TEMPERAMENT
Sweetness of temperament is the hallmark of the Newfoundland; this is the most important single characteristic of the breed.
The Newfoundland is typically friendly. Since sweetness of temperament is the most important single characteristic of the breed, shyness, fearfulness, and suspicion are unacceptable traits and should be penalized severely. Chapter 14, Section 8-a of the AKC rules provides for excusal or disqualification for dogs which menace or attack humans. Furthermore, it is not acceptable for a Newfoundland to menace or attack other dogs and any Newfoundland doing so should also be severely penalized.
DISQUALIFICATIONS
Any colors or combinations of colors not specifically described are disqualified.
GROOMING
There are basic hints that are suggested to make this dog more attractive and enhance his appearance. A Newfoundland should be clean and totally mat free. Remove all dead hair and loose coat with a brush and comb before bathing and trimming. Tidy up excess unruly hair that detracts from the dog. Excessive trimming is not encouraged. Do not create an "open coat" by back brushing, teasing, spraying and moussing.
Trim long hair along the edges of the ears and thin or trim long hair on and under the ears using straight edge scissors or thinning shears. Vibrissae (whiskers) need not be trimmed.
Trim feet for neatness following the outline of the foot. Trim the hair on the bottom of the foot even with the foot pad. Keep toenails short.
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