Longevity
Life expectancy
The life expectancy of the Newfoundland is generally between 8 and 10 years, which is consistent with its very large size. Well-managed growth, controlled weight, suitable activity and regular veterinary follow-up can help preserve its quality of life for longer.
Constitution
Is this a robust breed?
The Newfoundland has an overall solid constitution, with good general resistance when it comes from a seriously monitored line and is maintained with rigor. Its robustness does not exempt it from monitoring the joints, the heart and the weight, three important points in this giant breed.
Things to watch for
What to look out for
Prevention is essential in the Newfoundland, especially during growth when excessive exertion must be avoided. Particular attention must be paid to gait, exercise tolerance, abnormal digestive signs, the condition of the ears after swimming, and any gradual weight gain.
Hip dysplasia: Common orthopedic condition in large dogs that can lead to pain, lameness, and long-term osteoarthritis.
Elbow dysplasia: Abnormal development of the elbow joint that can limit mobility and promote early wear.
Subvalvular aortic stenosis: Congenital heart disease to be carefully screened for in the breed, which can reduce exercise tolerance.
Gastric torsion: Serious digestive emergency favored in large deep-chested dogs, requiring immediate care.
Cataract: Eye condition that can gradually impair vision depending on severity and progression.
Otitis: The ears must be monitored, especially after swimming, as moisture promotes infections of the ear canal.
Climate
Tolerance to cold and heat
The Newfoundland tolerates cold very well thanks to its dense, waterproof double coat, but it copes much less well with high heat. In summer, outings must be arranged during the cooler hours, with shade, water available at all times and limiting intense exertion.
Weight
Prone to weight gain
Weight control is essential in the Newfoundland, because any excess weight increases the load on the joints and can worsen several health problems. A ration adjusted to age, activity and body condition, combined with regular but moderate exercise, helps keep it in good condition.
Everyday care
Good habits to keep your pet healthy
- Maintain a stable weight and monitor gait.
- Keep vaccinations, deworming and identification up to date.
- Consult promptly in case of lameness, vomiting or lethargy.
Vaccination
Newfoundland vaccinations: schedule
Which vaccines does a Newfoundland need? Like all dogs, Newfoundlands should receive their core vaccines from 8 weeks of age: CHPPi (core vaccine) and Leptospirosis. Puppies receive their initial Newfoundland vaccinations in several shots spaced 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year. Depending on their lifestyle (hunting, hiking, boarding, travel, region), your veterinarian may add vaccines against Rabies, Kennel cough, Piroplasmosis, Lyme disease and Leishmaniasis.
| Vaccine | Primary vaccination | First booster | Then | For whom? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
CHPPi (core vaccine)Core Distemper, Rubarth hepatitis, parvovirosis and parainfluenza | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All animals |
LeptospirosisCore Leptospirosis (bacterium transmitted by rodent urine and stagnant water) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | All animals |
RabiesDepending on lifestyle Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, categorized dogs, most boarding kennels and shows |
Kennel coughDepending on lifestyle Bordetella bronchiseptica and parainfluenza | 8 weeks | 1 year | every year | Dogs attending boarding kennels, daycares, dog clubs and shows |
PiroplasmosisDepending on lifestyle Tick-borne babesiosis | 5 months · 6 months | 1 year | every year | Hunting dogs, dogs living in rural or wooded areas, dogs highly exposed to ticks |
Lyme diseaseDepending on lifestyle Tick-borne borreliosis | 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | Hiking dogs, hunting dogs, forest areas of the East and the Center |
LeishmaniasisDepending on lifestyle Leishmaniasis transmitted by sandflies | 6 months | 1 year and 6 months | every year | Dogs living or staying in the South of France, Corsica and the Mediterranean basin |
Adult Newfoundland booster shots are given annually for leptospirosis and rabies. For distemper, hepatitis, and parvovirus, a booster every three years is often enough after the first booster. Your veterinarian will tailor the schedule to your dog's actual risk.
Which boosters does your Newfoundland need?
Enter your companion's age to see which vaccines are due now and when the next boosters are needed.
Choosing well
Adopting a healthy Newfoundland
Screening of the hips, elbows and heart is particularly relevant in this breed. Depending on the lines and the breeding context, attention to cystinuria may also be justified. Before adoption, it is better to favor a breeder able to document the health examinations carried out on the breeding dogs.
This information is for guidance only and doesn't replace advice from a veterinarian. If you have any concerns about your pet's health, consult a professional.
