The Best Pet Insurance for Newfoundlands in 2025
Newfoundland : Health & Insurance
The Newfoundland is a true gentle giant, celebrated for its sweet temperament and impressive size. However, this giant stature is directly linked to a predisposition for serious and expensive medical needs.This breed faces a high risk of debilitating health issues, including hip and elbow dysplasia, cruciate ligament (CCL) tears, and life-threatening emergencies like Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV or bloat). They are also genetically prone to severe cardiac conditions like Subaortic Stenosis (SAS) and Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), as well as chronic issues like cystinuria.Due to the high probability of developing these costly hereditary and congenital conditions, the Newfoundland has a breed vulnerability score of 9 out of 10.While routine annual veterinary care can average $800-$1,500, treating a common Newfoundland ailment can be financially overwhelming: CCL surgery can exceed $5,000 per leg, emergency bloat surgery can cost up to $8,000, and managing a cardiac condition can run into many thousands over the dog's lifetime.Many standard insurance plans are unsuitable for Newfoundlands, as they often have low reimbursement limits that are quickly met, exclude hereditary conditions like dysplasia and SAS, or enforce long waiting periods (6-12 months) for orthopedic issues—the breed's primary risk.To secure adequate protection, owners should focus on insurers with robust plans designed for giant, at-risk breeds.➡️ Trupanion is an excellent choice for its policy with no payout limits, which is critical for covering the high costs of surgery and chronic care common in Newfoundlands.➡️ Spot offers a highly suitable plan with an unlimited coverage option and a short 14-day waiting period for all conditions, including cruciate ligament injuries.➡️ Fetch provides a uniquely comprehensive plan that includes exam fees and hereditary conditions with no lifetime caps, making it a strong all-around option.Below, you will find a complete health sheet, a detailed comparison table of the best plans, and essential cost-saving tips for your Newfoundland.
- ✅Top-tier plans offer high or unlimited annual payout limits, which are essential for a giant breed.
- ✅Provides strong coverage for breed-specific hereditary conditions like hip dysplasia and cardiac disease.
- ✅The best options feature short waiting periods for orthopedic injuries, a key risk for Newfoundlands.
- ❌Premiums are among the highest for any breed due to the Newfoundland's significant health risks and large size.
- ❌Some otherwise comprehensive plans may have long waiting periods (6+ months) for orthopedic conditions like hip dysplasia or CCL tears.
- ❌Policies without unlimited caps may be insufficient to cover the potential lifetime cost of chronic cardiac or orthopedic care.
- ✅Top-tier plans offer high or unlimited annual payout limits, which are essential for a giant breed.
- ✅Provides strong coverage for breed-specific hereditary conditions like hip dysplasia and cardiac disease.
- ✅The best options feature short waiting periods for orthopedic injuries, a key risk for Newfoundlands.
Newfoundland : Health & Insurance
- ✅Top-tier plans offer high or unlimited annual payout limits, which are essential for a giant breed.
- ✅Provides strong coverage for breed-specific hereditary conditions like hip dysplasia and cardiac disease.
- ✅The best options feature short waiting periods for orthopedic injuries, a key risk for Newfoundlands.
- ❌Premiums are among the highest for any breed due to the Newfoundland's significant health risks and large size.
- ❌Some otherwise comprehensive plans may have long waiting periods (6+ months) for orthopedic conditions like hip dysplasia or CCL tears.
- ❌Policies without unlimited caps may be insufficient to cover the potential lifetime cost of chronic cardiac or orthopedic care.
- ✅Top-tier plans offer high or unlimited annual payout limits, which are essential for a giant breed.
- ✅Provides strong coverage for breed-specific hereditary conditions like hip dysplasia and cardiac disease.
- ✅The best options feature short waiting periods for orthopedic injuries, a key risk for Newfoundlands.
