Extraordinary Adventures of the Newfoundland Dog

Newfoundland dogs! Go coast-to-coast to uncover the history and lore behind one of Canada's most famous dog breeds. Stick around after the Newfies for a bonus story about Labrador Retrievers!

#newfoundlanddog #canadianhistory #documentary #dog

The Defence of Hong Kong:
Our attempt to keep this episode focused on Newfoundland dogs (like Sergeant Gander) meant leaving out much about Hong Kong, a significant battle in WWII which began so soon after Pearl Harbour that it's often overshadowed and overlooked.

First, we would like to note a correction: technically, the attack on Hong Kong did not take place an entire day after Pearl Harbor, but 6 hours later (the international date line is the cause for this common confusion).

The Royal Rifles of Canada and the Winnipeg Grenadiers sailed from Vancouver to the British Crown Colony of Hong Kong in late October, 1941, and while the invasion in early December didn't come as a complete surprise, there had been a feeling of optimism—life in the colony had continued as usual in the weeks leading up to the attack. The British commander was offered an opportunity to surrender prior to the attack, but sent his response just 15 minutes later. A one-word answer: "no." The British believed there would be no battle, and it was a mistake that would cost the Canadians dearly.

The Canadian battalions sent to battle were largely inexperienced, but fought bravely, and there were numerous acts of heroism like that of Gander the dog. Sergeant-Major John Osborn similarly threw himself on a grenade that could not be returned at the enemy, smothering the explosion and saving the lives of nearby soldiers.

Sgt. Gander was posthumously awarded the Dickin Medal for Gallantry (essentially the Victoria Cross for animals) on Oct. 27, 2000. The ceremony was attended by 20 surviving members of Gander’s regiment. In 2015, the commemorative statues were unveiled in Gander, and members of the Royal Rifles attended once more.

Those explorers we mentioned:
David Thompson and Alexander Mackenzie did not make their way through the Canadian wilderness alone. They traveled in parties, and were led by Indigenous guides. When Mackenzie crossed North America, his party of voyageurs and guides included the Dene chief Awgeenah. Awgeenah (who is also known as Mistapoose and Nestabeck) guided Europeans to the coast more than once. Before travelling with Mackenzie, Awgeenah led Matonabbee and Samuel Hearne along the Coppermine River to the Arctic Ocean.

Landseer:
English artist Sir Edwin Landseer was particularly fond of painting animals in service to people. He's best known for his paintings of horses, dogs and stags, and for the lion sculptures in Trafalgar Square. His paintings of black and white Newfoundland dogs, especially those depicted as water rescue dogs, were among his most popular—so much so, that the black and white variety of Newfoundlands became known as Landseers.

In the Dominion of Newfoundland, only black or black and white Newfoundlands were considered proper members of the breed.

S.S. Ethie:
There may be more fiction than truth to aspects of this tale. The story as we describe it was broadcast around the world at the time, and has been repeated ever since. But, some sources suggest it may have been another breed, and it may not have brought a rope to (or from) the ship. The strange thing is, a few years earlier, a Newfoundland dog performed this exact feat with ANOTHER shipwreck in Kent, England. You can read about dozens of other heroes in Robert Parsons' book 'The Newfoundland Dog: True Stories of Courage, Loyalty, and Friendship.'

Lewis & Clark:
Lewis & Clark crossed the continent years after Alexander Mackenzie, and they ALSO had a Newfoundland dog with them, named Seaman. He was a crucial part of their voyage, retrieving meals and standing guard. The pair were inspired to purchase their dog by Mackenzie.

Place names:
For storytelling purposes, we occasionally refer to locations from a contemporary perspective. We will always side with simplicity, flow, and clarity in order to make the episodes as engaging as possible.

00:00 S.S. Ethie Shipwreck
01:33 Origins
03:07 Explorers
04:09 Sgt. Gander
06:17 Bonus Story: Labrador Retrievers

[Canadiana]

A special thank you to Rudder, Keil, and Beckett for starring in the episode! Thanks to Sasha Latimer at Aberforth Newfoundlands for allowing us to film her beautiful dogs!

