The Newfoundland Dog has been one of the most memorable doggie human companion in history. From Nana of Peter Pan to Lord Byron's dearly loved Boatswain, the Newfoundland has made its mark on people's lives.  Boatswain was a big dog born on the Newfoundland island itself. He was purchased by the great poet Lord Bryon and became his closest companion. He was large, loyal, and loving! In 1808, Big Boatswain tragically died from a case of rabies. When Boatswain contracted the disease, Byron reportedly nursed him without any fear of becoming bitten and infected. Bryon wrote a poem that is inscribed on Boatswain's tomb, famously known as "Epitaph to a Dog".

The Newfoundland Dog is the strongest swimmer in the world.  Couple that with it's natural protective instinct, and you have the perfect Life Guard. ​The Newfoundland has a stiff, oily outer coat of moderate length and a fleecy undercoat to adapt to the harsh climate of its home island. The oil repels water. A Newfoundland can swim for hours, yet remain completely dry and warm at the skin. The breed has completely webbed feet and swims with a breast stroke instead of a dog paddle. Both the Canadian Coast Guard and the Italian Coast Guard currently use the Newfoundland for Water Rescue.  In one certain trial, a male newfoundland dog towed 10 people to shore at once!! There are many instances in history where a Newfoundland Dog has saved human lives during a water disaster.