General Appearance
The Newfypoo is a large, strong, and balanced dog combining the power and endurance of the Newfoundland with the elegance and coat qualities of the Poodle. It should present as a “gentle giant”— robust yet graceful, well proportioned and capable of both work and companionship.
Size, Proportion & Symmetry
-
Ideal Height: 22 to 30 inches at the shoulder (depending on standard or larger lines)
-
Ideal Weight: 70 to 150 pounds for standard size Newfypoo
-
Proportions: Slightly longer in body than height (i.e., length from prosternum to tail base may exceed height by ~5–10%)
-
Symmetry: No exaggerated or underdeveloped features; limbs and body parts should present in balanced relation
Head & Expression
-
Skull: Broad, slightly rounded but not coarse
-
Muzzle: Medium to long, straight, tapering but not overly narrow
-
Stop: Moderate, not abrupt
-
Eyes: Almond to round; preferably dark (brown or darker), with intelligent and kind expression
-
Ears: Medium set, hanging or semi-drop (often inherited from Newfoundland or Poodle), covered in coat
-
Dentition: Full complement, scissors bite preferred
Neck, Body & Topline
-
Neck: Strong, muscular, of moderate length, blending well into shoulders
-
Topline: Level or very gently sloping from withers to croup
-
Chest: Broad and deep, reaching to at least the elbows
-
Ribs: Well-sprung but not barrel-chested
-
Abdomen: Slight tuck-up from the bottom of ribs to hindquarters
Forequarters & Hindquarters
-
Forelegs: Straight and strong, well boned. Shoulders well-laid back.
-
Pasterns: Slight slope, not weak
-
Hindquarters: Strong and muscular with moderate angulation; hocks well let down, turning neither in nor out
-
Feet: Large, round, well-padded, slightly webbed (inherited from Newfoundland)
Coat, Color & Texture
-
Coat type: Wavy to curly, medium to long. Can vary between more Poodle-type curls or more Newfoundland-type wave.
-
Texture: Dense, water-repellent, slightly oily undercoat possible
-
Shedding: Low to moderate; many Newfypoos benefit from hypoallergenic traits from Poodle side
-
Colors: Solid or parti in black, brown, gray, cream, silver, or combinations. White markings allowed on chest, toes, face.
-
Coat maintenance: Regular brushing, occasional trims; shading and mixed markings acceptable
Gait & Movement
Movement should be smooth, free, powerful, and balanced. In trot or extended gait, limbs track straight forward and backward with good reach and drive. The topline should remain stable. No paddling, weaving, or crossing.
Temperament & Behavior
-
Disposition: Friendly, affectionate, sociable—often described as “gentle giants.”
-
Intelligence: Highly trainable, eager to please (Poodle influence)
-
Protective instincts: May exhibit loyalty and protective tendencies from Newfoundland side
-
Family compatibility: Excellent with children and other animals when socialized early
-
Vocalization: Moderate; alert bark when appropriate but not unduly noisy
Health & Lifespan
-
Average Lifespan: 8–12 years (common for large hybrids)
-
Common health concerns to monitor:
• Hip and elbow dysplasia
• Bloat / gastric dilation volvulus (as with large breeds)
• Heart conditions
• Eye conditions (e.g. progressive retinal atrophy)
• Joint degeneration / ligament issues
Regular health screening, responsible breeding, and moderation in weight are encouraged.
Registry Notes & Classification at DKC
-
Newfypoos may initially be entered under Foundation Dog Registration if no prior papers or lineage exist
-
Once established, litters can be registered under the Newfypoo breed name
-
DKC’s papers will list “Newfypoo” as the official breed designation for accuracy and clarity, rather than defaulting to Newfoundland or Poodle
-
Breeders should submit photos of adults, parents (if known), and puppies to support breed consistency