How to Keep a Newfoundland's Coat Healthy and Shiny
Newfoundland puppies are celebrated in the United States for their impressive size and beautiful double coats, which are dense, oily, and resistant to water. Male Newfoundlands usually stand around 30 inches at the shoulder, with females being slightly shorter. Their signature thick fur and webbed feet make them excellent swimmers, perfectly suited to colder climates such as the northern US states and New England.
The variety of Newfoundland coat colors includes black and tan, brown, gray, solid black, and the elusive "Landseer" pattern—featuring charming white coats with black markings. This breed’s double coat merges a long, coarse outer layer with a plush, dense undercoat. Shedding happens moderately but intensifies during spring and fall when seasonal changes trigger fur loss.
1. Consistent Brushing and Combing
- To keep your Newfoundland's coat in top shape, brush at least 2-3 times weekly using a slicker brush. This removes loose hairs, dirt, and helps avoid mats, especially behind the ears and beneath the legs where tangles are common.
- After brushing, gently go over the coat with a wide-tooth comb or pin brush to detangle without causing discomfort or pulling hairs.
- An undercoat rake is especially useful during peak shedding seasons—spring and fall—to help shed the thick undercoat more efficiently and reduce fur around your home.
2. Controlling Shedding
Newfoundlands shed throughout the year with heavier shedding spikes in spring and fall. Routine grooming with deshedding tools can significantly manage shedding, reducing loose fur in your living areas and keeping your dog comfortable. Feeding a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E supports coat health and minimizes over-shedding. American pet owners often find supplements like fish oil beneficial.
3. Early Grooming Habits
Starting grooming when your Newfoundland is a puppy helps set a positive tone for lifelong coat care. Begin by gently handling their paws and coat regularly, which eases nail trims and fur brushing as they grow. Early adaptation also makes visits to the veterinarian or professional groomers more manageable for your dog.
4. Scheduling Professional Grooming
In the US, many Newfoundland owners rely on professional grooming services about three times per year—typically in spring, summer, and fall—to maintain their coat’s peak condition. Groomers provide thorough bathing, drying, trimming, and detangling. Still, professional grooming should complement—not replace—your regular home brushing routines.
5. Bathing Tips and Conditioning
Bathing a large Newfoundland can be challenging due to their size, but many enjoy water and swimming, which helps. Use high-quality dog shampoos designed to maintain skin moisture and conditioners to protect sensitive areas like tails and underbellies from damage. After washing, drying thoroughly with a high-velocity dryer is crucial to remove loose undercoat and prevent matting, especially in humid states like Florida.
6. Additional Grooming Essentials
Besides coat maintenance, regularly trim your dog’s nails to a comfortable length unless they naturally wear down through activity. Clean the ears weekly using a damp cotton ball, only removing visible wax to avoid harming ear canals. Early and regular teeth brushing promotes dental health; older dogs unfamiliar with brushing can benefit from dental chews and veterinary dental cleanings to prevent gum disease.
7. Key Grooming Observations
Daily brushing helps prevent troublesome mats, especially from burrs, twigs, or debris commonly picked up in summer outdoor activities popular in many US regions. Grooming also offers a chance to check your Newfoundland for cuts, sores, or skin problems early, ensuring timely veterinary care. Maintaining your dog’s coat not only enhances its appearance but also boosts comfort and overall well-being year-round.
By consistently applying these seven grooming principles—regular brushing and combing, shedding management, early grooming training, professional grooming visits, careful bathing and conditioning, attention to nails, ears, and teeth, plus vigilance for skin concerns—you’ll ensure your Newfoundland’s magnificent coat remains healthy, shiny, and comfortable.
