newfoundland dog health problems

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Q: Wondering about getting a mixed Newf breed dog from a shelter—Should I be concerned about health problems?
So we were going to get a purebreed Newfoundland dog from a breeder. I have done a lot of research about the breed and think they are just wonderful. After pondering it for months and adding up the cost of the puppy and the fencing, vet bills etc. we thought that it may be too much for us right now and we should save up more so that we make sure we always have extra savings in case we needed it for the dog or anything else. I now came across a Newf/retriever mix in a shelter in Canada–the puppies are 8 weeks old. Since large breed dogs have certain health problems –such as heart and hip –it was important that we went to a reputable breeder if we got one because they test the parents and puppies ..so if we get a mix like that do you think that we may wind up with a lot of health problems down the road because who knows where the Newf parent was from –could have been a backyard breeder and had unhealthy dogs? Any comments or thoughts would be greatly appreciated- Thanks
Also the shelter worker said that they were just assuming the breed–how can i find out how accurate they are—we have 3 kids what if the dog is really a rottweiler mix?

A: Rescue dogs in shelters are rarely from good breedings. This was likely an “oops” breeding from a backyard breeder.

Yes, it’s completely possible that the dogs will grow into problems that are common in Newfs & Retrievers. It’s highly unlikely that either of the parents were breeding quality.

But, you can help avoid them by keeping the dog at a healthy weight (almost skinny), feeding a top quality food, and exercising frequently. On top of that, joint supplements and heart supplements can reduce the risk.

I’d also look into health insurance.

As far as the money situation, this is a big concern. I wouldn’t own a large dog without some sort of fence in place. At least by the time the dog is 5-6 months old. It’s a great deal for the pups, but will it be a problem if it comes home and two weeks later gets sick? Or injured?

I don’t have a great answer. I’m pro adopting dogs 100%. But yes, one of my great fears of adopting a larger rescue dog would be the health concerns long-term. If it were me, and finances were ok, I’d probably go with the pup in the pound. Even if the puppy has only 5 great years with me, it’s better to have had him and enjoyed him than to have not had that chance.

GL in whatever you decide.

Added: You could pay for a DNA test, but in a puppy, breed is not always an indicator of temperament or aggression. Even if the dog were part Rott, if you keep him healthy and properly train and socialize him, temperament should not be an issue.

And I wanted to add that Hip Dysplasia cannot usually be tested for in 8 week old puppies. It usually doesn’t even start to appear, except in horrible cases, until closer to 18 months. And most shelters only do the most basic health care. Meaning spay/neuter and general vaccinations. They aren’t testing for congenital illnesses or problems that are not outwardly apparent.

Q: newfoundland dog becoming very lazy and not willing to exercise much. why?
He likes to go out for walks but refuses to walk fast or jog with me. he refuses to play fetch and acts very easygoing and relaxed all the time. in the house also he would sit in one place for hours and walk only little bit. I want his heart to get more activity so that he does not get any diseases or health problems.

He is not old. Just 4 years old.

A: try him in a swimming pool sounds silly but he will exercise aswell and its also good for his joints

Q: my dog’s life is coming to an end. how can i deal with this pain and sadness?
my newfoundland dog turns 10 years old tomorrow and it will be his last birthday. he has lot of health problems already and needs lot of support and excessive care already. he can’t climb stairs or stand for longer than 10 minutes at a time.

as his life is coming to an end, it is giving me more and more pain. i cannot imagine handling his loss. how do i deal with it in his final days?

A: Be with him and enjoy the time you have left with him. And be with him when its time to go no reason to go though it alone.
Remember that you are releaving him of his pain he will thank you for it.

Q: How do I safely introduce a new adult male Newfoundland to our adult male Border-collie ? mix?
We have a very beautiful , very wired male Border-collie mix, 2yrs old. He has been raised with a female Newfoundland, they both get along fine. My problem is, due to health problems we , come next month we will no longer have our Beautiful Girl. We will then be getting a male Newfoundland, 3 yrs of age, nuetered. My concern is introducing them, I’m wondering if keeping them separated for awhile will help ease the transition. I have never owned 2 male dogs, always male & female. My dogs have always lived in the house with us, as family members. I really want this to work out so that the 2 of them can live peacably together. Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!!

A: i’ve heard of letting the dogs meet on neutral ground works… but my dog only likes dogs on her territory…. weird i know but that’s my dog. and two male dogs will be fine together as long as there isn’t a female who is not spade.
if you had two males who weren’t neutered and female who wasn’t spade then you may have some problems, but you should be fine, and don’t force them to do anything they don’t want to do.

Q: Which giant breed dog is the best?
I am looking at getting a giant breed dog. Although I realize that they eat a lot and have a relatively large number of health problems I still really want one. I have narrowed it down to three and based on your experiences wonder which one you like best?

