Newfoundland: feeding, nutrition and health

Feeding a Newfoundland: what matters

For the Newfoundland, the priorities are slow puppy growth and, from adulthood on, weight control given the breed's naturally low activity level. A giant breed food with a controlled calcium to phosphorus ratio protects growing joints, and the energy density shouldn't be any higher than it needs to be.

This breed also requires planning around cystinuria, an inherited disorder that causes cystine crystals and stones to form in the urine of some dogs. A slightly lower protein level, particularly of the amino acid methionine, a precursor of cystine, along with high water intake are the basic preventive steps, guided by your vet for dogs with a confirmed genetic risk or a clinical diagnosis.

An adult weighing 60 kg (132 lb) with low activity needs roughly 1,700 to 2,100 kcal a day. Split meals into 2 to 3 portions because of bloat risk, and go easy on treats, since this laid back breed puts on weight from them easily. A neutered or spayed dog needs a further 15 to 20% less energy, so reassess the portion after the procedure.

What to watch for

• Cystinuria: for dogs with a confirmed predisposition, discuss adjusting protein levels and water intake with your vet.
• Low activity means low energy needs; the portion shouldn't be set by size alone.
• Body condition: the thick coat hides weight gain easily, so check by feeling the ribs regularly.
• Feeding around exercise: rest for an hour before and after meals given the bloat risk.

Practical feeding tips

• Keep fresh water available at all times; diluting the urine is a key part of preventing cystinuria.
• Split the daily portion into 2 to 3 meals fed at set times.
• Use a giant breed food formulated for slow growth until 18 to 20 months old.
• Reduce the portion by 15 to 20% after neutering or spaying, the risk of weight gain is high.
• Feed during the cooler parts of the day in summer, since the thick coat makes heat harder to tolerate.

Feeding schedule by age

Health risks that diet affects

Cystinuria

An inherited defect in how the kidneys reabsorb cystine, leading to cystine urinary stones, the breed's single most distinctive nutritional issue. Dietary management includes a slightly reduced protein level, plenty of water to dilute the urine, and, for affected dogs, a special diet prescribed by a vet, sometimes alongside urine alkalization.

Subaortic stenosis (SAS)

A congenital heart defect with a higher incidence in this breed. Diet has no direct effect on it, but keeping a lean body condition reduces strain on the heart, and quality protein sources support overall health.

Hip dysplasia

An inherited joint condition made worse by fast growth and puppy weight gain. A giant breed food with controlled energy and calcium is the basic prevention.

Bloat and gastric torsion (GDV)

A deep chest puts the Newfoundland among the higher risk breeds for stomach torsion. Feeding 2 to 3 meals a day instead of one large one and resting after meals both reduce the risk.

Obesity

Low natural activity combined with a large body makes weight gain easy, especially after neutering or spaying. Extra weight further strains the joints and heart, a particular concern in a breed already prone to heart defects.

Temperament and exercise

The Newfoundland is an even tempered, patient companion with low to moderate need for intense exercise, it's happier swimming or doing calm work than playing sports. That low energy expenditure means a real risk of weight gain without regular portion control.

The dense, water resistant coat holds in heat extremely well, which raises this breed's risk of overheating in summer. That has an indirect effect on feeding too; in warm months it's best to feed during the cooler parts of the day.

Puppies grow slowly but reach a high final body weight, not finishing skeletal growth until around 18 to 20 months. Controlling energy and calcium during this period is essential for healthy joints that will carry a heavy adult body.

Coat: Long, dense, water resistant double coat built for swimming. Colors include black, brown, or black and white (the Landseer pattern).