Golden Newfie

Quick Take

• Golden Newfies can top 130 pounds, but there is one behavioral trait that makes them surprisingly well-suited for families with young children. Meet the nanny dog →
• Their working-dog roots make Golden Newfies unusually easy to train, though one common training approach can backfire badly with this breed. See training tips →
• Golden Newfies carry a hidden heart condition that can cut their lifespan short, something most new owners never see coming. Learn about heart risks →
• That dense, beautiful coat hides a grooming trap in a spot most owners overlook, and skipping it can lead to serious infection. Check the ear care warning →

The Golden Newfie is a handsome and confident dog. It is a combination of golden retrievers and Newfoundland dogs. These hybrid dogs are sweet and gentle, known for being very patient with children. These crossbreed dogs are typically available through reputable breeders or can be adopted from rescue shelters.

Golden Newfies have dense fur and can often weigh more than 132 pounds. They need a lot of space and exercise, and are known to shed and drool a lot. These dogs were developed in the 20th century in the United States of America.

Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. They were originally bred in Scotland in the 1800s to hunt and retrieve waterfowl, but since then have become beloved for their gentle and loyal behavior as a family dog. Newfoundlands originated in the Canadian province of Newfoundland (hence the name) in the 1700s. They are much larger dogs than the Golden Retrievers and were bred as working dogs to haul in fishing nets and perform water rescues. They are also very loving and good with children.

3 Pros and Cons of Ownership

As wonderful as the Golden Newfies can be, they have their challenges. Here are some of the pros and cons of owning these dogs:

Size and Weight

Golden Newfies are giant dogs and can grow up to be 24 to 27 inches in size. They can weigh around 75 to 138 pounds.

Common Health Issues

Like every living creature, the Golden Newfie also tends to have certain health problems that it inherits from its parent breeds. Hip dysplasia is a common issue for this dog due to the potential for improper growth within the hip socket. Redness and irritation of the eyelids can lead the Golden Newfie to have a condition that is known as cherry eye.

Bloating and obesity are both common issues for Golden Newfies. However, with the right diet, these problems can easily be controlled by the owner.

Unfortunately, not every condition is as predictable. Even within a relatively short lifespan of 10 years, the Golden Newfie breed can succumb to a congenital heart defect called subaortic stenosis. This condition prevents proper blood flow and can shorten their lifespan.

Temperament

The temperament of a Golden Newfie is rather peaceful, and they are patient around the family’s children. They rarely become flustered, taking most things in stride. They bond closely with family members and can get quite protective of them. These dogs rarely get hostile or aggressive. They are often described as “nanny dogs,” as they are particularly caring towards the children and other young members of the family.

These dogs might look lazy, but that is not the case at all. They like to be out and about and are always eager to wander outdoors with you. They will also be happy to relax on your couch once they have had enough exercise for the day, which they need plenty of.

Most Golden Newfies get along very well with other animals. However, this might not always be the case, which is why it is important for owners to socialize these dogs from a very young age.

Care

The Golden Newfie may be lovable and active, but it needs proper care like any other pet. Here are a few ways new owners can make their pup feel welcome and safe in their home.

Best Dog Food

Golden Newfies are big dogs and have a large appetite. However, make sure that they do not overeat, as they are susceptible to obesity. For the best diet, feed your Golden Newfie a high-quality kibble that gives it plenty of protein. This type of food helps to fill up the dog quickly, reducing its urge to eat again and again throughout the day. Some dogs, like the Golden Newfie, are susceptible to bloat, so owners should be cautious not to let their dog eat too fast or too close to exercise time. Another consideration, if your Golden Newfie’s shedding is getting out of control, browse the various dog foods that help with excess shedding.

Maintenance and Grooming

Golden Newfies do not have the easiest coats to maintain. It is incredibly dense, potentially becoming matted if it is not kept in good condition. Regular brushing each day can prevent this type of issue. Make sure to detangle all areas, including the fur under the armpits, groin, and legs.

Always pay special attention to the ears to prevent infection. The Golden Newfie loves to get wet, and the folding of the ears can trap moisture without upkeep. Their ear canals have to be dried after every swim or bath. Check your dog’s ears every day for redness, discomfort, and waxy build-up.

Training

Both parent breeds of the Golden Newfie are working dogs. Therefore, it is easy to train these dogs, as they make obedient and eager students. They are quick learners and are very keen to learn new things from their owners.

They enjoy all opportunities to learn something new. In terms of trainability, owners do not need extensive experience to train these dogs. First-time dog owners can easily do so.

However, these dogs can be a little sensitive sometimes and may not respond well to harsh training methods and negative reinforcement. To get the best results, be patient with them and apply positive reinforcement. You can introduce tasty treats to make the training sessions more successful.

Exercise

Golden Newfies do need a substantial amount of exercise. They need at least an hour of exercise each day for them to be in good shape. These dogs love swimming, regardless of the weather. They instinctively know how to swim and tend to make rescue attempts for anyone they think might need help in water.

Puppies

The Golden Newfie puppies can be taken care of much in the same way as you take care of an adult Golden Newfie. They need to be fed good quality food, but in smaller quantities than adults, as their stomachs cannot digest food as quickly. Introducing the puppies to a social circle early on in life can be incredibly helpful, teaching them good habits for the future.

Children

As noted above, Golden Newfies are often called “nanny dogs” as they are known to be very protective of the kids in the family. They are very patient around the kids and act gently towards them. They are also very playful around the kids, but rarely get aggressive or hostile.

Similar Dogs

For those who may not be completely sold on this crossbreed dog, here are a few other options that are similar to Golden Newfies:

• Golden Retriever: These dogs are sweet, easy to train, and make playful companions for children in the family.
• Newfoundland: These dogs are known to be very patient and friendly. They have a strong build and personality.
• Bernese Mountain Dog: These dogs make excellent family dogs and are loved by many. They are also very intelligent.