They can be annoying, but I can't imagine living without one. Currently we have two.
We've owned Newfs since we've been married, on our third now. First was here pre-kids, dog was 2 when son was born, about 4 1/2 when d arrived 2 plus years later. As such, he was "our" (meaning mine and the wife's) dog.
He was great with the kids; my son was attentive but indifferent, my daughter all over him. S was 9, D 6 when he passed.
Second Newf came within six months, kids were an intergral part of the acqusition process, including the naming. He was a real family dog; I called him a "Cling-on", as he could not get enough of family contact. No favorites, he would drool on all of us equally. He passed after 9 years, son now 18, d 15.
Third Newf was found within three months. While wife and I had the final choice, D had her nose deep in the process. Rode home in her lap. Still in her lap now at 130 plus pounds. While she and I co-trained him, he is clearly her raison d'etre. He tolerates the rest of us, will lift his head when we come home, seek us out if we're the only game in town. Other than that, we're a source of food. Dog hears her car a mile away, greets her with true doggie devotion when she comes home; pines and is miserable when she leaves.
Generally makes the rest of us feel like chopped liver.
D was an animal care major, and schemed with my wife to override my castle mastery by adopting her training dog from school, a retired racing greyhound (he's actually tan). He initially was a very loving addition, greeting/responding/obeying all of us equally, but each day picks up more of the Newf's behavior, and is slowing relagating the rest of us to second class citizenship.
Just a matter of time before we become invisible.
When she leaves, and these guys cross the Rainbow Bridge, D will have no influence on selection, training or visitation rights on the next one.
I deal with the hair, poop, vet and food costs. I at least want the devotion.
Call me selfish.
