What is the origin of the Newfoundland dog breed?

There are many conflicting stories as to the origin of the Newfoundland - some say he descended from the Great Pyrenees or a "French hound" - but nearly all agree that he originated in Newfoundland and his ancestors were brought there by fisherman from the European continent. In Newfoundland he was used as a working dog to pull nets for the fishermen and to haul wood from the forest. He also did heavy labor, such as powering the blacksmith's bellows.