Did You Know?
Many Newfs are surrendered because owners were not educated about the breed. Find
out more about Newfs and the health issues common in the breed.
FAQ's About Newfoundland's
The Newfoundland is a giant breed dog. Originally bred for carting and hauling, the breed also has strong water rescue instincts and is still used for both purposes. Males average 28 inches in height and weigh 120-150 pounds. Females average 26 inches in height and weigh 100-120 pounds. Newfs are a double-coated breed that shed profusely. They
are also "wet mouthed" particularly when eating and drinking.If you can
tolerate the hair and slobber (and we mean on the ceiling too!), they are truly
gentle giants that make wonderful companions.
How Does NH&R Obtain Dogs?
How Many Do We Get Per Year?
Does NH&R Rescue Newf-mixes?
What Happens When NH&R Obtains A Newf?
Is There A Fee?
Can I Count On Anybody For Help With My New Dog?
Is This Really The Breed For Me?
Summers Are Hot Here, Will This Be A Problem For The Dogs?
Do Newfs Require A Lot Of Exercise?
Can I Afford A Newfoundland?
Our phone numbers are distributed all over Northern California to vet offices, shelters, groomers, and other rescue organizations. We are also listed with the Newfoundland Club of America through literature and their website.When all else fails, there's also word-of-mouth.
Most dogs we get are owner-surrendered. Reasons vary from definitely not the dog's fault (divorce, moving, allergies, etc.) to owners THINK "it's the dog's fault" (untrained, barking, too wet, too hairy, abuse, etc.). Occasionally stray Newfs show up in the shelters but this is rare. Ages range from 4 months to almost 12 years. Sometimes the dogs are completely healthy and sometimes they're in desperate need of veterinary care.
On average, we assist in the re-homing of about 12-15 Newfs per year.
No. We don't physically get involved with placing Newf-mixes but we do refer interested parties to other rescue organizations that do.
When a Newf comes "into the system" we try to get as much background on the dog as possible. If the dog is registered with the AKC, we will try to contact the breeder. This step, however, isn't always possible or in the best interest of the dog. Critical issues we look to evaluate the dog are health matters, compatibility with other dogs, cats and / or children, amount of training and temperament. Dogs with a history of deliberately biting people or showing obvious signs of dominance aggression are not accepted for placement.
Many of the dogs have some kind of emotional baggage which must be dealt with by the adoptive family. We have experienced people within the rescue committee who evaluate potential rescue adoptee's to determine if the dog is adoptable and, if so, what the dog will need from his or her new family. We get the dog to a vet for a checkup, shots (if not current) and spaying / neutering (mandatory). If a health problem is suspected (such as a heart murmur or obviously sore joints), we will order a full evaluation by a specialist. Dogs with severe health problems are dealt with on a case-by-case basis.
The next step we take is to go through the approved applications we have on our waiting list. Based on the information the applicant provides us, we decide if you are a potential match for the dog in question. If so, you will be getting a call and the screening process begins.
Yes. Currently, NH&R charges a non-refundable application of $20.00 and an adoption fee between $600.00 adn $1,000.00 to recover the rescue committee's investment in the dog. This fee is sometimes modified if the dog has long-term health issues requiring expensive rehabilitation. As you can imagine, $600.00 doesn't go very far if we're caring for a really sick dog. We are always accepting donations and holding fundraisers to help keep the rescue program afloat.
In addition to the adoption fee, NH&R also requires all adopting families to sign a contract. In simple terms, the contract asks you to care for the dog, feed him or her and be their best friend.
Absolutely! We want this adoption to work just as much as you do. As with any new addition to your family, there is bound to be an adjustment period where things will seem awkward. Your new dog needs to learn your lifestyle and your language. Help and advice are always just a phone call or personal visit away. No matter how well trained your Newf might have been by his previous owner, we strongly suggest enrolling in an obedience course or two just to make the "transfer of authority" clear for your dog. Adopting a Newf through NH&R includes a one-year membership with NCNC, Members receive a monthly "Newfspaper" informing them of upcoming NCNC events and activities. Naturally, you'll get the opportunity to meet other people who are just as crazy about Newfoundland's as you are!
