SIZE, PROPORTION & SUBSTANCE
Average height for adult dogs is 28 inches, for adult bitches, 26 inches. Approximate weight of adult dogs ranges from 130 to 150 pounds, adult bitches from 100 to 120 pounds. The dog’s appearance is more massive throughout than the bitch's. Large size is desirable, but never at the expense of balance, structure and correct gait. The Newfoundland is slightly longer than tall when measured from the point of shoulder to point of buttocks and from withers to ground. He is a dog of considerable substance, which is determined by spring of rib, strong muscle, and heavy bone.
The Newfoundland must have symmetry and balance, so that no part appears exaggerated nor out of proportion with the other parts. The dog should impress the eye with substance, strength, and agility, and should not appear leggy, weedy, or shelly in body.
Large size is desirable, but never at the expense of temperament, type, structure, soundness and correct movement. Size is determined by height and substance; both are of equal importance. A Newfoundland in correct weight is not a fat, soft dog. Excess weight may appear as substance, so it is necessary to feel for good bone, spring of rib, and firm muscle.
It is helpful in judging to have an idea of the proportions of an animal. In the Newfoundland, the following proportions are approximately correct. 1. He is slightly longer than he is tall. 2. The skeletal structure measured from the withers to the lowest part of the chest (brisket) should be at least 50% of the dog’s total height. However, skin, muscle, and coat make this distance appear proportionally greater so that in profile, it appears to be approximately 55%. 3. The distance from withers to elbow is approximately 50% of the total height and from elbow to ground, about 50%. Variations in these proportions become apparent when the dog moves and appears to be "running downhill."
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