Newfoundland Dogs / Lesson Plan

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Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will have learned about Newfoundland dogs, their characteristics, and their history.

Materials and Prep

  • Internet access
  • Pen and paper

Before starting the lesson, make sure you have a basic understanding of dog breeds and their characteristics.

Activities

  • Research: Use the internet to find information about Newfoundland dogs. Write down at least five interesting facts about them.
  • Draw or Paint: Create a picture of a Newfoundland dog. Pay attention to their distinct features such as their large size, webbed feet, and thick coat.
  • Storytelling: Imagine you are a Newfoundland dog. Write a short story or a diary entry describing a day in your life. Include details about your activities, interactions, and feelings.
  • Role Play: Pretend to be a Newfoundland dog and act out different scenarios. For example, demonstrate how a Newfoundland dog might rescue someone from drowning or how they might interact with children.

Talking Points

  • Newfoundland dogs are known for their large size and strength. They can weigh up to 150 pounds and are excellent swimmers.
  • They have a thick, water-resistant double coat that helps them stay warm in cold water.
  • Newfoundland dogs have webbed feet, which make them great swimmers. They were originally bred for water rescue and were used to save people from drowning.
  • These dogs are known for their gentle and calm temperament. They are often referred to as "gentle giants."
  • Newfoundland dogs are great with children and are often considered to be excellent family pets.
  • They are very intelligent and trainable, which makes them suitable for various tasks such as therapy work, water rescue, and obedience competitions.
  • Newfoundland dogs have a lifespan of around 8-10 years.
  • They require regular grooming to maintain their coat and prevent matting.
  • The breed originated in Newfoundland, Canada, where they were used by fishermen to pull nets and carts, as well as to assist in water rescues.
  • In popular culture, Newfoundland dogs have been featured in various movies and books, including the famous story of "Nana" in Peter Pan.