Megan,
Congratulations on your new puppy. As you've just discovered, one of the problems with a non-purebred is you can have a mixture that garners contradictory advice. However, all puppies need exercise, even big ones. Don't get him jumping over obstacles or jumping up on a seat and then down again -- this puts a lot of stress on the joints. Another way of protecting his joints is to keep the playing to grass or dirt. Keep him off concrete and other hard services, especially when running. Again, this stresses the joints.
See if you can get access to a Newfie breeder. The breeder won't be happy you didn't get a purebred (from him/her), but should be willing to tell you what exercise a Newfie needs.
Most important of all, of course, is to talk with your vet. Your mix may end up a small dog, in which case you are dealing more with the border collie. Your vet can give you an idea of how big the puppy may grow. It is the large size that presents the joint problems, not that it is a Newfoundland. If it only grew to 21" and 55 pounds, you wouldn't have a problem. Your vet is always your best bet. She may refer you to an expert in Newfoundlands. She also may want to see your puppy more often to monitor its growth -- there is a problem with too rapid growth in large-breed puppies. She may even tell you to relax and enjoy your dog -- crossbreeds and mutts can be healthier than purebreds.
Whatever you decide, enjoy this puppy you rescued!
kjd
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11-01-2009, 08:21 PM
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