Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis (SAS)
This condition is still prevalent in the breed and prospective puppy buyers should definitely be aware of it. SAS is considered a developmental, inherited disease, meaning that it develops during the first weeks of a puppy's life. It is characterized by a lesion in the heart that impedes blood flow from the left ventricle. Dogs with mild cases can live a normal life, while more severe cases will result in premature death. SAS can manifest itself in a heart murmur at 8-10 weeks of age, so responsible breeders will have puppies checked by a canine cardiologist before they go to their new homes. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) maintains a database of dogs that have been designated cardiac normal.

Hip Dysplasia
Dysplasia occurs when the hip joint does not develop correctly and the ball of the hip does not fit properly in the socket. The condition can also affect the elbows and is hereditary, although the combination of genes causing it is not yet known. Mildly dysplastic dogs can be very active, although they are likely to develop arthritis as they age. Severe cases are often crippling and result in the dog having to be euthanized. Dysplasia is detected through x-rays of the joints, which can be submitted to the OFA for evaluation. The OFA examines the x-rays and designates the dog's hips and/or elbows as dysplastic, fair, good or excellent. Results are maintained in a searchable data base on the OFA website. When considering a purchase, you should ask about the history of hip and elbow clearances in the pedigree. Clearances in both parents is not a guarantee against dysplasia. However, a history of clearances among the dog's ancestors, littermates and parents' litter mates will greatly increase the probability of a healthy dog.

Elbow Anomaly
This is a relatively new phenomenon characterized by improper growth of the radius and ulna, causing the elbow to become dislocated. The condition is believed to be hereditary, although relatively little is known about the genetic causes. Affected dogs are essentially crippled and usually must be euthanized. The Newfoundland Club of America is funding research to help find the cause and reduce incidence.

Cystinuria
This is a hereditary condition resulting in the formation of crystals or stones in the kidneys, which can cause frequent urinary tract infections and painful urination. Larger stones can result in blockages. Dogs are affected when they inherit the recessive gene for cystinuria from both parents. A "carrier" is a dog that has inherited the gene from only one parent. A DNA test available through VetGen and other labs can determine whether a dog is affected, a carrier, or clear of the cystinuria gene. Breeders can avoid the disease by ensuring that carriers are not bred with each other.

Bloat
This condition develops suddenly and is fatal unless detected quickly. The stomach fills with gas and twists out of position, restricting blood flow. Affected dogs will act distressed and may try to vomit. Emergency surgery must be performed to place the stomach back in its normal position.