“Newfoundland is a dog breed known for their gentle giant nature. It’s a fascinating world where gentleness and power coexist effortlessly, making the Newfoundland breed a striking character. On many occasions, you may have heard statements that border on labeling these beautiful creatures as aggressive. Could this possibly be true? It’s an intriguing mystery that deserves an unwavering commitment to unravel, and luckily, we are here to do just that!
First, let’s dive into some historical facts. The Newfoundland dog breed, fondly known as “Newfies,” originated from Newfoundland Island in Canada, where they primarily served as working dogs for fishermen. Their impeccable swimming prowess, immense strength, and patient temperament made them excellent helpers in hauling nets and rescuing overboard fishermen. This background often gives people the impression that they might be aggressive, but quite the contrary is true.
As we explore the character traits of these gentle giants, you’ll realize the remarkable contradiction to the label of aggression often thrust upon them. Newfies possess the heart of a saint. They are patient, gentle, friendly, and possess an innate fondness for children. It breeds that stoop low to allow a toddler ride on their back, serving as a warm, fuzzy, moving carpet for the little ones. Even with their massive size, they are surprisingly careful not to knock children over.
To put the misguided notion of aggression into perspective, the American Temperament Test Society (ATTS), an organization involved in testing canine temperaments, placed Newfoundland in the 91.7% success rate bracket. It means that out of all the Newfies tested, 91.7% showed a stable and pleasant temperament, much higher than many other breeds. So, where does the aggression notion come from? The fact is, no dog breed is inherently aggressive. Often, the demeanor of a dog is a reflection of its upbringing, training, socialization, and, sometimes, inherited genes.
So, could a Newfoundland become aggressive? The unexpected answer is, yes, but it’s not a breed characteristic; it’s an exception. Keep in mind here, an aggressive dog isn’t made overnight. There are usually telltale signs leading up to the aggression. A dog who is in pain, fearful, not well socialized, poorly trained, or has had past traumatic experiences may exhibit aggressive behaviors.
If a Newfie is showing signs of aggression, don’t panic. The key to handling such a situation is understanding the root cause of the aggression and addressing it. Be attentive to any sudden changes in behavior, appetite, or activity levels. Also, consult with a veterinarian or a canine behavior specialist. Remember – the Newfie is naturally friendly and gentle, and any aggressive behavior may signal a deeper issue that needs professional intervention.
Here’s some value add advice for all Newfoundland owners or those thinking of having one in their lives. Unsurprisingly, training and socialization form the backbone of any dog’s temperament. Begin by socializing your Newfie right from puppyhood. Let him interact with various people, animals, and environments. Introduce him to different kinds of stimuli, sounds, and situations. The more your Newfie nears, the less he will fear, and fear is often a premise for aggression.
Training should comprise patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Shun any form of harsh punitive measures, as they only instigate fear and defiance in most dogs. Instead, bring out those treats, praises, pats, and hugs whenever they do something right.
A Newfoundland’s temperament is a product of both nature and nurture. By nature, they are gentle, friendly, and loving dogs. Nurture, on the other hand, rests in your hands. A well-socialized and adequately trained Newfie will grow into a well-behaved and obedient dog, far from any aggressive traits.
In conclusion, the Newfoundland is anything but aggressive. They are liked for their endearing qualities that make them lovely pets. If you want a breed that typifies a gentle giant, then without a doubt, the Newfoundland is the dog for you, a huge, lovable, trustworthy bundle of joy that will complement your family beautifully. Always remember, a little patience and a lot of love go a long way in shaping your Newfoundland’s temperament. So, bid adieu to the age old myth of Newfoundland aggression and welcome the reality – a friendly, good-natured, and gentle breed.”