- Newfoundland at a glance
- Veterinary Issues & Cost
- Best Insurance Plans
- Insurance Criteria
- Savings Tips
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
To create this guide, our HelloSafe pet insurance expert combined insights from veterinary professionals, real feedback from Newfoundland owners, and an in-depth review of 34 active insurance policies. The result: a clear, expert-driven comparison of the best options tailored to the unique needs of this breed. Read on for practical advice and trusted recommendations to help you find the right coverage at every stage of your Newfoundland's life.
Newfoundland: At a Glance
| 🐶 Newfoundland Characteristics | Details |
|---|---|
| 🕰️ Average lifespan | 8–10 years |
| 🧠 Temperament | Gentle, patient, loyal, calm; protective but rarely aggressive |
| 🐕 Lifestyle needs | Moderate daily exercise, space to roam, regular swimming if possible |
| 🫶🏻 Physical traits | Giant size, thick water-resistant double coat, large webbed paws, massive head |
| 📑 Animal type/category | Working dog; historically a water rescue and draft breed |
| 🐾 Trainability | Highly trainable, eager to please, responds best to gentle positive reinforcement |
| 👶🏻 Child-friendly? | Yes, famously good with children |
| 🧗♀️ Stairs compatibility | Yes as a puppy/adult with caution, but supervision for seniors due to joint health |
| 📏 Size (puppy/adult) | Puppy: 14–18 in; Adult: 26–28 in at shoulder |
| ⚖️ Weight (puppy/adult) | Puppy: 25–45 lbs; Adult: 100–150 lbs |
| 🧥 Coat & grooming | Heavy double coat, sheds seasonally, requires weekly brushing and occasional trimming |
| 💰 Purchase price | $1,500–$3,500 from a reputable breeder |
| ❤️ Popularity (US) | Moderately popular (AKC ranked ~40th most popular breed) |
| 🩺 Food & health budget | $1,200–$2,500 per year including food, supplements, and routine health care |
| 🏥 Health risks | Fragile (prone to joint, heart, and bloat issues) |
Legend: Key facts about Newfoundland in US.
Is Pet Insurance Worth It in Newfoundland?
Breed Risk Index for Newfoundland: 8/10
The Newfoundland receives a high risk score due to the breed’s significant predisposition to costly hereditary and orthopedic diseases, surgical emergencies, and cardiac defects. Veterinary data highlights a very high incidence of hip and elbow dysplasia, often requiring surgical correction (OFA: >25% hip dysplasia rate). Newfoundlands are also prone to cruciate ligament injuries, which may need bilateral surgeries. Life-threatening conditions like gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat) can require $2,000–$6,000 emergency surgery (Tufts, Cornell). Common cardiac issues include subaortic stenosis and dilated cardiomyopathy, both requiring specialist lifelong management. Their size increases treatment costs across all categories. Because many insurers restrict or sub-limit claims for hereditary, chronic, or orthopedic conditions, high or unlimited coverage is essential. Leading veterinary sources: OFA breed statistics, VCA Hospitals, Tufts University, American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.
