TERRANOVA

There are many sides to the origin of the Terranova, but the most reliable seems the one that places its appearance in the Canadian areas that name it. It seems that the breed was selected in order to adapt it to the water, because of its fur, the webbed shape of its feet and, mostly, because it is an excellent swimmer that loves the aquatic environment. In the XIX century it crossed with the Saint Bernard, from which it inherited its altruistic qualities.

PHYSICAL TRAITS of the TERRANOVA
It is a large and athletic dog. Its resistance and vigor allow it to develop heavy rescuing tasks. The males are 71 cm high and weigh 64 and 69 kg, while females are not over 66 cm and weigh between 50 and 54 kg. The fur is dense, impermeable and oily, medium length, with an abundant and fine undercoat. The most common color is uniform black with blue highlights, but it can also be chocolate brown or black and white. It has a large and wide head, with many and deep creases in the face creases, wide and snub muzzle, and medium sized ears, slightly drooped toward the face, eyes small and dark, with a tender and melancholic gaze.

EXERCISE AND CARE required for a TERRANOVA
It is deeply generous, tolerant, and very affectionate, without needing to provide large affection demonstrations. It is intelligent, balanced and loyal. Well trained, it is an excellent guard dog. Despite its good temperament, it can be aggressive if it is excessively provoked. It is adapted basically for defense and work for which it is not recommendable for life in the city.

EXERCISE AND CARE required for a TERRANOVA
Its fur traits require regular care. If the dog lives inside the house, the undercoat will disappear naturally. It likes, and needs, to exercise, although it can be limited to a couple of daily walks. As long as it’s possible it is convenient to take it to place where it enjoys water so it feels happy.

It seems that the Terranova was created for water, since it has long and webbed feet and impermeable fur. That is why we can easily see them swimming and in the beaches.