3 Common Newfoundland Behaviour Problems (And How To Fix Them)

Remember: Your Newfoundland was bred to save lives in the icy North Atlantic. That gentle giant dragging you towards the pool? They're just trying to keep you safe.

Where Do Newfoundlands Come From?

Newfoundlands are an ancient breed from Newfoundland, Canada. Fishermen developed them in the 1700s-1800s for maritime work. They likely descended from European dogs brought by fishermen and were bred for generations in harsh North Atlantic conditions.

What were they bred to do?

• Water rescue (pulling drowning sailors to safety)
• Hauling fishing nets from water
• Cart pulling on land
• Ship work (carrying rope between ship and shore)
• Companionship to fishermen in dangerous work

Key breeding traits

These dogs evolved into powerful swimmers with waterproof coats and webbed feet. They were bred to make independent decisions during water rescues and work in freezing conditions. Their giant size, incredibly gentle temperament, and strong water rescue drive remain today. They have moderate energy but need regular exercise. They're extremely heat sensitive due to their thick double coat and massive size.

Why Do Newfoundlands Have These Behaviour Problems?

Your Newfoundland was bred to work in icy North Atlantic waters. That thick double coat and massive body kept them warm whilst hauling fishing nets and rescuing drowning fishermen. Those same traits make them miserable in modern warm climates.

Their water rescue instinct was a life-saving trait. Modern Newfoundlands still carry this drive even though they're not working dogs. They genuinely believe people swimming need rescuing. It's not misbehaviour. It's centuries of breeding telling them to save lives.

Problem 1: Water Obsession

What's happening: Your Newfoundland jumps into pools, lakes, or any water they see. They try to "rescue" people who are swimming perfectly fine. They grab swimmers and drag them to shore. Some refuse to leave water once they're in it.

Why it happens: They were bred with natural rescue instinct for pulling drowning sailors to safety. This drive is genetic and hasn't disappeared just because they're pets now.

The fix:

• Accept water drive is genetic—you can manage and redirect it, not eliminate it
• Provide appropriate water outlets: swimming in controlled environments, dock diving, or water sports
• Teach rock-solid recall from water before allowing free swimming
• Practice in shallow areas first where you have control
• For pool owners: prevent pool access 100% or manage their water drive consistently
• Use swimming as a reward after training to satisfy their drive appropriately

Struggling with your Newfoundland's water obsession? Join our free Skool community for video demonstrations of recall training around water and troubleshooting help when your dog won't listen near pools or lakes.

Problem 2: Heat Sensitivity & Exercise Limitation

What's happening: Your Newfoundland pants excessively, drools more than usual, becomes lethargic, or collapses in warm weather. They struggle with exercise even on mild days.

Why it happens: They were bred for icy North Atlantic waters. Their thick double coat, black colouring, and massive size retain heat. They overheat easily even in moderate temperatures.

The fix:

• Only live in temperate or cool climates—these dogs suffer in hot regions
• Provide air conditioning in summer (non-negotiable, not a luxury)
• Limit outdoor time in warm weather
• Provide cooling methods: kiddie pools, cooling mats, frozen treats, ice cubes in water
• Watch for overheating signs: excessive panting, bright red tongue, lethargy, vomiting
• Use swimming as primary summer exercise—cool water exercise is safest
• Always provide fresh cool water with multiple stations
• Seek emergency vet care immediately if you suspect heat stroke

Worried about keeping your Newfoundland safe in summer? Our Skool community provides specific cooling protocols and exercise schedules for giant breeds, plus live Q&A sessions where you can ask about your climate concerns.

Problem 3: Drooling & General Messiness

What's happening: Long strings of drool on furniture, floors, walls, and your clothes. Drool flies across rooms when they shake their heads. Mud and water tracked everywhere. Heavy shedding year-round. Wet spots wherever they lie.

Why it happens: Newfoundlands have loose lips and jowls causing constant drooling. It increases when they drink water, before meals, when hot, or when excited. Their massive paws track mess, and they shed heavily.

The fix:

• Accept this is breed reality—if you can't tolerate mess, choose a different breed
• Keep drool rags everywhere and wipe their mouth frequently
• Use washable furniture covers or leather furniture that's easily wiped
• Install tile, hardwood, or laminate flooring (no carpet in main areas)
• Place towels by doors for drying paws after being outside
• Weekly thorough brushing removes dead undercoat and reduces shedding
• Bath monthly or as needed
• Professional grooming every 2-3 months helps with coat management
• Remember: these dogs are worth the mess to people who love them

Need practical house management tips? Our Skool community shares real photos and setups from other Newfoundland owners who've figured out how to live with the mess whilst keeping their homes comfortable.

Is a Newfoundland Right for a New Owner?

Newfoundlands can work for new owners if you're prepared for the commitment.

A gentle giant - Newfoundlands are known as "nanny dogs" for their patience with children. Their calm, sweet temperament makes them trustworthy family dogs despite their massive size.

A loyal companion - These dogs form strong bonds with their families. They were bred to be steady, reliable companions to fishermen in dangerous work. That loyalty remains today.

A moderate energy dog - Unlike some working breeds, Newfoundlands don't need constant activity. They're happy with regular walks and swimming sessions rather than marathon runs.

A trainable dog - Their gentle nature and willingness to work with humans makes them responsive to training. They want to please their families.

A water-loving dog - If you live near water and enjoy swimming, your Newfoundland will be your perfect companion. They genuinely love being in water.

Newfoundlands require commitment to grooming, management of mess, and living in appropriate climates. They're wonderful dogs for the right owner.

Get the Full Support System for Your Newfoundland

This article gives you real solutions you can start using today. But raising a Newfoundland is an ongoing journey, especially with their unique needs around water, heat, and size management.

That's why we created our free Skool community—to give you continuous support every step of the way.

Inside the community, you'll get:

• Weekly live Q&A sessions where you can ask about YOUR specific Newfoundland and get personalised advice from experienced trainers
• Full breed-specific courses covering everything from puppy raising to advanced behaviour modification
• A supportive community of other Newfoundland owners who understand exactly what you're going through
• Video demonstrations so you can see techniques in action, not just read about them
• Troubleshooting help when things don't go to plan (because they won't always!)
• Updated resources as we add new courses and training blueprints

Best part? It's completely free. No subscription. No catch. Just dog owners helping dog owners.

Join The Toe Beans Co community today and get the ongoing support you need to build the best relationship with your Newfoundland.