3 Common Newfoundland Behavioural Issues (And How to Actually Solve Them)

If you're reading this, chances are you either:

1. Own a Newfoundland who's attempting to "rescue" every swimmer in sight
2. Are thinking about getting one and want to know what you're in for
3. Just googled "why does my Newfoundland jump in every puddle they see"

Let me be direct: Newfoundlands are incredible dogs. They're gentle giants with hearts as big as their bodies. But they come with some very specific challenges that most people aren't prepared for.

And here's the thing that frustrates me about most breed guides - they'll tell you these dogs were "bred for water rescue" and leave it at that. What they won't tell you is that this means your dog will attempt to drag your mate out of the pool at your next barbecue because they genuinely believe they're drowning.

Let's talk about the real issues Newfoundland owners face, and more importantly, how to manage them ethically.

Before We Start: A Quick Note on Training Philosophy

At The Toe Beans Co, we completely disagree with any method that uses fear, force, pain, or aggression. This has mostly been removed from modern dog training, but it still exists in pockets. If you're looking for those methods, this isn't the blog for you.

What we advocate for is simple: any ethical method done consistently beats any other method done inconsistently. Different personalities (both human and canine) match better with different approaches, but consistency always wins.

Our trainers work within the Relational Leadership quadrant - essentially, calm, consistent leadership creates safety and trust. That's the lens through which we'll approach these solutions.

Understanding What You've Got: The Newfoundland Background

Here's what you need to know: Newfoundlands weren't bred to sit on your couch and look pretty. They're ancient working dogs from Newfoundland, Canada, developed by fishermen in the 1700s-1800s for some seriously demanding maritime work.

They pulled drowning sailors to safety. They hauled fishing nets from freezing North Atlantic waters. They dragged carts loaded with fish and equipment. They made independent, life-or-death decisions in rescue situations.

That's not ancient history - that's genetics. That's what's wired into your dog's brain.

Modern Newfoundlands retain these instincts even though they're not working dogs anymore. Which brings us to our first major issue...

Issue #1: Water Obsession (AKA "I Must Rescue Everyone")

Why This Happens

Your Newfoundland was bred for centuries to have a natural water rescue instinct. They see someone in water, their brain says "HUMAN IN DANGER - MUST SAVE." It doesn't matter that your friend is happily swimming laps in the pool. Your dog's genetics are screaming at them to intervene.

They'll jump into any water they see - pools, ponds, decorative fountains, that puddle in the park. Some become so obsessive they refuse to come out of water once they're in, or whine constantly when they see water they can't access.

The Real Solution (Not Just "Train Them")

Here's what actually works:

Accept the drive exists. You're not going to train it out. You're going to manage and redirect it.

Provide appropriate outlets:

• Swimming in controlled environments where their "rescue" behaviour is acceptable (solo swims work well)
• Retrieving toys from water
• Dock diving or water sports that channel the drive appropriately

Teach rock-solid recall from water. This is non-negotiable. Practice in shallow areas first where you have control. Don't allow free swimming until recall is reliable.

For pool owners, ask yourself: Can you prevent pool access 100% of the time when you're not supervising? Can you manage their water drive effectively? If not, the combination of Newfoundland + backyard pool might not be appropriate for your situation.

Controlled water introduction: No free swimming until recall from water is bombproof. Start shallow. Build gradually. Always maintain control.

Issue #2: Heat Sensitivity & Exercise Limitations

Why This is Serious

Let me be blunt: Newfoundlands can die from heat. This isn't me being dramatic - it's a genuine risk.

These dogs were bred for icy North Atlantic waters. They have thick double coats. Many are black (absorbs heat). They're massive (retains heat). They overheat easily even in moderate temperatures.

Signs of overheating include excessive panting, bright red tongue/gums, drooling more than usual, lethargy, vomiting, and collapse. Heat stroke requires immediate emergency vet care and can cause permanent organ damage or death.

If you live in a hot climate (Southern US, Australia, etc.), you need to seriously consider whether a Newfoundland is the right breed for you.

The Real Solution

Climate control is non-negotiable:

• Air conditioning in summer is essential, not a luxury
• Never leave them in hot cars (even minutes can be fatal)
• Limit outdoor time in warm weather
• Always provide shade access

Provide cooling methods:

• Kiddie pools (they'll lie in them)
• Cooling mats
• Frozen treats
• Ice cubes in water bowls

Make swimming their primary summer exercise. Cool water exercise is safest - they get physical and mental work without overheating.

Watch for signs constantly, especially during exercise or warm days. Learn what normal looks like for your dog so you can spot problems early.

Issue #3: Drooling & General Messiness

Why This Happens

This isn't exactly a "behavioural problem," but it profoundly affects ownership experience and quality of life. So let's address it.

Newfoundlands have loose lips and jowls - it's a breed characteristic. This causes constant drooling. Long strings of drool on furniture, floors, walls, your clothes. They shake their heads and drool flies across rooms.

It increases when they drink water (water drips everywhere), before meals (anticipatory drooling), when hot, or when excited.

They're also generally messy: tracking mud and water into houses with massive paws, shedding heavily year-round (enough fur to make another dog), leaving wet spots wherever they lie after swimming.

The Real Solution

Accept this is breed reality. If you cannot tolerate drool and mess, choose a different breed. Full stop.

Implement management:

• Drool rags everywhere (wipe their mouth frequently)
• Washable furniture covers or leather furniture (easily wiped)
• Easily cleaned flooring (no carpet in main living areas)
• Towels by doors for drying paws/body after being outside

Grooming routine:

• Weekly thorough brushing removing dead undercoat (reduces shedding)
• Bath monthly or as needed
• Professional grooming every 2-3 months helpful for coat management

House setup matters: Tile/hardwood/laminate floors. No carpet. Multiple drool rags within reach everywhere.

Here's the truth: These dogs are worth the mess to people who love them. But that love requires accepting mess is a permanent part of life with a Newf.

What Most Breed Guides Won't Tell You

The reality is that most people underestimate what Newfoundland ownership requires. They're marketed as gentle giants (true) and great family dogs (can be true), but:

• Their giant size requires extensive training and management (a 130-pound dog with no manners is dangerous)
• Their heat sensitivity means they cannot live in hot climates (they can overheat fatally)
• Their water drive requires constant management (they will "rescue" people who don't want rescuing)
• Their health issues make ownership expensive (hip/elbow dysplasia, heart disease are common)

Well-bred Newfoundlands from health-tested lines, placed with families prepared for giant breed care in cooler climates, can be wonderful. But you need to be prepared for the reality.

The Bottom Line

Newfoundlands aren't dogs for everyone. They require:

• Temperate or cool climate (non-negotiable)
• Extensive training from 8 weeks old
• Management of water obsession
• Acceptance of constant mess and drooling
• Significant financial investment in vet care
• Time and commitment to exercise them safely

But if you're prepared for all of that? They're incredible dogs with gentle souls and loyal hearts.

The key is going in with your eyes open. Understanding what you've got. Working with their genetics, not against them. And committing to consistency in whatever ethical training method you choose.

What Next?

If you're struggling with your Newfoundland's behaviour, or you're thinking about getting one and want to be properly prepared, join our free community at The Toe Beans Co.

We have owners from around the world at all stages of the dog ownership journey. Weekly Q&As where you can ask questions. Comprehensive training resources. And most importantly - a community of people who actually get it.

No catch. No monthly subscription. Just dog owners who want the best for their pals.