Newfs are a very people-oriented breed. They were bred for life saving so they have an above-average interest and concern for people. Despite their size, this is NOT an "outside only dog". There is no faster way to break a Newf's heart than to exclude him or her from the family that he's personally sworn to adore. Broken-hearted Newfs develop some really nasty ways to express their frustration such as incessant barking and / or howling, destruction of property, or in some cases, self-mutilation. This is how a lot of Newfs come into rescue in the first place. No, you don't have to quit your job so you can be at home with the dog all the time, but you DO need to make sure that the time you spend with the dog is quality time. A large yard is not the solution. In fact, most Newfs live in regular neighborhoods with normal-sized yards.
You wouldn't believe how many Newfs live in arid climates. Those dogs tend to dump most of their undercoat when the temperature climbs, leaving just the long guard hairs which help to insulate the dog against the heat. For that reason, you should never shave a Newf for the purpose of trying to keep them cool. Naturally, you will need to have plenty of clean water and adequate shade. Also, don't forget that Newfs are natural swimmers which is a great excuse to sneak away to the river or lake for the day!
Not really. However, they do need a moderate amount to stay fit and healthy. As a rule, Newfs are not very self-motivated when it comes to exercise, so that responsibility falls on you. Swimming is, of course, the best exercise but not always possible. A good daily walk or a trip to the dog park for some fetch is adequate. Newfs are prone to getting fat and developing all the related health problems that go with it. Through all that hair, it is very easy to over-estimate how much to feed them. You should always be able to easily feel your dog's ribs.
Newfs are not a cheap breed to own. If you anticipate a struggle just coming up with the adoption fee, don't go any further. Everything you purchase for your Newf will cost a lot more than your neighbor spends for their smaller breed. To transport a Newf, your vehicle should be enclosed and roomy enough for the dog to lay down. Unexpected veterinary bills can potentially drain your bank account dry. As an example, if your Newf ruptures a cruciate ligament, you could be looking at close to $4,000 for surgery. One way to save is to purchase good quality kibble in 30-40 lb bags and shampoos by the gallon.
How Does NH&R Obtain Dogs?
How Many Do We Get Per Year?
Does NH&R Rescue Newf-mixes?
What Happens When NH&R Obtains A Newf?
Is There A Fee?
Can I Count On Anybody For Help With My New Dog?
Is This Really The Breed For Me?
Summers Are Hot Here, Will This Be A Problem For The Dogs?
Do Newfs Require A Lot Of Exercise?
Can I Afford A Newfoundland?
Our phone numbers are distributed all over Northern California to vet offices, shelters, groomers, and other rescue organizations. We are also listed with the Newfoundland Club of America through literature and their website.When all else fails, there's also word-of-mouth.
Most dogs we get are owner-surrendered. Reasons vary from definitely not the dog's fault (divorce, moving, allergies, etc.) to owners THINK "it's the dog's fault" (untrained, barking, too wet, too hairy, abuse, etc.). Occasionally stray Newfs show up in the shelters but this is rare. Ages range from 4 months to almost 12 years. Sometimes the dogs are completely healthy and sometimes they're in desperate need of veterinary care.
On average, we assist in the re-homing of about 12-15 Newfs per year.
No. We don't physically get involved with placing Newf-mixes but we do refer interested parties to other rescue organizations that do.
When a Newf comes "into the system" we try to get as much background on the dog as possible. If the dog is registered with the AKC, we will try to contact the breeder. This step, however, isn't always possible or in the best interest of the dog. Critical issues we look to evaluate the dog are health matters, compatibility with other dogs, cats and / or children, amount of training and temperament. Dogs with a history of deliberately biting people or showing obvious signs of dominance aggression are not accepted for placement.
Many of the dogs have some kind of emotional baggage which must be dealt with by the adoptive family. We have experienced people within the rescue committee who evaluate potential rescue adoptee's to determine if the dog is adoptable and, if so, what the dog will need from his or her new family. We get the dog to a vet for a checkup, shots (if not current) and spaying / neutering (mandatory). If a health problem is suspected (such as a heart murmur or obviously sore joints), we will order a full evaluation by a specialist. Dogs with severe health problems are dealt with on a case-by-case basis.
The next step we take is to go through the approved applications we have on our waiting list. Based on the information the applicant provides us, we decide if you are a potential match for the dog in question. If so, you will be getting a call and the screening process begins.