St. Bernard
Newfoundland
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
I have done extensive research on each of these breeds and know that each one would fit into my lifestyle, pocket book and my home. I guess I am just looking for some personal stories from someone who has owned one of these dogs as I have met only very few Newfoundlands and have never met a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog.

A: Saint Bernards are Great Dogs. As you can see I’m a big fan of them. The dogs, like you mentioned, do eat a lot and often drool afterwards. But don’t let that stop you! The Saint Bernard is happy to go for a walk or just sit at your feet. These AWESOME dogs live up to the age of 8 – 10 but with proper care they can live to be 12!!

Newfoundlands are very fluffy dogs and require lots of grooming, Be Aware! These are very peaceful dogs but some males can become aggressive towards others. Again this dog also drinks a lot of water and tends to drool afterwards. But although this is a big dog they only eat as much as a Golden Retriever. these big dogs live to be 9 -15 but the average is 10!!

Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are very beautiful and have very handsome makings. These big dogs like to eats heaps, but unlike the other two, these dogs do not drool.The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a people dog and love to be around family members. But be aware, puppy hood lasts 2 -3 years. These beautiful dogs live to be 10 -11 years but if looked after properly can live to be 12!!

Good Luck with your dog!
I personly LOVE saint bernards

This my Saint, Benny

Q: Did you ever see a dog headbutt another dog?
My friend has a few health problems and sometimes uses a walker. Her dog is 1/2 Border collie 1/2 Newfoundland (named Max). We were in her back yard yesterday when the neighbors dog came up behind her. Right away Max ran over and rammed his head into the other dog. The other dog turned and walked away. A second time a different strange dog came towards us when walking. Same thing, headbutt and the dog walks away. In both cases there were no growls, fighting or teeth shown. The other dog just got the message and walked away. She claims he did it once before. I was so impressed that Max got his message over in such a good way. Did you ever see a dog do this?

A: I’ve seen a bull terrier headbutt many things, but I always thought it was because she was a little slow. This could be a reason for doing it, though!

Q: How can I convince my parents to let me get a Newfoundland?
I just recently watched a video of a Newfoundland puppy, and fell in love! Its not there looks im in love with, its there personality.
My Mom and Dad told me I could get a puppy, and I want a Newfoundland. They havent said no because I havent asked them yet, but I know that when I do ask them they will say no because of the size.
I have researched the breed and know what I am getting myself into. I know how big the dog will get, I know the common health problems, I know how much care they are going to require, and I believe im ready. My parents will pay for the spaying/neutering of the dog, shots, check ups, emergency situations, etc etc. Also, if i do even go to college, I would either do online schooling, or find someplace that would allow a dog, so please dont lecture me about this. Im 14, if that matters.
Also, I know that they cost more to maintain because of there size.

A: i have a newfie pup 5 months old. this breed is the most work of all the dogs i have ever owned ! ( rottweiler’s doberman, great pyrenees, min schnauzer) don’t get me wrong now i love my pup to death but so far he’s cost $$$$ alot ! he has an allergist for allergies and now he has to see an orthopedic specialist because his front paws are growing too fast and pointing outward. we feed him Solid Gold puppy food (you have to feed them very good quality food) also are you willing to give up your sofa ? because if you get one its his ! no questions about it …. none of my other dogs took the sofa over. they are a beautiful dog and learn very fast. but costs are very high for everything they need. so if you have the $$ and time for one, well let me just say its like no other breed i have had. there special once you get one you will fall in love. but consider all the above first and don’t forget they love to swim so if you don’t live by the water you have to get a pool.
good luck

Q: dog dies in his sleep. how and why?
My newfoundland dog who was to turn 10 years old on sunday suddenly died in his sleep. He did have bad health but it was not that bad that he is not able to perform his daily activities or that he would require serious medical attention.

He walked normally (although his speed was slower compared to the past). he wagged his tail a lot too. He did have some vision problems and difficulty climbing stairs, but he never displayed any serious sign of pain or stress.

Then 2 days before turning 10 years old he dies in sleep. First i wondered he is sleeping a lot. But when i saw no sign of movement or breathing in him, i get very worried. I thought he fainted, had a seizure or became unconscious.

I took him to the vet and the vet declared, “brought dead”

A: Without a necropsy you will never know.

Most likely causes
Heart Attack
Blood Clot
Internal Bleed out (tumor rupture)

Any of the above are pretty fast and painless.
Also there is nothing you could have done about it.

Q: should i get a newfoundland?
i have done all my research on newfies in the last few years and i think i am ready to get one. i know they drool, shed and are very big dogs and i also know about all possible health problems, but i still think a newfie is perfect for me. i have met a few at dog shows etc and they are the most gorgeous looking dogs EVER….!!! so does anyone have one/ used to have one/ know somebody who has one? i want your opinions on life with a newf. is it worth getting one or will it be too much hard work? i also am worried about the short life span… let me no plz! and thank you!

A: Choosing a dog is a very personal decision, one that only you can decide on. We don’t know you, or your life style.

