Did you know that the world’s largest dog water rescue operation involved a dog breed known as the Newfoundland? Big, powerful, and with a heart of gold, the Newfoundland dog proudly emerged as a true hero, bravely saving human lives. This spectacular canine carries not only an impressive physical strength, but also a heart as broad as the ocean they love to swim in. But here’s a question even some long-time Newfoundland owners ponder over – do these gentle giants shed a lot?
Before we delve into the fur-filled world of the Newfoundland, let’s explore more about this fascinating breed. Known for their incredible loyalty, gentleness, and the strong bond they forge with their human families, the Newfoundland – or ‘Newfie’ as they are fondly referred to- are truly magnificent creatures. They are head-turning dogs with their size alone, often tipping the scale between 100 pounds for females and 150 pounds for their male counterparts.
The Newfoundland dog breed is a large working dog known not just for its muscular build and strength, but also for its dense, water-resistant double coat. This dual-layer coat is incredibly soft, full, and completely adapted for the harsh Newfoundland weather. It comes in various color combinations of black, brown, grey, and a distinctive landseer coat that’s black and white.
So, back to that shedding question. The short answer is yes, the Newfoundland dog does shed, and they shed quite a lot! It could be said that shedding is as natural to a Newfoundland as swimming or their desire to be close to their humans. However, don’t let this shedding factor stop you from considering this magnificent breed as your next furry family member. Keep reading, and you’ll know how to manage this distinctly Newfie trait!
The Newfoundland is known to “blow” or shed its undercoat essentially twice per year – during the spring and then later in the fall. The quantity of hair they shed can be impressive, to say the least. During this time, you may find clumps of hair around your home, and your vacuum cleaner might seem like your new best friend. Don’t fret at this, as the rest of the year, the shedding is more manageable.
Between these significant shedding seasons, your Newfoundland will still shed but at a much less explosive rate. You might still discover some stray hairs on your clothes and furniture, but the extent is significantly less in comparison to the shedding season.
Now, let’s talk about grooming. Maintaining the coat of a Newfoundland can be a demanding task but it’s not an impossible one. Brushing their coats regularly, about once every week, can significantly reduce the amount of hair you’ll find decorating your furniture. Using a rake comb or a slicker brush should easily do the trick. Regular grooming not only keeps their double coat looking gorgeous but also helps distribute the natural oils in their skin, keeping it healthy. Bathing your Newfoundland should be done on an as-needed basis or around every 2-3 months.
Scheduling professional grooming sessions can also be beneficial, especially during their blow season. Professional groomers have the tools and expertise to handle your Newfie’s shedding and can even provide useful advice tailored to your specific situation.
In terms of diet, giving your Newfoundland high-quality dog food can also promote healthy skin and fur. Omega-3 fatty acids, often found in fish, flaxseed, and canola oil, are particularly useful for promoting a healthy coat. So, look for foods that list these ingredients or consider dietary supplements. Always consult with your vet before making any significant changes to your pet’s diet!
Remember also that regular check-ups with your vet are vital. Although shedding is normal to a certain extent, excessive shedding could be an indication of health issues such as allergies, skin infections, or even specific diseases.
Here’s the bottom line: Yes, the Newfoundland dog does shed, and they shed quite a lot. But this should hardly be the factor that deters you from adopting one of these gentle giants. With proactive grooming, a balanced diet, and regular vet check-ups, managing their shedding is feasible. Add to that the endless amount of love, loyalty, and sweetness you’ll receive from this breed, and you’ll find that a little fur on your clothes is a small price to pay.
A Newfoundland isn’t just a dog; they are a companion, a protector, a confidante. They’ll be there for you, always wagging their tail, ready to present you with a lick or a cuddle, reminding you that yes, the world is filled with fur balls, but it’s also filled with love, loyalty and compassion. So, grab that grooming brush, and embrace the furry adventure because the love of a Newfoundland is quite simply, priceless.
