Golden Newfie

The history of the Golden Newfie requires us to look at the parent dogs for valuable characteristics. The Newfoundland's history is not clear, it is said to be a descendant of the Viking ‘bear dogs’ or may have been the Indian's nomadic dog. Others debate that it is a close relative of the Labrador. Still, other parties believe it originated from crosses between the Tibetan Mastiffs brought to Canada by British or European fisherman and the local dogs early in the 1700s. With such a vibrant history, this massive dog is much known for its skills in hauling in nets, carrying boat lines to shore, and retrieving objects and people that were washed overboard or from shipwrecks. Such is its courage and ability as a rescue dog that in 1919 a gold medal was awarded to a Newfoundland dog that pulled a lifeboat containing twenty ship wrecked people to safety. During World War II these brave dogs hauled supplies and ammunition for the armed forces, often in blizzard conditions. Their courage and bravery is well documented, but it is their devoted companionship that makes them a popular breed. The Golden Retriever originated in the 1800s in the Scottish Highlands. A gentleman known as Lord Tweedmouth has been credited for their creation when he concentrated on crossing the original yellow Flat-Coated Retriever with the Tweed Water Spaniel (now an extinct breed). During the process he used the Bloodhound, Irish Setter and more of the Tweed Water Spaniel dogs to produce the Golden Retriever. They were ideal dogs for retrieving water fowl during hunting parties. They also filled a key role as companions and trusted friends. Today the Golden Retriever is still used as a bird dog, but is also found in narcotics detection, service dog for the disabled, or a therapy dog. They make ideal guide dogs for the blind. The American Kennel Club recognised the dog in 1925.