The Newfoundland is the supreme family dog … they’re completely devoted to keeping your kids safe! These enormous dogs have finely-honed rescue instincts, and are incredibly sweet and gentle. But please think before you buy, a Newfoundland puppy can be handful … and a very large one at that.

Newfies are massive dogs, weighing around 100 to 150 pounds and standing 26 to 28 inches tall. The Newfoundland’s trademark is its waterproof double coat, which can be black, brown, gray, or white. A Newfie’s eyes can be anywhere from deep chocolate to light brown.

The American Kennel Club naturally classifies these guys as Working dogs. Their thick, waterproof double coat and large size make them ideal for extreme sea rescues.

Their sheer size makes them a bad apartment/small room dog. But consider also that they’re not high strung and don’t need too much exercise, so a fenced-in yard will be sufficient. Of course, they won’t reject a leisurely evening stroll with their owners.

Due to their enormous size, these dogs need training so they won’t jump up on people. Strangely enough, though, they have inherent understanding of how delicate kids and animals are, and try hard to avoid hurting them. Newfoundlands will sit, as if on a throne, and take in the world around them. Right up until someone wants to play! Then they give up all dignity and happily romp around.

A Newfie’s exuberance and loyalty make it both a great dog and a handful to raise. These guys should attend puppy obedience class to learn their limits as well as basic commands, and to make some new puppy friends.

A dog weighing more than 100 pounds will eat a lot, so be ready for the hike in grocery bills. They’ll also need the right vitamins/nutrients to grow strong and healthy, so talk to your vet about getting the right food.

Hip dysplasia and a lesser-known problem, SAS or subvalvular aortic stenosis, are common to the breed, so be sure your breeder has checked for them before taking one of these giant furballs home. Between the Newfie’s membership in the endearing but short-lived class of “gentle giants,” and the problems that crop up with less-than-exacting breeders, the Newfoundland on average lives for only about nine years.

Yes, Newfies have long hair, but grooming them isn’t too time-consuming. The top coat doesn’t mat easily, so as long as you take time to brush as least once a week, your dog’s coat will always look great. Another grooming item you’ll need to keep on top of is his nails. Check them at least once a month to be sure they don’t need trimming.

If you just couldn’t ever own a romping pet dog the size of small pony, don’t buy a Newfoundland. On the other hand, if you’re okay with their size, you’ll have a loyal and fun-filled friend you’ll never forget.