Yes. Currently, NH&R charges a non-refundable application of $20.00 and an adoption fee between $600.00 adn $1,000.00 to recover the rescue committee's investment in the dog. This fee is sometimes modified if the dog has long-term health issues requiring expensive rehabilitation. As you can imagine, $600.00 doesn't go very far if we're caring for a really sick dog. We are always accepting donations and holding fundraisers to help keep the rescue program afloat.
In addition to the adoption fee, NH&R also requires all adopting families to sign a contract. In simple terms, the contract asks you to care for the dog, feed him or her and be their best friend.
Absolutely! We want this adoption to work just as much as you do. As with any new addition to your family, there is bound to be an adjustment period where things will seem awkward. Your new dog needs to learn your lifestyle and your language. Help and advice are always just a phone call or personal visit away. No matter how well trained your Newf might have been by his previous owner, we strongly suggest enrolling in an obedience course or two just to make the "transfer of authority" clear for your dog. Adopting a Newf through NH&R includes a one-year membership with NCNC, Members receive a monthly "Newfspaper" informing them of upcoming NCNC events and activities. Naturally, you'll get the opportunity to meet other people who are just as crazy about Newfoundland's as you are!
Newfs are a very people-oriented breed. They were bred for life saving so they have an above-average interest and concern for people. Despite their size, this is NOT an "outside only dog". There is no faster way to break a Newf's heart than to exclude him or her from the family that he's personally sworn to adore. Broken-hearted Newfs develop some really nasty ways to express their frustration such as incessant barking and / or howling, destruction of property, or in some cases, self-mutilation. This is how a lot of Newfs come into rescue in the first place. No, you don't have to quit your job so you can be at home with the dog all the time, but you DO need to make sure that the time you spend with the dog is quality time. A large yard is not the solution. In fact, most Newfs live in regular neighborhoods with normal-sized yards.
Newfs Shed
Year-round. You will develop a deep love for efficient vacuum and floor cleaners. Newfs not only cycle out their dead hair all year round and all over your house, but their coat can act like a magnet for dirt and weeds. If you are a neat freak, consider another breed. Consistent thorough grooming (including baths) is mandatory to keep your dog clean and healthy.Yes, Newf's Drool
While we are on the subject (and don't tell me you weren't thinking about it). One of the side effects of that wonderful head and that soft, sweet expression. In fact, there have been terrific "odes to the slime" published over the years (tongue-in-cheek, of course!). Nobody could drink water with that loose-lipped mug and not have it leak out of the sides. No, it's nothing like you saw in the movie "Beethoven" but to deny it's existence would be a flat out lie. If you can't handle wiping slime off your upholstery, windows, walls, children, etc., don't get a Newf. There is no such thing as a "dry-mouth" Newf. Experienced Newf owners keep drool rags in strategic locations around their homes and do not let their dogs beg at the table; at least not when they have company. You wouldn't believe how many Newfs live in arid climates. Those dogs tend to dump most of their undercoat when the temperature climbs, leaving just the long guard hairs which help to insulate the dog against the heat. For that reason, you should never shave a Newf for the purpose of trying to keep them cool. Naturally, you will need to have plenty of clean water and adequate shade. Also, don't forget that Newfs are natural swimmers which is a great excuse to sneak away to the river or lake for the day!
Not really. However, they do need a moderate amount to stay fit and healthy. As a rule, Newfs are not very self-motivated when it comes to exercise, so that responsibility falls on you. Swimming is, of course, the best exercise but not always possible. A good daily walk or a trip to the dog park for some fetch is adequate. Newfs are prone to getting fat and developing all the related health problems that go with it. Through all that hair, it is very easy to over-estimate how much to feed them. You should always be able to easily feel your dog's ribs.
Newfs are not a cheap breed to own. If you anticipate a struggle just coming up with the adoption fee, don't go any further. Everything you purchase for your Newf will cost a lot more than your neighbor spends for their smaller breed. To transport a Newf, your vehicle should be enclosed and roomy enough for the dog to lay down. Unexpected veterinary bills can potentially drain your bank account dry. As an example, if your Newf ruptures a cruciate ligament, you could be looking at close to $4,000 for surgery. One way to save is to purchase good quality kibble in 30-40 lb bags and shampoos by the gallon.