Newfoundland Stud Dog: SAS Cardiac Testing, Cystinuria DNA, and What to Look For

The Newfoundland is one of the most gentle and devoted breeds ever created. Originally developed as a working water dog for fishermen, the Newfoundland is famous for its swimming ability, water rescue instinct, and extraordinarily sweet temperament with children.

Health Testing Requirements

Cardiac Evaluation — Cardiologist Required (Most Important)

Subaortic Stenosis (SAS) is the most significant heritable health condition in Newfoundlands. It ranges from mild (grade 1 murmur) to severe (grade 5-6, risk of sudden death). Annual echocardiogram by a board-certified veterinary cardiologist is required. Dogs with SAS grade 2 or higher should not be bred.

A Newfoundland stud without current cardiac clearances from a cardiologist should not be used.

OFA Hip Evaluation — Good or Excellent

Hip dysplasia is extremely common. OFA at 24 months, Good or Excellent, required.

OFA Elbow Evaluation — Normal

Elbow dysplasia occurs. OFA Normal required.

Cystinuria — DNA Test

Cystinuria is a heritable metabolic disorder causing cystine stones in the urinary tract. Newfoundlands have one of the highest rates of cystinuria of any breed. In severe cases, stones can cause urinary obstruction — life-threatening in males. Clear studs strongly preferred. A DNA test identifies the specific mutation(s) in Newfoundlands.

CAER Eye Examination — Annual

Hereditary eye conditions including cataracts occur. Annual CAER exam recommended.

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) — DNA Test

DM causes progressive hind limb weakness. Clear studs preferred.

Newfoundland Colors

Black: Most common. Brown (Chocolate): Rich brown. Gray: Blue-gray. Landseer: White with black markings in a specific pattern named after artist Sir Edwin Landseer.

Water Rescue and Working Titles

The NCA maintains water rescue tests: Water Dog (WD), Water Rescue Dog (WRD), Water Rescue Dog Excellent (WRDX). A stud with water rescue titles demonstrates swimming ability and biddability that define the breed.

What Does a Newfoundland Stud Fee Cost?

Newfoundland stud fees in 2026 typically range from $1,000 to $4,000 depending on current cardiac clearances (non-negotiable), cystinuria DNA (Clear preferred), OFA hip and elbow grades (Excellent especially valued), and NCA working titles.

Questions to Ask Before Booking