Landseer
The Landseer, also known as the Landseer Newfoundland, is a large, powerful working breed that originated in Newfoundland, Canada. They are named after the renowned British painter Sir Edwin Landseer, who often depicted them in his artwork. The Landeer is considered a variety of the Newfoundland, with its white and black markings as the first coat color variety representative of the breed. They were originally bred as working dogs for water rescue and draft work. They have a strong swimming ability and were used to assist fishermen in retrieving fishing nets and rescuing drowning people.
- Origin
- Canada
- Alternate Names
- Landseer Newfoundland, Landseer ECT (European Continental Type)
- Life Expectancy
- 9-12 years
- Average Male Height
- 28-32 inch
- Average Female Height
- 26-29 inch
- Average Male Weight
- 140-180 lbs
- Average Female Weight
- 130-165 lbs
- Coat Length
- MediumLong
- Coat Type
- Double
- Coat Colors
- White & Black
- Coat Pattern
- Black Markings, White Blaze (Head), Ticking, Black Croup (Tail Base)
Genetic Predispositions and Health
Landseers can be affected by cystinuria, muscular dystrophy, signal transduction disorder, thrombopathia, and urolithiasis (cystine). As a larger dog breed, they are also at risk of developing orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia. Genetic testing is recommended, including for the following additional conditions: hyperuricosoria, degenerative myelopathy, and progressive rod-cone degeneration.
Personality and Behavior
Landseers are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They are intelligent, loyal, and social dogs that are generally good with children and other pets. Due to their working background, they have a strong work ethic and are willing to please their owners. They can be protective of their family, making them good watchdogs, but they are not aggressive by nature.
Fun Facts
Landseers are excellent swimmers and have webbed feet, which aids them in water rescues.
The Landseer's coat is double-layered, consisting of a dense, water-resistant outer coat and a soft, insulating undercoat. Their fur is medium to long in length, and it lies flat on their body.
The breed gained popularity in England during the 19th century, thanks to Sir Edwin Landseer's paintings featuring these dogs.
The Landseer is said to be a descendant of the now extinct St. John's Water Dog.
References
https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/breed/landseer
https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/LANDSEER-EUROPEAN-CONTINENTAL-TYPE-226.html
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/newfoundland/
https://www.ukcdogs.com/newfoundland