Q: Newfoundlands good pets or not?
I am thinking of getting a newfoundland and would like information from owners or experts about the dogs temperment, potential health problems and anything I should be aware of before purchasing one….. Thank you

A: I think you should contend with your blind lab puppy before getting into a Newfie. I love Newfs but they are always underfoot. I end up kicking Bess all the time. They can have severe health issues especially since there are very few quality breeders out there. Mine is a rescue and shouldn’t be alive and it may be getting closer for her. Her hips are so bad it is getting harder and harder for her to get up and that is very painful for me to watch. Her heart is better now than what it was when we first rescued her but she still can’t do too much.

And the loveable side – I can’t believe she hasn’t broken my ribs. When she wants pet she means it and throws her head at you. I love her to pieces and kept because no one else wanted to adopt a dying dog that was dog aggressive. She has been kicking for three years and is still a royal B*TCH with other fosters but we love her!!!

Q: What type of dogs should we get?
We are looking for a large dog, great with small children and suitable for the following climate:
Winter= Normally not much under 0(C) but feels much colder as we live on the coast,
Summer= low-mid 20’s (can rarely get up to 30)

We want 2, so either 2 of the same breed or 2 different ( we are planning on getting one first, train it, and then get a second maybe half a year to a year later?)

Breeds we have in mind: German Shepherd (very high on the list, as I grew up with sheps), Newfoundland, St.Bernard, Bernice Mountain dog (maybe crossed with the retriever as I heard that this got rid of some of their health problems?), Golden Retriever, Husky etc.

Your thoughts?
Thank you so much!

PS: exersise and maintenance is not really a problem; we both grew up with dogs and know what we are getting into!

A: german shepherd all the way. they are such loyal dogs, for the most part. i have a german shepherd myself, and she is everything i could ever ask for in a dog.
It seems that a german shepherd always needs a job, even if it is sitting in the living room, staring out the window guarding the house for hours and hours, lol.
good luck in finding the perfect dog!

Q: What is the best way to find a good reputable breeder?
My family and I want to get a dog. Either a Great Dane, St.Bernard or Newfoundland. But we want to get one from a good breeder that does all of the health and genetic testing so basically not from a backyard breeder. How would I go about doing this? I have researched all of the breeds. I just need to know if there is a site I should go to where they would have good breeders registered. I really don’t want to get a dog who is going to have health problems due to bad breeding so it would be nice if someone could help me. Thank you so much

A: You can find reputable breeders by asking for referrals from your veterinarian or trusted friends, by contacting local breed clubs, or visiting professional dog shows. Remember, a reputable breeder will never sell her dogs through a pet store or in any other way that does not allow her to thoroughly meet with and interview you to ensure that the puppy is a good match for your family and that you will provide a responsible lifelong home.

ETA: Look for Breeders here (AMERICA) -

http://www.gdca.org/
http://www.ncanewfs.org/index.shtml

http://www.saintbernardclub.org/

Q: Should you neuter a purebred dog?
We are getting going to get a Newfoundland puppy soon and we wonder if we should neuter it. We had a cat once who died as a result of the procedure. Our other dogs, both mutts, are neutered, however. What are the pros/cons of neutering? We neutered our other boys because we heard that they would have less aggressive temperments (we live in the middle of nowhere, with no other dogs around, and a fully fenced yard, so unwanted breeding isn’t a problem), but now my mother is afraid due to what happened to our cat. She is excellent with dogs– is aggression in unneutered males a huge problem? Any other health improvements with neutering versus non-neutering? How common is death as a result of the procedure?

A: Get him neutered. I had my male yorkie neutered and he was only 2 pounds.
An un-neutered dog is much more likely to mark up your house (urinate).
It is generally a pretty safe procedure.

(per the previous responders answer – yes, animals can die from the procedure, it is not because you live in the middle of nowhere, but again, generally pretty safe, deaths are rare.

Q: Newfie skin problem. What do we do?
My family has a four year old Newfoundland. We have had him since he was a puppy. Over the years, his skin/coat has caused problems for the poor guy. He would scratch constantly and produce “hot spots” on his skin. His fur would fall out rapidly and in huge chunks. This problem is now on and off. Sometimes he is the happiest guy around and others he is miserable; he squeals and scratches all day. It is not fleas. We have taken him to the vet numerous times and tried steroid shots many times. Yes, they do work but not for the long term. They also shorten his life span. Recently, we have given him some pills prescribed by the local vet. They have really helped and he is doing a lot better. We also feed him the natural Taste of the Wild dog food. He seems to be doing well, but does anyone have any more suggestions that might improve his skin and coat health in the long run? We would really appreciate it. Thanks.

A: I feel for you, i also have a newfie that had skin issues and we have found that when we put him on a grain free diet (also taste of the wild) and added a supplement NuVet Plus (bought online) he improved 100 %. when he was on other foods the poor thing would just scratch all day and bite at himself he had lost most of his hair too.
good luck

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