Newfoundland Dogs: The Best Companions One Could Have

Newfoundland Dogs: The Best Companions One Could Have

LETTERS TO THE PROMPT

Reflecting on the question of which animals make the best or worst pets, I find myself inclined to believe that all animals possess unique personalities. It’s my contention that there are no inherently “bad” pets; rather, there are those who have suffered abuse, neglect or irresponsible breeding practices, leading to behaviours that may seem aggressive or fearful. These circumstances can render them unpredictable and challenging to care for. However, it should be noted that keeping wild animals as pets is never advisable, as they may pose a danger to human safety or struggle to adapt outside their natural habitats.

These musings transport me back to my childhood spent on a quiet lane in Soestduinen, where our household was filled with the companionship of dogs, pigeons, rabbits, and a birdcage. Allow me to journey into that distant past and reminisce about the first dog my parents bestowed upon me in the aftermath of the great war.

Returning to a house once confiscated by the Germans, amidst the reconstruction, entered into my life a delightful Newfoundland dog named Benno. This gentle giant-to-be, initially a mere bundle of fur, would evolve into a remarkable amalgamation of size, strength, loyalty, and a sweet-natured temperament. Benno swiftly became the ultimate friend, confidant, and guardian a young boy could hope for.

Benno wasn’t just a pet; he was a cherished companion whom I bonded with during the formative years of my childhood. In truth, it felt as though we didn’t own Benno; rather, he held ownership over us. Fond memories flood my mind, of winters spent watching him attempt to catch snowflakes, and summers where he faithfully trailed me along the quiet lane or chased after birds. Yet, his favourite pastime often involved lounging in the cool shade of the garden’s towering trees or seeking solace on the cold marble floor of our home’s hallway.

I recall Benno’s droopy lips and jowls, much to my mother’s occasional dismay when he’d shake his massive head, causing drool to fly. However, any frustration quickly dissipated upon meeting his endearing gaze. When Benno eventually passed away, I witnessed my father’s tears as he laid him to rest in the back of our garden, where he would forever remain a poignant reminder of his enduring presence.

While Newfoundland dogs were not the sole canine companions of my upbringing, I’ve come to realize that Newfoundland owners often form profound bonds with their pets that endure throughout life—a sentiment that has certainly held true in my own experience. This relationship also serves as an early reminder of life’s permanence and the inevitable reality that most pet owners will outlive their beloved companions—a truth that carries its own weight of sadness.

However, akin to all breeds, Newfoundland dogs are prone to specific health concerns that can diminish their quality of life or shorten their lifespan. It was particularly distressing when my last Newfoundland, Lady Aphrodite, began to suffer from health issues, notably hip dysplasia, a hereditary condition affecting the hip joints and leading to a form of arthritis. This condition significantly impaired her mobility, prompting me to face the agonizing decision of euthanasia. Witnessing her peacefully drift into sleep with her head resting on my lap remains etched vividly in my memory—a poignant moment marking our final journey together.

In 1994, author-photographer Bruce Weber paid a heartfelt tribute to his beloved dog “Rowdy,” as well as the Newfoundland breed itself and the individuals who adore themo. His enchanting book, “Gentle Giants,” features the poem “A Newfound Prayer” by Patti Smith, a piece also found in her earlier works. Through Smith’s poignant verses, one can’t help but feel a profound sense of intimacy and connection. The imagery of a child’s heart, the protective vigilance during slumber, and the shared odyssey through nature all contribute to the poem’s emotional resonance.

A Newfound Prayer

(Patti Smith)

“Child with heart so raven wild,

I have known you well.

I have guarded you in sleep

and with the morning bell,

we would tramp the blessed field,

ramble through the pine

all my loyalty was yours

all your joys were mine…

this is my newfound prayer.”

WJJH-12.4.2024

Musings on the question “which animals make the best or worst pets”leads to the belief that all animals have unique personalities. There are no inherently “bad” pets, but abuse or neglect or irresponsible breeding practices can lead to challenging behavior. Newfoundland dogs, like with my dogs Benno and Lady Aphrodite, form profound and enduring bonds with their owners, this sentiment is echoed in Patti Smith’s moving poem, “A Newfound Prayer,” reflecting the intimate connection between humans and these gentle giants.