Swiss Newfie History
The Swiss Mountain Dog, or Schweizer Sennenhund, is a working and herding dog that originated in Switzerland. It is the largest of the four types of Swiss mountain dogs and is modeled after the extinct Great St. Bernard. It is used for draft work, carting, guarding, therapy, obedience, tracking, search and rescue, avalanche rescue, and as guard dogs.
Swiss Newfie Physical Characteristics
The Swiss Newfie is a medium-sized, short-coated breed of working dog that was originally bred in Canada as a water retriever. They have a muscular, strong body and weigh between 45 and 60 pounds. They stand between 17 and 20 inches at the shoulder and they have a flat, broad head. The Swiss Newfie has a rectangular face and a medium-length muzzle. Their nose is dark brown and they have dark, round eyes. They have a complete set of evenly spaced, white teeth that meet in a scissors bite. Their neck is slender and they have broad shoulders. Their forefeet are strong and rectangular and their rear legs are straight and strong. They have thick, water-resistant coats that come in fawn, sable, and black.
Eye Colors
Brown
Nose Colors
Black
Coat Colors
Black, Brown, Gray, Pied
Height Range
Male Height Range: 25 – 29 inches
Female Height Range: 23 – 27 inches
Weight Range
Male Weight Range: 120 – 145 lbs
Female Weight Range: 90 – 115 lbs
Swiss Newfie Health
Description of breed health.
Lifespan
8-12 yrs
Swiss Newfie Health Concerns
Elbow Dysplasia, Canine Hip Dysplasia (Chd), Subaortic Stenosis, Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat, Ectropion, Cherry Eye, Cataracts, Pemphigus, Exposure Keratopathy Syndrome, Tricuspid Valve Dysplasia, Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), Urolithiasis
Swiss Newfie Temperament and Behaviour
The Swiss Newfie is a gentle and family-oriented breed of dog. They are very intelligent, calm, and good-natured. They are generally quiet and will bark only when necessary. They are social and friendly with humans, but tend to be wary of strangers.
Swiss Newfie Activity Requirements
The Swiss Newfie was once used as a watchdog and all-purpose farm dog. This large, lovable, and hard-working dog was bred to pull carts, herd cattle, and watch over flocks. Today, they are primarily kept as loyal companions. While the Swiss Newfie is considered a fairly low-energy dog, they do require regular exercise. Daily walks or runs are a good way to give your Newfie the physical and mental stimulation they need to be healthy and happy. While the Swiss Newfie does enjoy running, they are more content to exercise by playing. A game of fetch or tug-of-war will keep your puppy happy, as well as give them a workout. If you are looking for a companion that will keep you company on the couch, a Swiss Newfie may not be the best choice. However, if you are looking for a great companion who will share some adventures with you, this gentle, friendly, and laid-back pup may be just right for you.
Miles Per Day
14 miles
Activity Per Day
60 minutes
Daily Food
3.5 cups
Kennel Club Recognition
American Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Swiss Newfie is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the American Kennel Club website.
The Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Swiss Newfie is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Kennel Club website.
Australian National Kennel Council
Not Recognized
Swiss Newfie is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.
Canadian Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Swiss Newfie is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.
