The purchase price of a Newfoundland dog from a breeder could cost between $500-$2500 or more. For those of you interested in learning more about this beautiful breed; the monthly costs and the estimated lifetime cost of bringing one home, continue reading.
Characteristics of a Newfoundland
Adult weight: 100 – 150 lbs.
Adult height: 26 – 28 in.
Origin – Island of Newfoundland or modern-day Canada
Life expectancy: 8 – 12 years
Newfoundlands, also known as Newfs or Newfies, are a powerful working dog breed. They’re considered the number one rescue dog all over the world and are strong enough swimmers to save grown men from drowning. Newfoundlands are among the world’s biggest dog breeds. But despite their enormous size, they are known as ‘Gentle Giants’ due to their calm and docile personality. They even have a reputation for being great ‘nanny dogs’ for kids.
Their coats are coarse and flat and come in black, brown, grey, and white. Newfoundlands are adventurous dogs, happy to explore on land or in the water. This breed can excel in dog sports and needs regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
What is the Price of a Newfoundland?
You may think that because of the size of this dog, the cost to bring one home would also be large. Depending on how you decide to get your Newfoundland, that may not always be the case. Let’s have a look! According to Rover and the OVMA, here are the average costs of puppy ownership in Canada.
Adoption or Buying: $300 – $2500
The average cost of buying a Newfoundland from a breeder is about $500-$2500 and can depend on the lineage, socialization and training, age, coat color, breeder’s reputation, and location. These dogs are known to have difficulties during pregnancy, making them harder to breed and increasing the price. Champion bloodlines or show-quality dogs may cost you more.
There is another way you can get a Newfoundland – adopting from a rescue shelter. There are various shelters where lost and abandoned dogs are maintained. It’s not guaranteed you’ll find a Newfoundland at your local shelter, but you can always call or visit a few facilities. Adoption fees typically cover the costs incurred for caring for the pet before adoption and could be around $300-$400. If you adopt an adult dog, there is a possibility that the adoption fee will be lower. If you do decide to adopt your Newfoundland, check out our dog adoption checklist as you prepare to bring home your new pup!
Monthly Costs for a Newfoundland Puppy
Diets: $100-$120
Given the size of these dogs, they eat about 4-5 cups of food per day. It is recommended that you feed them high-quality food and a nutrient-rich diet. You can expect to spend about $100-$120 per month on food, including the cost of dog treats. Be careful not to overfeed them, Newfoundlands are prone to becoming overweight.
Grooming: $50-$100
Newfoundlands have a thick coat so it's important to brush them several times a week to help maintain it, especially during shedding season. Teeth brushing, ear cleaning, and nail clipping are needed regularly. If you are an experienced dog owner then you may choose to groom at home, otherwise, a professional groomer is recommended. One trip may cost you between $50-$100.
Medical Costs: $100-$300
Initially, you should take your Newfie to a vet for routine check-ups to help ensure overall good health. Depending on the vet, it may cost $100-$300 per visit.
One-Time Costs for a Newfoundland
Initial Costs: $500-$900
Some initial items you would need are a dog crate, leashes and collars, food and water bowls, poop bags, poop scooper, dog toys, and a puppy first aid kit. These could cost you around $400-$500. Neutering or spaying your puppy is also highly recommended. Depending on the facility you choose for the procedure, you may want to add an additional $150-$400, to your initial budget.
Microchipping: $60-$80
Microchips help to identify your dog in case it gets lost. On average, the cost of implantation along with registration will be in the range of $60-$80.
Vaccines: $100-$150
If you’re getting your dog from a reputable breeder, the initial vaccines would likely be taken care of. A pack of basic core vaccines that may protect your dog against hepatitis, parvovirus, and rabies can cost you $100-$150. Some lifestyle vaccines are optional and include doses for Leptospirosis, Lyme disease, and parainfluenza. These could cost you $25-$30 per dose. Booster doses are needed as the dog ages.
Miscellaneous: $100-$150
There could be some day-to-day expenses like dog walking, dog sitting, park visits, vacations, etc. You should keep around $100-$150 per year aside for these expenses.
Lifetime Newfoundland Cost
A big dog like a Newfoundland, could cost between $18,000-$25,000 depending upon the choices you make for their food, bed, care, etc. This estimate does not include expenses related to unexpected accidents or illnesses. So while budgeting, you will want to consider those potential expenses too.
Conclusion
‘The Newfies’ or ‘The Gentle Giants’ can be a great addition to your family. The breed is adorable, loving, energetic, and kind. Regardless of the potential costs associated with owning a Newfie across their lifetime, you’ll have a loyal companion by your side.
Happy parenting to you and lots of love to your pup or your pup-to-be!
“How Much Does it Cost to be a Dog Parent?” Rover, https://www.rover.com/ca/blog/cost-of-dog-parenthood, n.d.
“Annual Cost of Owning a Puppy,” OVMA, https://www.ovma.org/assets/1/6/CostOfCare%20PuppyDog%202022.pdf, n.d.
