Life With Newfoundlands In The Fall

The story goes, that a Newfoundland is more than just a dog, they’re a lifestyle and the longer you’re owned by this wonderful breed, the more that story makes sense.

It’s a very special kind of lifestyle and not everyone is meant for it.

But if you’re one of the lucky ones, then you know.

The Newfie lifestyle has its ups and downs, pros and cons, challenges and triumphs.

And the change in seasons has ALL of that.

With spring we have mud, coat blow and tons of rain. 

In summer we have heat and humidity. 

With winter there’s the snowballs and selective hearing. 

This brings me to our current season, Fall. 

Fall is messy but it’s also my favorite season, especially because I’m blessed to share it with a Newfoundland.

I get so excited for fall every year that I always forget about some of the challenges that it brings and that’s probably because it’s easy to overlook them.

After all, the beauty is what stands out. 

Anyway, as the first week of fall winds down I thought it would be fun to take a look at the pros and cons of life with a Newfoundland during the fall season. 

The Pros

1. Cooler Weather, More Energy!

After a long summer of lounging inside and avoiding the heat and humidity, it’s time for Newfoundlands to come out of hibernation.

As the crisp cool air starts to flow in, Newfies get up, stretch their legs and walk outside with their heads held high and swanky swagger in tow.

Not only is it their time to shine but it also means that snow is near and they know it!

It’s finally time to bring the bears along for more adventures without the worry of them overheating. 

Whether it’s hiking through the woods, taking a long stroll in the park, or even splashing through some shallow streams (because let’s face it, a Newfie can’t resist water), your Newfoundlands will have boundless energy to burn and maybe even some zoomies.

2. Pumpkin Patches and Apple Orchards

One of the best parts of autumn is visiting pumpkin patches or apple orchards, and your Newfoundland will be thrilled to tag along to any pet-friendly farms.

In fact, some pumpkin patches even have a dedicated day where Newfoundlands will haul your pumpkins from the patch to your car!

It’s pretty cool.

If you do head out to a public place with your Newf this fall, just be ready for a lot of common questions from curious strangers! 

3. Scenic Walks Among the Fall Colors

Fall is my favorite time of the year to take pictures of my Newfoundlands.

It doesn’t matter what color of Newfie you have, all of them look amazing standing in front of a backdrop of bright red, gold, and orange leaves.

Newfoundlands and fall go together like hot cocoa and marshmallows!

There’s something magical about enjoying the fall foliage with your Newfoundland by your side.

Plus, Newfoundlands’ easy-going nature makes these peaceful strolls all the more enjoyable.

The Cons: 

Newfoundlands are a messy breed, we all know that already. 

They shed, they drool, they’re always wet and everything sticks to their hair. 

But fall takes it to another level. 

1. The Mud Emerges

While fall brings cooler weather, it also brings rain, which means mud.

Lots of mud.

It’s the beginning of mud season which is a season that doesn’t end until the ground freezes and depending on where you live, that time is never or June. 

Unless you have a Newfie that doesn’t like mud, then you know they don’t tiptoe around puddles.

They step in them, splash in them, stand in them, and lay down in them.

It’s time to bring out the bucket and prepare your army of towels. 

 

2. Leaves and Debris Everywhere

Newfoundlands have a thick, double coat, which is great for staying warm but their guard hair also works like a magnet for leaves, twigs, and pretty much any outdoor debris.

After every romp in the yard or walk through the woods, you’ll find yourself picking out leaves and who-knows-what from their fur.

They also always find a way to bring a bundle of wet leaves inside (usually stuck to their hock, tail, or front leg feathers) and then graciously drop them on the floor or furniture. 

You don’t need faux leaves, your Newfoundland will gather them for you and deliver them to your couch. 

3. Fall Shedding Season

Most people know that dogs with a double coat blow their coats in the spring but they also blow coat in the fall.

Their fall shed isn’t as heavy as their spring shed but the fur does fly.

Be prepared for extra brushing sessions and a house that is filled with leaves wrapped in dog hair. 

4. Reluctance to Come Inside

Once your Newfoundland gets a taste of that crisp fall air, good luck getting them to come inside!

They’re waiting for that first snowflake to fall and you’re not going to make them miss it. 

Newfoundlands love being outdoors, especially in cooler weather, and they might suddenly develop selective hearing when it’s time to go back inside.

You’ll find yourself standing at the door, calling their name, while they give you the “But I’m so comfortable out here” look from across the yard.

Get the “high-value” treats ready and maybe some peanut butter wrapped bacon. 

It’s All Good

No matter the mess, fall with a Newfoundland is a beautiful adventure and Newfoundland owners embrace the change of the season and overlook the challenges. 

Sometimes we laugh because if we don’t, we’ll cry but we all know that they’re worth it. 

Happy Fall. 

Love. Laugh. Drool. 

And don’t forget the towels:)

 

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