The Newfoundland, a gentle giant among canines, is a striking dog bound to elicit admiring comments wherever he accompanies his owner. The Newfoundland is a large, usually black, breed of dog originally used as a working dog in Newfoundland.

The Newfoundland is a stately, strong, and massive dog with a broad heavy head. Elegant, harmonious, agile, hardy and a heart of gold.

The tranquil nature of the Newfoundland has been found to have such an excellent effect on hyperactive children. The Newf is renowned for his gentleness, protectiveness and love for children. It is very typical that a Newf will stand physically between his family and any stranger. The Newf has sufficient intelligence to recognize a dangerous situation.

The Newfoundland dog originated in Newfoundland and its ancestors were brought to the area by fishermen from Europe. The Newfoundland is a dog which has served man in many capacities. He excells as a companion, protector, babysitter, lifeguard, ship dog, draft animal, pack carrier, natural retriever and obedience dog. He is a devoted companion.

A multipurpose dog, at home on land and in water, the Newfoundland is capable of draft work and possesses natural lifesaving abilities. Similar to the Saint Bernard's propensity for rescuing people in the snow, the Newfoundland is renown for its countless rescues of swimmers. Newfoundlands have webbed feet and a water-resistant coat.

An unnamed Newfoundland is also credited for saving Napoleon Bonaparte in 1815. During his famous escape from exile on the island of Elba, rough seas knocked Napoleon overboard. A fisherman's dog jumped into the sea, and kept Napoleon afloat until he could reach safety.

The normal height is 25-29 inches with a weight of 100-150 pounds.