Newfoundland dogs are loving, a bit quirky, and very active canines. These gentle giants require regular grooming to maintain their thick, double coat of fur, which can easily become matted if left unattended. But fear not. With the right techniques and tools, grooming your Newfoundland can be a breeze. So, let’s discuss 10 expert grooming tips that will help you keep your canine buddy looking and feeling great.

The 9 Newfoundland Dog Grooming Tips

1. Keep Their Coats Brushed

Brushing is the most important part of grooming your Newfoundland dog. It helps to remove dirt, debris, and loose fur from their coat, as well as prevent matting. To brush your Newfoundland, you’ll need a slicker brush and a wide-tooth comb. Start by brushing your dog’s coat with a slicker brush, working in small sections. Be gentle, as Newfoundlands have sensitive skin. Brush in the direction of the hair growth and be sure to focus on the areas where matting is most likely to occur, such as behind the ears and under the legs.

After brushing with the slicker brush, use the wide-tooth comb to remove any remaining tangles. This will help prevent matting and make your dog’s coat look smooth and shiny. Be sure to comb gently and avoid pulling on any knots or tangles.

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2. Deal With Shedding ASAP

Unfortunately, these pups are heavy shedders, especially during the spring and fall when they shed their winter and summer coats. To deal with shedding, be sure to brush your dog regularly to remove loose fur. Consider using a deshedding tool, which can help remove even more fur and prevent matting. You can also try feeding your Newfoundland a high-quality diet and supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids (and vitamin E), which can help improve coat health and reduce shedding.

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3. Give Them a Bath When Needed

Newfoundlands don’t need to be bathed as often as some other breeds, but they do require regular baths to keep their coats clean and healthy. Aim to bathe your Newfoundland every 2 months, or as needed if they get particularly dirty or smelly.

When bathing your pup, use a gentle, canine shampoo and warm water – never hot water that you’d use for a shower. Wet your dog gently but thoroughly, including the face and the exterior of their ears, and lather up the shampoo. Always rinse your Newfoundland’s coat thoroughly, as any leftover residue can cause skin issues and irritation.

After the bath, use a towel to dry your dog’s coat, being sure to remove as much water as possible. You can also use a hair dryer on a low setting but be sure to keep it at a safe distance from your dog’s skin to avoid burning them.

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4. Keep Those Nails Trimmed

Newfoundlands have large, strong nails that can grow quickly, so it’s important to keep them trimmed to avoid discomfort and injury when the dog is active. You can trim your dog’s nails at home using a pair of canine nail clippers.

To trim your dog’s nails, use clippers to trim just the tip of the nail, being careful not to snip them too low, where the blood vessels are (aka “the quick”). If you happen to snip this area by accident, apply some wound ointment or styptic powder to stop the bleeding.

If you’re not confident that you can trim your dog’s nails without injury, or if your dog is particularly anxious or resistant (such as moving a lot or constantly pulling their paw back), consider taking them to a professional groomer or vet for help.

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5. Clean Their Ears Thoroughly

Newfoundlands have floppy ears that can trap dirt and moisture, making them prone to infection. To keep your dog’s ears clean and healthy, it’s important to clean them once every 1–2 months. Cleaning them more often than this may cause irritation and shouldn’t be done without a vet’s recommendation.

The good news is that their ears are pretty easy to clean, you can simply use a disposable cloth designed especially for this, which you can purchase at any pet store. Or you can use some cotton swabs, and even a little ear cleaning solution if there is a lot of dirt and debris in there. Be careful not to push dirt and debris down into the dog’s ear canal, as this can lead to infection. Instead, wipe in circles to bring any debris in there toward you and out of the year.

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6. Brush Their Teeth Weekly

Just like humans, dogs need regular dental care to keep their teeth and gums healthy. To clean your Newfoundland’s teeth, use a canine-based toothbrush and toothpaste – not toothpaste and toothbrushes from your own personal medicine cabinet. Start by getting your dog used to the taste and texture of the toothpaste. It even helps to allow them to lick a small bit off your finger, then gradually introduce the toothbrush. Brush your dog’s teeth in a circular motion, being sure to reach all areas of the mouth.

Aim to brush your dog’s teeth at least once a week. But if your pup is resistant to dental care, consider using dental chews or toys to help keep their teeth clean. And of course, you can always trust a vet or a qualified groomer to perform this task for you – something that may be beneficial to dogs that put up a struggle while having their teeth cleaned.

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7. Trim Their Coats Every 2–3 Months

While Newfoundlands have a thick, double coat that helps keep them warm in cold weather, it can also become matted and uncomfortable if left unattended. To keep your dog’s coat in top condition, consider trimming it about every 2 to 3 months. If you aren’t able to do this yourself, you can just take your dog to the groomer. You can trim your dog’s coat at home using scissors or clippers but be sure to take your time and be careful not to cut your Newfoundland’s skin by trimming too low.

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8. Take Care of Their Paw Pads

These playful pups have fairly large and really sturdy paws that can take a lot of wear and tear. To keep your dog’s paws healthy and comfortable, it’s important to care for them regularly. So how do you do that? One, you need to trim the dog’s nails when they grow too long or they can affect the dog’s gait. You can also use a moisturizer or paw balm to keep your dog’s paws soft and prevent them from cracking – something that may be an issue if your dog has skin problems.

