Named for the Canadian province where they originated, Newfoundlands are as intelligent as they are striking. Often referred to as “lifeguard dogs,” the Newfoundland’s webbed feet, rudder-like tail, and water-resistant coat make it a natural swimmer. The black beauties seem to instinctively know when people are in danger of drowning.

History is filled of tales of Newfoundlands saving man from going under by using their large mouths to tow people to shore. During the 1800s, Newfoundlands were considered “required lifesaving equipment” in England.

The lifeguard dog moniker of the Newfoundland may not be suitable; for the centuries of service of saving swimmers, “hero dog” may be more apropos. One such example is Boo.

As the fourteen-month old one-hundred-ten-pound Boo zoomed along the Yuba River banks, eighty miles north of Sacramento, on July 27, 1995, a man named Link Hill looked doomed, having become caught in the current and swept down the river. Boo’s owner, Lillian McDermott, felt helpless, but Boo knew exactly what to do. Without any prompting, he sprang into action, charged into the current, grabbed Link’s clothing with his mouth, and dragged him back to shore.

For his heroism, Boo was featured on Unsolved Mysteries and the Newfoundland Club of America awarded him a medal. At his awards ceremony, Boo sniffed the plaque bearing his name, but he was more interested in the treats given to him.

Are any of you the proud owner of Newfoundlands and have any stories of their heroism?

Boo

SOURCES

: • Unsolved Mysteries