On television, you can see them jump from helicopters into the ocean, big magnificent dogs practicing for a day when a drowning sailor's life depends on these fearless swimmers. A few years ago the Newfoundland Josh won viewers' hearts when he woofed in celebration of his Best in Show win at Westminster. If you don't mind dog hair and drool, and you have a heart as big as all of Canada, the Newfoundland dog might be the right choice for you.

History

The Newfoundland as a breed traces its origins back to the island of Newfoundland in Canada. The native dogs there were large, black, sweet-natured, and strong swimmers. They became very popular in England, where they were bred with other large breed dogs to produce a more massive animal; by the late 18th century the breed was established in England and elsewhere. A law passed in Newfoundland in 1780 forbidding the ownership of more than one dog almost wiped out the breed there, but fortunately it survived and over time the Newf developed into the breed we know today.

Because of their strength, swimming ability, guarding instincts, and gentle disposition, Newfs have historically held many jobs. They guarded the family's children, hauled loads of firewood, and helped pull heavy fishing nets to shore. Newfs became so popular in England as nursery guards that Nana, the dog in J.M. Barry's play Peter Pan, was a Newfoundland. Newfs were also common on board ships; if the weather was too rough to land, the dog was sent swimming with a rope for helpers ashore to secure. Many sailors owed their lives to this practice. In addition, Newfs swam to the aid of drowning people, pulling them back to shore.