Did you know that a Newfoundland dog’s coat changes with the seasons? Shocking, right? Each year, their thick, water-repellent coat would lighten up in summer and meter extra in winter. This actually makes their body temperature well-regulated, a quality greatly valued in an animal that hails from cold regions like Newfoundland, Canada from which they got their name.
But, with a change in coat, comes a well-known pet owner’s concern – shedding. Yes, just like other dog breeds, Newfoundlands too, are not exempt from the shedding phenomenon. But how much do they exactly shed? Quite a lot; to give it to you straight.
Newfoundlands have a double-layered coat, which means there are two layers of fur that have different functions. The top layer, or the outer coat, is coarse and long. Its job is to repel water and protect the dog from getting cold or wet. The underneath layer, or the undercoat, is softer and serves to keep the dog warm.
The undercoat is greater in volume and tends to get thick during the winters to insulate the dog against cold temperature. This is also when the shedding rate is quite high. As the season changes and winters give way to summers, Newfoundlands lose their undercoat, which leads to a period often referred to as ‘blowing the coat’. If you’re a dog owner, especially a Newfoundland owner, this probably is a mixed blessing. While you love your dog’s coat for its sheer grandeur, when it starts shedding, that’s when the fun stops. Those luscious locks of fur seem more like an extra chore now, don’t they?
Understanding this shedding is essential because it is crucial for their well-being. Most of the shedding is healthy and seasonal, akin to us humans switching from a winter jacket to summer clothes. However, excessive shedding, lack of shedding, or skin issues along shedding could be causes for concern and might need a vet’s attention.
Now that we know shedding is inevitable, how do we manage it? Enter, grooming. Regular brushing can minimize the shedding impact for Newfoundland dogs. A conditioned coat doesn’t shed as much, so a fortnightly bathing schedule with a dog-conditioning shampoo is recommended. Brushing their coat after a bath when their hair is still slightly wet is also advisable. Regular grooming keeps tangling and matting at bay.
Furthermore, a high protein diet for your dog also supports a healthier coat. The combination of a nutritious meal every day and frequent grooming can make your canine’s shedding manageable and keep their fur healthy. Professional groomers can be a godsend for breeds like Newfoundlands that require persistent grooming. They are not only equipped with the right kind of tools for grooming but also have the expertise to handle different breeds, coat types, and their specific needs.
If you are allergic, then it’s best to avoid dog breeds that shed immensely, including Newfoundlands. However, if you’re already a proud owner and have allergies, regular cleaning, vacuuming, use of air purifiers, and building some immunity towards your pet can limit the influence of allergens. Children quickly build immunity, but adults may take a little time.
Having a Newfoundland or planning to have one comes with its share of responsibilities. Shedding is a natural ongoing process that can’t be eliminated, but surely can be appropriately managed without losing your sanity. Just think about it – their sweet temperament, gentle and friendly nature, in combination with their striking good looks, definitely outweighs the shedding factor, right? And remember, there’s always vacuuming. One pet owner quipped, if you can’t stand the fur, stay away from my Newfoundland!
In conclusion, lots of love, grooming, and some vacuuming, is the secret to living happily ever after with your Newfoundland. Despite their large size and high maintenance, they are worth every bit of it for the joy they bring into our lives. After all, a Newfoundland is not just a pet; it’s a family member!
