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The Newfoundland breed is believed to have been developed by fishermen and settlers of the island of Newfoundland, Canada. If you search online for the Newfoundland dog breed history, you might be surprised to find conflicting information. Which is true? No one really knows. Maybe one day there will be a way to find out, maybe not. Meanwhile, here are the existing theories…

The Newfoundland dog could have evolved from the American Black Wolf (now extinct) or from the Tibetan Mastiff that migrated to Scandinavia and North America from Asia. Many people consider the Tibetan Mastiff to be the basic stock from which most modern large working dog breeds were developed. The Mastiff accompanied Asian migrating armies as they expanded westward, which explains how this dog left its trail in Europe.

NEWFOUNDLAND
Official U.K.C. Breed Standard
Copyright 1992, United Kennel Club, Inc.

History

As the name indicates, the breed originated in Newfoundland from dogs native to the island. Various theories state that the big black bear dogs introduced by the Vikings around 1001 AD contributed to the breed’s makeup. As European fishermen began to spend summers fishing in the areas around the island, various other breeds came with them and helped to shape and reinvigorate the breed, although the essential characteristics were not changed. By 1610, when colonization was permitted, the distinct physical characteristics and mental attributes had been permanently established in the breed.
The Newfoundland was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1919.

Canadian Breed Standard
For the Newfoundland

Official Breed Standard for the Newfoundland

Origin and Purpose
The breed originated in Newfoundland from dogs indigenous to the island, and the big black bear dogs introduced by the Vikings in 1001 A.D. With the advent of European fisherman, a variety of new breeds helped to shape and re-invigorate the breed, but the essential characteristics of the Newfoundland dog remained. By the time of colonization was permitted in 1610, the distinct physical characteristics and mental attributes had been established in the breed for all time. The large size, heavy coat and webbed feet permit him to withstand the rigors of the extreme climate and sea while serving both as a lifeguard and draught animal.

Newfoundland Breed Standard
Working Group

General Appearance
The Newfoundland is a sweet-dispositioned dog that acts neither dull nor ill-tempered. He is a devoted companion. A multipurpose dog, at home on land and in water, the Newfoundland is capable of draft work and possesses natural lifesaving abilities.

The Newfoundland is a large, heavily coated, well balanced dog that is deep-bodied, heavily boned, muscular, and strong. A good specimen of the breed has dignity and proud head carriage.