Hard
Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a massive, powerful working dog originally bred to assist fishermen in the cold waters of Canada. Their long, oily, water-resistant double coat keeps them warm in frigid conditions and requires specialized grooming — regular bathing with a degreasing or water-dog shampoo followed by thorough drying. The breed sheds heavily year-round with two intense seasonal blows.
Coat Type
Long, Oily, Water-Resistant Double Coat
Groom Every
Every 6-8 weeks
Styles Available
5 cuts
Cuts & Styles
Grooming Styles
1
Natural Newfie Coat
The full natural coat brushed to remove mats and dead undercoat, with minor neatening of the ears, paws, and tail. Preserves the breed's working-dog appearance.
2
Neatened Tidy
The natural coat maintained at full length with trimming of ear furnishings, paw feathering, and the underline for a cleaner, more manageable everyday look.
3
De-Shedding Treatment
A degreasing bath, deep conditioning treatment, and extended high-velocity blow-out to fully remove the loose undercoat. Most effective during seasonal coat blows.
4
Summer Trim
Thinning of the undercoat and light trimming of the longest body coat to improve airflow and comfort during hot weather, without removing the essential guard coat.
5
Show Preparation
Meticulous bathing with coat-enhancing products, full blow-dry, and careful brushing to maximize coat texture and volume for the show ring.
Expert Advice
Care Tips
- The oily Newfoundland coat requires a degreasing shampoo — standard dog shampoos do not fully clean the coat and leave a waxy, odorous residue. Follow with a heavy conditioner to restore softness.
- A large-breed dog takes a very long time to dry thoroughly — use a professional-grade high-velocity dryer and ensure the dense undercoat is completely dry before the session ends. Damp undercoat leads to skin infections and a musty smell within hours.
- Brush the feathering on the legs, tail, and ears daily if possible; these areas mat fastest due to friction and moisture from the dog's size and activity.
- During seasonal coat blows, the Newfoundland can shed an extraordinary volume of undercoat — daily brushing with an undercoat rake for three to four weeks dramatically reduces the amount deposited around the home.
- Check the large paw pads and between the toes regularly; the webbed feet trap moisture and debris, which can lead to fungal infections between the paw pads.
- The breed drools significantly — wipe the muzzle area after meals and drinking, and check for skin fold irritation around the lips where chronic moisture collects.
Recommended Tools
What you'll need
Miller's Forge Quality Nail Clipper
Nail CareUsed by professional groomers worldwide. Made of high-quality Italian stainless steel with a heavy-duty spring for clean, sharp cuts.
$10 - $15
Mars Coat King Undercoat Rake
BrushThe ultimate tool for double-coated breeds. Strips dead undercoat without damaging the guard hairs.
$40 - $60
FURminator Long Hair deShedding Tool for Dogs
BrushThe professional-grade deshedding tool that reaches deep beneath the long topcoat to safely remove loose undercoat without cutting or damaging the guard hairs. Reduces shedding up to 90% with regular use. Essential for heavy seasonal shedders like Collies, Golden Retrievers, and Maine Coons.
$30 - $65
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Deep Dives
Newfoundland Grooming Guides
Summer Grooming
Heat management, coat care, and seasonal tips.
Read guide
Winter Coat Care
Cold-weather protection and moisture balance.
Read guide
Shedding Season
Survive the seasonal blowout without losing your mind.
Read guide
Prevent Matting
Detangle, prevent, and protect their coat year-round.
Read guide
Best Brushes
The right tools for this specific coat type.
Read guide
Nail Trimming
Safe nail care frequency and technique.
Read guide
Ear Cleaning
Prevent infections with proper ear care.
Read guide
Bathing Guide
How often to bathe and which products to use.
Read guide
Grooming Cost
What professional grooming should cost for this breed.
Read guide
Hypoallergenic
Shedding, dander, and allergy-friendly coat care.
Read guide
First-Time Owner
Grooming basics for new owners of this breed.
Read guide
Skin & Allergies
Itchy skin, hot spots, and coat-sensitive care.
Read guide
Dental Care
Oral hygiene tied to coat and skin health.
Read guide
Flea & Tick
Parasite prevention without damaging the coat.
Read guide
Pro vs DIY
When to groom at home and when to hire a pro.
Read guide
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