A Gentle Giant – The Newfoundland Dog
Black Newfoundland dog.
Born of salt and snow – the faithful heart of Newfoundland
Perhaps no other dog has a better reputation than the Newfoundland dog. Almost always portrayed as strong, calm and very protective, it has become a symbol of Newfoundland and Labrador. While this wonderful breed is a symbol of the island, they are not indigenous. They are probably a cross between the French sheep-dogs of the Pyrenees and black, curly-coated retrievers from England. Over many decades of breeding this cross resulted in the modern day Newfoundland dog.
The Newfoundland is a large breed of working dog. Newfoundlands (Newfies) were originally bred as working dogs for fishermen in Newfoundland. They excel at water rescue and life saving in general because of their muscular build, thick double coat, webbed paws, and swimming abilities. Before Newfoundland joined Canada in 1949, only black and white Landseer dogs were considered to be proper members of the breed.
Very trusting, they are a very sweet and gentle dog, which makes them an ideal pet for children. In fact, they seem to have a natural affinity for children. They are often used as watchdogs and companions.
Newfies have been featured in many movies and have been the inspiration for many artists who have portrayed the dogs in paint, stone, bronze and porcelain. One very famous Newfoundland accompanied Lewis and Clarke on their three-year journey across the United States. Many versions of the children’s story Peter Pan have cast a Newfoundland as the children’s nanny.
Newfoundland Dogs at a Glance
Breed Origin:
• Newfoundland & Labrador
• Developed to assist fishermen with hauling nets, pulling carts, and performing water rescues
Physical Traits:
• Thick, water-resistant double coat
• Large, powerful build
• Webbed feet for strong swimming
• Coat colours: black, brown, grey, and black-and-white (Landseer)
Temperament:
• Calm and patient
• Exceptionally gentle with children
• Intelligent and loyal
• Natural lifesaving instinct
Famous Newfoundlands:
• Seaman – accompanied Lewis and Clark on their expedition
• Nana – the nanny dog in Peter Pan (some stage and film versions)
• Boatswain – Lord Byron’s beloved pet, honoured with a tomb larger than Byron’s own
Fun Fact:
In Newfoundland, they were so trusted that children were sometimes left in their care while parents worked nearby.
Stamps
The Newfoundland dog has been featured many times on stamps.
One of the earliest stamps was issued in 1896.
This stamp was issued by the government of Newfoundland in about 1932.
George VI and a Newfoundland dog. Issued in 1937 to mark the coronation of the King.
In 1988, the Canadian government issued a stamp featuring the Newfoundland dog.