Stay to the end to hear the story of ANOTHER famous dog breed! The Defence of Hong Kong deserves much more than the time we could give it in the episode, please check the description for more info and a link to an external source which covers that tragic day.

Be sure to check out all our latest episodes—this season, we've covered everything from Pirates on Canada's East Coast (we reveal a connection to two of Canada's largest banks), spies in Ottawa, werewolves, lumberjacks and more! Don't forget to click the bell to be notified of new releases because there are many more episodes on the way!

Thank you for your patience!

[derrickduister]

I came here to Learn, Not to cry! Such amazing dogs.

[Benjiefrenzy]

The Newfoundland, Labrador, and Nova Scotia duck tolling retrievers are all beautiful dogs. It's amazing how the East Coast can claim 3 beautiful breeds.

[danq.]

Such a great breed. Friends of my family had one named Morgan and he was as friendly as the people of Newfoundland proper.

[perniciouschattel]

As a Canadian and the proud owner of both a Newfoundland (8 mos old and 110lbs - he's going to be a monster) and a Labrador, I loved this video. Both my guys are the sweetest guys, although the Newf is the most stubborn and confident dog we've ever owned, and the Lab completely lacks any chill whatsoever.

[timothyschollux]

HERO dogs! What an amazing part of Canadian history!

[kevinzhu]

You guys are making informative and high-quality content that is becoming rare on youtube, thanks for sharing the beauty of Canadian history

[jaimefewer]

As a proud Newfoundland'er I thank you for pronouncing it the correct way, great video .

[tinsley]

I love both Newfoundland and Labrador breeds! I couldn't stop smiling until Gander's story, then I wanted to cry. As interesting as all the topics you've touched on so far--I think this is my favourite. Wish it had been a bit longer.

[Styphon]

My mother's ancestors were coming over from Ireland when their ship went down near Nova Scotia, and a similar rescue story exists about a dog helping the crew & passengers get to shore.

[franceshendry]

Love, love, love your videos. Thank you!

[shelleyhender]

As a Newfoundlander from Gander ~ I am grateful you visited our beautiful province and discovered the incredible personalities of our Newfoundland Pups!  We are often omitted or forget about on this glorious island!

As always, you provide the most interesting stories. Who knew Thompson and the others chose these beautiful animals to assist them in their travels. I certainly understand why, as these dogs have have such delightful, dedicated, and warm personalities…great for keeping one company.

As an animal rescuer, without a doubt, the heroic deed of Gander in the war was certainly my favourite tale you shared today!

Thank you for another fascinating, insightful video!

Cheers🇨🇦☺🇨🇦

P.S. Happy Easter!

[robswystun]

Love the animation. Also, Gander's story had me close to tears.

[Flavia-]

Thank you for your amazing content as always.

[daphneporter]

Always love these videos. Thank you so much for all your work.

[kerrbear]

It should be noted Newfoundland did not join Canada until 1949. So tech this is Newfoundland history, not Canadian. Newfoundland history is incredible and storied!

[TheBigheadValley]

First time here and what’s great story about Gander. My Grandad fought at the Battle of Hong Kong and this story resonates with me.

[sayhineil]

I come back to watch this every now and then. CHILLS Everytime. Love newfies ❤

[treebush]

really crazy you guys dont have more subs

[heys]

Great video! I’m a Newfoundlander and have a Cape Shore Water Dog. I was really hoping her breed would get a shout out! They’re apparently descended from St. John’s water dogs, and are still bred by two breeders in branch Branch (as far as I know! DYOR). Pretty common on the island but easily mistakable for labs.

Every trait you describe here about Newfoundlands and St Johns water dogs fits my dog perfectly. Such great breeds. Loyal, intelligent, and an insatiable desire to fetch things in water. Loved to hear where she came from, thanks!