Large breed dogs are beautiful animals. They display a grace and strength in their movements that is often unexpected by those unfamiliar with the special qualities of this size dog. As the owner of a larger dog, an awareness of the common health problems that may affect your dog will help you to keep your animal healthy and happy well into the future. There are several things to keep in mind when striving to keep your pet healthy.

A good diet is one of the main things a pet owner can do to prevent many illnesses and injuries. The diet should include food specifically designed for large dogs, as well as supplements, and vitamins formulated for large breed dogs and their special needs. Combining a good diet and plenty of exercise will keep your dog healthy, and help to avoid obesity, heart problems and a host of other issues.

Certain diseases are more common in large breed dogs. Large breed dogs are more prone to have orthopedic (bone and skeletal) problems and heart concerns. The tendency toward Orthopedic problems stems from the dog’s size and the amount of weight a large breed dog has to carry versus his smaller canine relatives. In larger dogs, some growth problems may also lead to bone and skeletal problems due to the fast pace and amount of growth the large breed dog experience. If your dog is having orthopedic problems, they will become less active, have problems getting up after extended periods of rest, and decrease the use of their joints by reducing their overall level of activity.

Common Problems:

  • Hip Dysplasia – The ball of the femur bone doesn’t fit into the hip socket, causing inflammation and pain.
  • Cervical Vertebral Instability – An abnormality causing instability between two vertebrae (bones). This condition usually effects vertebrae(bones) in the neck of the large breed canine.
  • Osteochondritis Dissecans – This is a flaw in the joint cartilage; more common in young larger breed dogs.
  • Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy – Irregular bone growth which causes pain at the ends of the bones, there may have visible inflammation from this condition.

For problems, such as hip dysplasia, supplementing your dog’s diet with glucosamine in one of its’ many forms such as pills or tablets, will help to strengthen the bones and joints of the dog. Vitamins are also very helpful in maintaining health and the proper metabolism of nutrients in your dog’s diet.