If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, check their paws regularly for cuts, scratches, or foreign objects like burrs. Always use a gentle, dog-specific antiseptic to clean any wounds and stay on the lookout for any signs of infections such as bad smells, oozing pus, or limping.

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9. Be Sure to Get Their Eyes Checked

This is where regular vet appointments can come in handy. It can be hard to determine if something is wrong with your dog’s eyes if you can’t see any visible issues – but that doesn’t mean that certain conditions and diseases aren’t in development. Newfoundlands have big, beautiful eyes that can be prone to irritation and infection like any other dog. You can wipe your dog’s eyes with a cotton ball or damp cloth to remove any debris or a discharge. If you notice any signs of eye irritation or infection, like redness, swelling, or discharge, contact your vet for advice.

Most Common FAQs on Newfoundlands

Where did Newfoundlands come from?

These dogs were originally bred by fishermen in the 1700s in Newfoundland, Canada to be working dogs that could help with fishing and rescue missions. They were known for their incredible swimming abilities and their ability to pull heavy loads on land. In addition to their working abilities, Newfoundland dogs were also known for their loyalty and friendly nature. They quickly became popular pets among the fishermen and were eventually introduced to Europe, where they gained a lot of popularity among royalty and the upper class.

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How heavy do Newfoundlands get?

Newfoundlands are large dogs that can grow to be quite heavy. On average, male Newfoundlands can weigh anywhere from 130 to 150 pounds, while females tend to weigh slightly less at 100 to 120 pounds. The weight of a Newfoundland can vary based on several factors, including genetics, diet, and activity level. It’s important for owners to monitor their dog’s weight and ensure they’re maintaining a healthy size through proper nutrition and exercise.

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Are Newfoundlands friendly dogs?

Yes, they are. Newfoundland dogs are known for their friendly, gentle nature, making them perfect family pets. They are often referred to as “gentle giants” due to their large size and kind temperament. These dogs are excellent with children and have a patient and protective nature, making them ideal for families with young kids. They’re also very loyal and affectionate towards their owners and enjoy spending quality time with their human family members. Newfoundland dogs are also known for being good with other pets, including cats and smaller dogs, making them a great addition to multi-pet households.

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What are the most common health problems for a Newfoundland?

Two of the most common health issues that Newfoundlands face are hip dysplasia and heart disease. Hip dysplasia is a common canine condition that occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly. This can lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis. The heart issue Newfoundlands may experience is called aortic stenosis, and it’s a condition where the heart’s aortic valve doesn’t open properly.

Additionally, Newfoundlands may be prone to gastric torsion or bloat, which occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. This can be a life-threatening emergency and requires immediate veterinary attention. As with any dog breed, it’s important to be aware of these health concerns and to take steps to prevent them whenever possible.

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How many daily calories should I feed for my Newfoundland dog?

When it comes to calculating the daily calorie requirements for your Newfoundland dog, there are a few factors that need to be taken into consideration. The size, age, activity level, and overall health of your dog can all impact their caloric needs. On average, it’s recommended that a healthy adult Newfoundland dog should consume between 1,600 to 2,100 calories per day. However, this number can vary depending on your dog’s individual needs. If your dog is more active or has a higher metabolism, they may require more calories.

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What are the best activities to do with my Newfoundland?

Newfoundland dogs are active and highly adaptable and can participate in a variety of activities. They excel at water sports such as swimming and diving and are also great at pulling carts or sleds. Some of the best activities to do with your Newfoundland include hiking, swimming, and playing games like fetch or tug-of-war. These activities not only provide great exercise for your pup, but also give you an opportunity to bond with your pet. Additionally, training sessions can be a fun and rewarding way to engage your Newfoundland’s mind and teach them new skills.

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Where to find a Newfoundland Dog for adoption or purchase?

If you’re interested in adding a Newfoundland to your family, there are several options for adoption or purchase. The first place to look is at your local animal shelter or rescue organization – though finding a puppy there may be pretty rare. If you’re looking for a specific color or age of Newfoundland, you may want to consider purchasing from a reputable breeder. Look for breeders who are registered with a national breed club and who have a good reputation in the community. And of course, you can always ask around to your friends, coworkers and neighbors to see if anyone has a litter.

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Do Newfoundlands like the snow?

Yes, it seems so. Newfoundlands are known for their love of water, but they also have a great affinity for the snow. These large and powerful dogs have a thick double coat that keeps them warm in cold temperatures, making them well-suited for snowy environments. Many Newfoundlands enjoy playing in the snow and will happily bound through drifts, roll around, and even dig tunnels. In fact, their webbed feet make them excellent at navigating through deep snow. As with any breed (and dog), there may be individual variations in their water affinity, but overall they seem to like it.

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How much does it cost for a brand new Newfoundland puppy?

The cost of a new puppy will depend on your location, the breeder, and overall pedigree. On average, a brand new Newfoundland puppy can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000. So yes, these dogs are fairly expensive and let’s not forget the extra cost that you’ll need to pay for vet care and initial supplies and setup.

Wrapping Things Up

Newfoundlands are large, fluffy dogs that are fun to own. While they don’t necessarily need more grooming than other dog breeds, their thick fur can become easily matted if not properly maintained. It’s recommended that you brush their coats regularly as well as keep their nails trimmed and ears clean to keep them from getting infections or experiencing discomfort. While grooming may seem like a hassle, it’s an essential part of caring for your canine pal and can prevent health issues down the road.

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Featured Image Credit: Oleg Mirabo, Shutterstock