I'm so sorry to hear this, PapaDave. There is no other dog like a Newf, I swear. I grew up with other dogs, I love dogs, all dogs (OK well most lol) but there is nothing that compares to the love of a Newf.
This past week my Cooper boy and I made daily therapy visits to Newtown CT, which is close by to us, and Coop just has this way of making people feel a little better, a look, a lick, a lean, a snuggle, a full body bear hug or a mobbing by a bunch of kids all at once. Truly amazing dogs.
Do you think you'll consider another Newf, someday?