I posted this information on a dogs board I co-host....it's just general info I found on the web, but there are some links included and I would suggest you start your research there!!! GOOD LUCK!!
A General Description
The Newfoundland is a large, strong, heavy-coated, active dog equally at home in the water and on land. He is a multipurpose dog, capable of heavy work. His unique gentleness, even temper and devotion make him an ideal companion for child or adult.
In Newfoundland he was used as a working dog to pull nets for the fishermen and to haul wood from the forest. Elsewhere he patiently did heavy labor of all kinds, powering the blacksmith's bellows and the turner's lathe. The oily nature of his double coat (which effectively keeps him from getting wet to the skin), his webbed feet, his deep, broad chest and well-sprung ribs make him a natural swimmer. He has true life-saving instincts and is renowned in this role.
Despite his heavy coat, a Newf adapts to warm as well as to cool climates. In warm climates the long outer coat remains, but the undercoat thins out to some degree. The warmer the weather, the more careful one must be to provide plenty of shade and fresh water. Do not to leave a Newf in the sun, especially in a parked car, unattended.
Some Thoughts about if a Newf is Right for You
Once the Newfoundland breed has caught your fancy, you should take time to learn as much as you can about the breed before you invest in a cute puppy. There are many ways to further your education: going to dog shows, attending meetings of the nearest regional Newf club, and comparing Newfs whenever possible. Love does seem to be a warm puppy, but slow down and see if an adult Newfoundland is what you want to live with for the next ten years or so. Acquiring any dog should be a family decision made with the intention of keeping the dog forever. Telling a child, "You can have a dog as long as you take care of it, but if you don't, we'll get rid of it," is not fair to the dog. It also is a poor lesson for the child - it tells him a once loved, living creature can be easily disposed of when it becomes a bit of a bother. If you have any doubt about your ability to afford the dog or to take proper care of it, don't get one.
What health problems are particular to the breed?
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a problem in the breed and can be crippling for a dog of this size. It is highly advisable to buy a puppy only from from OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) certified parentage, or dogs who have had equivalent X-ray certification of their joints (hips and elbows are both a good idea).
Cardiac Problems
Cardiac problems also occur. Newfoundlands have a genetic predisposition for hereditary heart disease known as sub-aortic stenosis (SAS). This disease can result in the premature death of a Newfoundland. Responsible breeders screen their puppies for SAS at 8-12 weeks of age by having a veterinary cardiologist listen to the puppy's heart. All adult Newfs should be recleared of SAS before breeding.
Preliminary Care
Naturally, Newfies, like all dogs, must be properly innoculated (see FAQ). Remember that the entire series of shots must have been received before you expose your pup to any other dog, or even any ground an unvaccinated dog may have walked on, as the effectiveness of the innoculations may have been blocked by the immunity provided by the mother for any or all of the shots given earlier in the series. The only way you know that the pup is protected is when he/she has received the last shot of the series.
What kind of exercise do they need?
The grown Newfoundland does not require a great deal of exercise. They can become couch potatoes quite easily, but are willing and able to accompany you in more strenuous pursuits.
A Newf should never allowed to become fat, as this will significantly shorten an already too short life span. Regular exercise (brisk daily walks on lead) is a must for adults.
How is the Newfoundland with children?
The Newf is renowned for his gentleness, protectiveness and love for children. He is tolerant of behavior by children far beyond that which would make other breeds snap or walk away. Because of this he is ideally suited to being a child's companion, but the adult must accept the duty to protect the Newfie from abuse by the child. It is no accident that the Nana in the original Peter Pan was a Newfoundland.
The tranquil nature of the Newfoundland has been found to have such an excellent effect on hyperactive children that there was a clinical study done in the 1970s using Newfoundlands as a part of the therapy.
More Info
Newfoundland Club of America
AKC Info Page
