Owning a Newf is a big task and is not for eveyone. They require a lot of love and attention and a TON OF GROOMING!!Drake is an amazing dog and a great Newf, he has learned tricks and obedience fairly easily, is quiet and well behaved, is fun and loving, but he is a big responsibility for us. Since my wife and I both work, he is home alone all day, but when we get home, he has all of our attention. He gets very depressed when he isn't with us, as most Newfs do, so we make sure he is never left alone for too long. Here are some things to think about if you're considering a Newf:
- they require a lot of brushing and cleaning up as their hair is long and thick. They are prone to hotspots so if they are not washed or brushed regularly, you can count on them getting one. They also tend to stink if you let them go too long without brushing or washing. We brush Drake every day, wash him regularly and clip his hair short every 3 months to combat this and the shedding.
- many Newfs have health issues. Not that we are anything special, but our vet constantly remarks on how lucky we are that Drake is so healthy. Many Newfs that he sees are a mess. This means that you really have to research your breeder and see what kind of dogs they breed and what certifications or licenses they have. A quality Newf pup can cost anywhere from $1200 to $2000 US, so make sure you are getting one whose hips and heart have been cleared. A cheap Newf pup can become an expensive and unhealthy adult Newf. Don't buy a Newf from the Newspaper, they invariably are backyard breeders. Newf rescue groups are good to look into as well, you can get a good dog for very little money sometimes.
- Newfs need attention and you already have two dogs so this might be an issue for you. They aren't the type of dog that entertains themselves. Unless you have lots of free time for all 3 dogs, you may be getting into a sad situation for your Newf. Newfs have been known to self mutilate themselves due to loneliness or lack of attention.
- NEWFS DROOL & SHED. There's no getting around it, if you are a neat freak, this is definitely not the dog for you. They like to shake their heads, especially inside, and drool goes everywhere. And the hair, where do I begin, they shed a lot! And to get them groomed, it can cost anywhere from $60 to $100 US, unless you buy some clippers and learn how to do it yourself. Drake has so much hair, I made a hat out of it. In case you didn't see I posted pictures at this link (yes, I'm weird):
http://www.bigpawsonly.com/index.php/topic,11695.msg146659.html#msg146659- many Newfs require a special diet or high end kibble because they tend to have irritable stomachs. This will require you to spend a little more money than you are used to for dog food.
I don't mean to dwell on what seems to be the negative or downside aspects of Newf ownership, I just want you to understand what you would be getting yourself into. These dogs are so cute and cuddly and everyone wants one, but they aren't for everybody. I hope you really do your homework before you get a Newf, there are many other things, aside from what I listed, to consider before you get one. Please only get one if you really can take care of them and handle their issues, they are very special dogs.Â