Royvon Dog Training Schools, the UK's leading Dog Training specialists for residential dog obedience training.

Understanding and Training a Newfoundland

A sweet natured breed that can be mildly stubborn, yet very responsive to training. Female Newfoundlands are known to be especially willing to please.

Exercise patience while training and praise with much encouragement. Avoid any harsh punishment or excessive jerking on the lead, as this just makes the dog shy - also remember that this is a big dog that takes time to move: Be patient.

This is a hard working breed that is happy to have a job. Combine exercise, training and bonding into your activities and offer powerful rewards such as hauling, pulling and games (or just rewards) that involve swimming or anything with water.

Although the Newfoundland thrives in the outdoors, this is not a backyard breed, as they are sociable and devoted to their owners. As a giant breed, it is important to both socialise and assume strong leadership in order to include & integrate this dog in a fulfilling life that includes a variety of outdoor exposure.

Breed Profile

Breed Name: Newfoundland

Domestic Dog Group:

Brief Description:

General Size: 110 - 150 lbs (50 - 68 kg); 66 - 71 cm
General Temperament: Responsive, Docile & Devoted
General Description: A hard-working calm & gentle giant. Devoted and sensibly social - an ideal companion for those that have the appropriate space & environments to share.

Breed’s Key Traits

High Med-High Medium Med-Low Low

Requires Experience x

Good Family Dog x

Exercise Required x

Activity Indoors x

Ease of Training x

Sociability with Strangers x

Grooming Requirements x

Brief History

Thought to be a descendent from the mastiff, the Newfoundland's origins are based in the northeastern regions of Canada, where the dog hauled fisherman's nets, pulled carts and carried packs.