History of the Newfoundland

The Newfoundland dog is from Newfoundland, which is a Province of Canada. History indicates, the breed has been mentioned by name since 1731. Leif Erickson had a Newf named, Oolum, on board with him, as he sailed the seas. The history of the breed is filled with stories of heroism. Would the Battle of Waterloo have happened, if a Newf had not saved drowning Napoleon, who fell over board, and couldn't swim? A Newf named Scannon, accompanied Lewis and Clark on their expedition. Accounts claim that among the survivors of the Titanic was a Newfoundland Dog.

The Indians used these dogs to drag their fishing nets and to haul freight in carts. They were valued for their life saving instincts. They have a very strong swimming ability. Unlike most dogs who "doggy paddle", they stroke.  Newfs are known for their instinctive water rescue. This gentle mouthed dog, can grasp a drowning person's arm, and bring him in, without even so much as a bruise.

Where the gentle nature of the Newf came from is unknown. But, that is the quality they are best known for. Their love of children is what they are famous for. The Newfoundland is an ideal family pet. They are not watchdogs.  But, they are very large, and have a deep throated bark.  What intruder is going to approach the deep bark of a big, black bear?

Izzy Bee, on Beach Patrol.

Ahh, how refreshing!

Chuck, 5 months old, and Nathanael, now 16.