The Newfoundland is named after the island of that name in the north-east Canada. Its original duty was to act as a fisherman's draught dog, but it later became famous for its seagoing rescue feats.  This large, heavily built breed has been described as a "huge, cuddly bear of a dog" and is one of the gentlest of all breeds, reknown for its love of children and its endless patience when enduring their most annoying habits. A great swimmer and a natural lifeguard. If you want a companion dog or a protection dog, the Newfoundland is the answer. He must have a great deal of exercise, at least two hours a day, and he is definitely not an apartment dog. It has a thick coat that is usually solid black, but can also appear in a dark, rich brown, and black-and-white (Landseer pattern).
Colors of the Newfoundland
Photo courtesy of sweetbay.com
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