How to Rescue Newfoundland Dogs

Named for their historical homeland, Newfoundland dogs have earned a following. They are loved for their gentle nature, intelligence, and work as water rescue dogs. Unfortunately, as with any dog breed, many of Newfoundland’s dogs are in need of rescue themselves. If you are seeking to rescue Newfoundland dogs, these steps will help you find the right match and prepare you for the unique needs of the breed.

Learn About Newfoundland Dogs

Immerse yourself in Newfoundland info.  First hit the book store for Newfoundland dog breed books. Choose books that are comprehensive and cover the breed’s history, breed standards, unique physical and disease concerns, temperament, care, and training.

Join a Newfoundland Dog Club

Ideally, for full immersion into the Newfoundland dog breed, you will be able to join a breed club. By joining a Newfoundland breed club, you’ll learn more about this large breed dog by attending events, shows, and talking with more experienced members. Through the club you are also sure to hear of dogs in need of adoption. Many breed clubs also take in and place rescue dogs as part of their operation.

Finding a Newfoundland Rescue Dog

As with any rescue dog, you have several options for finding rescue Newfoundland dogs. This includes looking at local animal shelters, the classifieds, and local rescue groups. However, because of the unique needs of this dog breed, most shelters send the dogs to people with a

great amount of experience with Newfoundlands. Your best chances of finding a Newfoundland in need of a home is through local ads placed by private owners wanting a new home for their dog, a breed club, or breed rescue.

There are pros and cons to each. By adopting from a Newfoundland breed club or rescue, you will be adopting a dog that has most likely had a veterinarian exam, is up to date on shots, and has lived in a foster home. With this you will know if the dog has health concerns, such as back problems, and you will get an honest evaluation of the dog’s personality. But a rescue may take longer for the adoption to finalize. When adopting from a private owner, you’ll get the dog quickly, but may get a less than honest evaluation of the dog’s health and temperament.

Consider Fostering First

Strongly consider fostering a rescue Newfoundland dog before adopting through a rescue group. Newfoundland’s dogs may be truly gentle giants, but they are giant balls of fur that slobber—a lot. Without proper training they can be pushy, and a small child or small person can easily get knocked down by a gentle shove from the pet gentle giant. They are also more expensive to care for than other pet dogs due to their size—they eat more and tend to need more veterinary care. Large dog medical problems can be more expensive. By fostering  as  your first step to rescue Newfoundland dogs, you’ll know if this breed fits into your family, home, and budget before you make a lifetime commitment.