🩺 Health Conditions & Veterinary Costs for Newfoundland
| Type of Condition | Example Condition | 📊 Occurrence frequency | Treatment / Care | Average Cost & Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Common illnesses | Ear infections (otitis externa) | Frequent: 2–4 times/year | Ear cleaning, topical therapy, culture | $250–$600/year – ✔️ Chronic/recurrent covered |
| Common illnesses | Urinary tract infection | Occasional: 1–2 times/year | Exams, urinalysis, antibiotics | $200–$500 per episode – ✔️ General illness coverage |
| Hereditary diseases | Hip dysplasia | Very frequent: >25% (OFA data) | Imaging, therapy, total hip replacement | $3,000–$7,000/hip – ✔️ Needs high-limit orthopedics |
| Hereditary diseases | Subaortic stenosis (cardiac) | Common: present in up to 10% | Echocardiogram, meds, periodic rechecks | $900–$2,000/year – ✔️ Cardiac coverage recommended |
| Chronic conditions | Arthritis/osteoarthritis | Inevitable with age for most | Pain meds, joint supplements, laser therapy | $500–$1,500/year – ✔️ Continuous management needed |
| Chronic conditions | Cystinuria (bladder stones) | Breed-associated, males > females | Imaging, stone removal, lifelong diet, monitoring | $1,200–$4,500+ – ✔️ Chronic/recurring illness plan |
| Age/species-related risks | Cruciate ligament tear (CCL rupture) | High: >8% lifetime risk | TPLO or extracapsular repair, rehab, hospitalization | $4,000–$6,000/leg – ✔️ Premium or uncapped policies |
| Age/species-related risks | Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) | Risk increases with age | Cardiology consults, meds, dietary adjustment | $1,500–$3,000/year – ✔️ Specialist/cardiac included |
| Behavioral risks | Separation anxiety | Occasional in large-breed pets | Behavior therapy, medications | $400–$1,200/year – ⚠️ Not standard coverage |
| Emergency or accident risks | Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat) | Deep-chested: ~2%/year risk | Emergency surgery, ICU | $2,000–$6,000 – ✔️ Emergency/ICU limit critical |
| Emergency or accident risks | Heat stroke | Higher risk in summer, thick coats | Emergency cooling, hospitalization | $800–$2,400/incident – ✔️ Acute care in policy |
| Preventive care needed | Screening for SAS/hip dysplasia | Annual/biannual in breed protocols | Cardiac echoes, hip X-rays, wellness exam | $400–$700/year – ✔️ Wellness/preventive add-ons |
| Preventive care needed | Dental cleanings | 1–2 times/year recommended | Professional cleaning, anesthesia | $350–$700/year – ✔️ Preventive dental recommended |
The Best Insurance Plans for Newfoundland Residents in the US
After thoroughly reviewing and comparing all available GTC (General Terms & Conditions) and IPID (Insurance Product Information Documents), I have determined which insurance providers in the US offer the most suitable coverage for a Newfoundland. My analysis cross-checked guarantees—including covered treatments, reimbursements, and annual limits—alongside exclusions for hereditary and breed-specific conditions and examined policy flexibility (waiting periods, age caps, deductible models). Below you’ll find a ranked comparison of the best insurance options for Newfoundlands:
| Insurer | 💬 Verdict | 🛡️ Key Coverage Strengths | ❌ Exclusions / Weak Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trupanion | ✅ High breed adaptation. |
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| Spot | ✅ High breed adaptation. |
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| Fetch | ✅ High breed adaptation. |
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| Embrace | ⚠️ Moderate breed adaptation. |
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| Healthy Paws | ⚠️ Moderate breed adaptation. |
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| Pets Best | ⚠️ Moderate breed adaptation. |
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| Prudent Pet | ⚠️ Moderate breed adaptation. |
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| Figo | ⚠️ Moderate breed adaptation. |
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| Lemonade | ❌ Low breed adaptation. |
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| Metlife | ❌ Low breed adaptation. |
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| AKC / PetPartners | ❌ Low breed adaptation. |
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- No payout limits (annual, per-incident, or lifetime)
Covers hereditary & congenital conditions
Per-condition deductible can be cost-effective for chronic issues
Direct payment to many vets available
- Does not cover exam/consultation fees
30-day waiting period for illnesses - Routine/preventive care is not covered
- Hereditary/congenital conditions included
Covers vet exam fees for accidents & illnesses
Short 14-day waiting period, including cruciate ligaments
Optional wellness add-on
- Base plans have annual limits (can be set to unlimited)
Curable pre-existing conditions need 180-day symptom-free period
- No annual/lifetime payout limits
