early manners essential.
With kids & pets
Exceptional — one of the most trustworthy, patient family breeds with children and other animals. Supervise only because of sheer size.
Living situation
Better with space, but calm enough for a large, cool home. Heat and small spaces are the enemies; they need room and cool air.
Grooming & shedding
Heavy double coat, heavy shedding, and lots of drool. Regular brushing is a real commitment; expect fur and slobber.
Health & costs
Giant-breed realities: short lifespan, hip and elbow dysplasia, heart disease (subaortic stenosis), bloat, and cystinuria. Vet care, food, and meds all cost more. Insurance recommended.
Best fit
Families who want a gentle giant, have cool space and a real grooming/drool tolerance, and can accept giant-breed costs and a short life.
Free guide
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A note from Kerri
Newfies are as sweet as dogs come — genuinely angelic with kids. But go in knowing three things: the drool, the shedding, and the heartbreakingly short life. If you can give them cool space and a soft heart for the goodbye, few dogs love you more completely.
— Kerri, founder of Floyd's Love
Gear Kerri recommends
A few things that make this easier. As an Amazon Associate, Floyd's Love earns from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.
Portable Leak-Proof Dog Water Bottle with Collapsible Bowl, 10 oz
A leak-proof, one-handed water dispenser, rated highly in [Best Dog Water Bottles of 2026](https://www.treelinereview.com/gearreviews/best-dog-water-bottles), makes it easy to keep your dog hydrated during practice drives and long journeys.
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Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
An effective tool for daily brushing to prevent mats and distribute healthy oils across your dog's coat.
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Oxyfresh Premium Pet Dental Care Solution
A simple supplement to brushing that helps fight bacteria and bad breath, which the content notes is a key sign of dental problems.
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UPSKY Dog Water Bowl No-Spill Slow Water Feeder
Encourages the "small frequent sips" recommended in the content by preventing dogs from taking big gulps that can trigger vomiting.
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WeatherBeeta Reflective Dog Parka
This insulated, waterproof coat provides essential warmth for short-coated or small dogs during cold winter walks.
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Dental Finger Wipes for Dogs and Cats, Fresh Breath, 50 ct
Textured finger wipes designed to gently clean teeth and gums as an alternative for dogs that won't yet tolerate a standard toothbrush.
Shop thisFloyd's Love is educational. Our lessons, breed guides, and personalized assessments are for general information and preparation only — they are not a substitute for professional veterinary care or advice from a qualified veterinarian or animal behaviorist. Always consult your vet for medical concerns and a qualified professional for behavior issues.