There are many stories about the origin of the Newfoundland. The breed may be a descendant of nomadic Indian dogs, or of Viking "bear dogs". Many believe the Newfoundland originated from crosses between Tibetan Mastiffs brought to Canada by British or European fisherman and local dogs, early in the 1700's. In any case, the resulting breed found a niche aiding fisherman off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada.