Exam fees coveredIncludes breed-specific, behavioral, and physical therapy in base plan - Short 5-day injury waiting period
- Waiting period for hip/knee injuries can be complex and may require vet certification
Requires annual health/dental exams to maintain coverage
- Covers hereditary & chronic conditions
Includes exam fees, behavioral therapy, and alternative treatments - Wellness rewards add-on
- 6-month waiting period for orthopedic conditions
Dental illness capped at $1,000 per year
- No per-incident, annual, or lifetime payout caps
Covers hereditary & congenital conditions - Fast and simple claims process via app
- 12-month waiting period for hip dysplasia
Does not cover exam fees - Excludes preventative care
- Unlimited annual limit option
Accident-only and wellness plans24/7 pet helpline
- 6-month waiting period for cruciate injuries
Exam fees/rehab coverage require separate add-ons - Pre-existing definition is strict
- "Ultimate" plan has unlimited benefits
Covers hereditary & congenital conditions - 24/7 vet chat included
- 6-month waiting period for knee issues
Lower-tier plans capped at $10,000 - Exam fee coverage is an add-on
- Plans with 100% reimbursement and unlimited annual limits
Diminishing deductible - Hereditary/congenital conditions covered
- 6-month orthopedic waiting period (waivable with timely vet exam)
Exam fees/rehab/alt therapies are extra riders
- High annual limits available (up to $100,000)
Fast, digital claims process - Short 2-day accident waiting period
- Excludes physical therapy, behavioral and exam fees in base6-month orthopedic waiting period
No dental illness coverage
- Exam fees and some holistic care included
Deductible can decrease with "Healthy Pet Incentive"Optional wellness
- Default annual limit too low for Newfoundlands ($5,000)
Lower Trustpilot rating
- Wide range of optional riders
Coverage for pre-existing conditions after 365 days
- Hereditary/congenital conditions excluded from base (need "HereditaryPlus" rider)
Exam/alt therapy extra - 180-day knee waiting period
You can explore and compare these insurance options directly on our comparison tool to find the plan that fits your Newfoundland's needs and your budget.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance online.I compareHow to Choose the Best Insurance for Your Newfoundland
For a Newfoundland, opt for pet insurance with a high annual limit—at least $2,000, but ideally an unlimited payout, given the frequent need for expensive surgeries such as cruciate ligament repair (often $5,000+ per leg) and treatment for hip or elbow dysplasia. Select a plan with an 80–100% reimbursement rate—this is crucial since even routine care, medication, and anesthesia costs are higher for giant breeds.
Look for a low deductible (under $100/year) to reduce your out-of-pocket responsibility for chronic and acute incidents. Review policy exclusions carefully: ensure coverage for chronic, hereditary, and breed-specific conditions like Subaortic Stenosis, Dilated Cardiomyopathy, and bloat, which are all real, verified risks in Newfoundlands. Early enrollment is vital, as pre-existing conditions—including orthopedic problems and cystinuria—are rarely covered once symptoms appear. Insuring your Newfoundland as a healthy pup is the best way to secure vital protection for these costly and complex health issues.
How to Save on Pet Insurance for Your Newfoundland
| Savings Tip | How It Works | Impact on Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Target unlimited annual limits only when needed | For giant breeds like Newfoundland, unlimited caps are justified; but if you have strong emergency savings, selecting a lower cap can reduce costs. | High |
| Secure a multi-pet discount | If owning more than one dog, insuring both simultaneously grants a significant premium reduction on each policy. | Medium |
| Waive orthopedic waiting period with vet exam | Submitting a preventative orthopedic exam to insurers can waive long waiting periods and avoid rate surcharges for breed orthopedic risks. | Medium |
| Request direct-to-vet reimbursement | Choosing an insurer offering direct vet payment often results in administrative fee reductions, lowering the net premium. | Low |
| Keep surgical history documented | Submitting proof of any previous elective or preventive ortho procedures (like gastropexy for bloat) establishes lower risk, improving rating factors. | Low |
FAQ
What are the most common health risks for Newfoundland dogs?
Newfoundlands are prone to orthopedic conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as cruciate ligament tears which often require surgery. They are also at risk for serious heart conditions such as Subaortic Stenosis (SAS) and Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), plus life-threatening emergencies like gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat). Their size makes all treatments more expensive.
Does pet insurance cover hereditary conditions for Newfoundland dogs?
