How long do Newfoundlands live?

The median lifespan of the Newfoundland is 11.0 years, based on the 2024 McMillan et al. study of 584,734 UK dogs.

Is the Newfoundland a healthy breed?

On the Breed Health Score the Newfoundland scores 54 out of 100 (grade C), compared with an average of 71 across 155 breeds.

54/ 100

Newfoundland Grade C

Q: What health problems do Newfoundlands have?

Commonly reported conditions in the Newfoundland include Subvalvular aortic stenosis, Hip dysplasia, Elbow dysplasia, Cystinuria, Dilated cardiomyopathy.

Median lifespani 11.0 yr · giant · 45-70 kg

⇆ Compare Newfoundland

The Newfoundland is a giant breed with a median lifespan of 11.0 years, which places it among the shortest-lived third of the 155 breeds we rank for longevity. Commonly reported health conditions include Subvalvular aortic stenosis, Hip dysplasia, Elbow dysplasia, Cystinuria. Its overall Breed Health Score is 54/100 (grade C), against an average of 71/100 across all breeds.

Score breakdown

Longevityi 65%

Conformationi 20%

Hereditary burdeni 15%

Higher is healthier. See methodology.

Common & hereditary conditions

Subvalvular aortic stenosis Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Cystinuria Dilated cardiomyopathy

Red marks a life-threatening or major-welfare condition. Click a condition to see which breeds it affects. This list reflects commonly reported conditions, so better-studied breeds may show more; hereditary burden is the lightest-weighted part of the score. Source: RVC VetCompass / AKC / PDSA (indicative).

Thinking of a Newfoundland? A breed's health profile affects insurance cost. Comparing pet insurance early, before any conditions become pre-existing, usually gets the best cover.

Compare with similar-size breeds

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Data & citation. Median lifespan: McMillan, K.M. et al. (2024) "Longevity of companion dog breeds", Scientific Reports (584,734 UK dogs). Data CC-BY 4.0. Source. Machine-readable: developer API. These are independent estimates for comparing breeds, not veterinary advice. Photo: Catherine Leclert via Pexels.