Most leading pet insurance plans cover hereditary and congenital conditions as long as you enroll your Newfoundland before these issues appear. Always read the policy details carefully to confirm that coverage includes specific risks such as dysplasia, cardiac defects, and cystinuria, and check for any applicable waiting periods or limits.
Why are veterinary costs higher for Newfoundlands compared to smaller breeds?
Because of their size, Newfoundlands require higher doses of medication, specialized anesthesia, and larger quantities of materials for surgeries and hospitalization. As a result, nearly every aspect of veterinary care, from routine procedures to emergency surgeries, is more costly for this giant breed.
What insurance features are most important for a Newfoundland?
Look for policies with unlimited or very high annual limits, robust coverage for hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament injuries, and congenital heart disease. Short waiting periods for orthopedic care and direct payment options to veterinarians can also be highly beneficial for managing large, sudden bills.
Are there any insurance exclusions I should be aware of for Newfoundlands?
Yes, some plans exclude or limit coverage for hereditary or chronic conditions if your dog already showed symptoms before enrollment. Waiting periods can also apply to orthopedic problems or bloat. It's vital to review all fine print and consider policies with minimal exclusions and comprehensive coverage early on.
Can you get pet insurance if my Newfoundland already had surgery or is diagnosed with a condition?
Most pet insurance will not reimburse treatment for conditions that appeared before your policy started, but some offer limited coverage for curable pre-existing issues after a symptom-free period. For chronic or severe pre-existing conditions, coverage will usually be excluded for life, making early enrollment essential.
Does Newfoundland insurance cover routine and preventive care?
Routine wellness and preventive care—such as vaccines, dental cleanings, or flea prevention—are not always included in standard accident/illness plans. Some insurers offer optional wellness add-ons that can help manage these ongoing costs. Always clarify what is included in your plan before purchasing.
What are the most common health risks for Newfoundland dogs?
Newfoundlands are prone to orthopedic conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as cruciate ligament tears which often require surgery. They are also at risk for serious heart conditions such as Subaortic Stenosis (SAS) and Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), plus life-threatening emergencies like gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat). Their size makes all treatments more expensive.
Does pet insurance cover hereditary conditions for Newfoundland dogs?
Most leading pet insurance plans cover hereditary and congenital conditions as long as you enroll your Newfoundland before these issues appear. Always read the policy details carefully to confirm that coverage includes specific risks such as dysplasia, cardiac defects, and cystinuria, and check for any applicable waiting periods or limits.
Why are veterinary costs higher for Newfoundlands compared to smaller breeds?
Because of their size, Newfoundlands require higher doses of medication, specialized anesthesia, and larger quantities of materials for surgeries and hospitalization. As a result, nearly every aspect of veterinary care, from routine procedures to emergency surgeries, is more costly for this giant breed.
What insurance features are most important for a Newfoundland?
Look for policies with unlimited or very high annual limits, robust coverage for hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament injuries, and congenital heart disease. Short waiting periods for orthopedic care and direct payment options to veterinarians can also be highly beneficial for managing large, sudden bills.
Are there any insurance exclusions I should be aware of for Newfoundlands?
Yes, some plans exclude or limit coverage for hereditary or chronic conditions if your dog already showed symptoms before enrollment. Waiting periods can also apply to orthopedic problems or bloat. It's vital to review all fine print and consider policies with minimal exclusions and comprehensive coverage early on.
Can you get pet insurance if my Newfoundland already had surgery or is diagnosed with a condition?
Most pet insurance will not reimburse treatment for conditions that appeared before your policy started, but some offer limited coverage for curable pre-existing issues after a symptom-free period. For chronic or severe pre-existing conditions, coverage will usually be excluded for life, making early enrollment essential.
Does Newfoundland insurance cover routine and preventive care?
Routine wellness and preventive care—such as vaccines, dental cleanings, or flea prevention—are not always included in standard accident/illness plans. Some insurers offer optional wellness add-ons that can help manage these ongoing costs. Always clarify what is included in your plan before purchasing.
