Are you thinking about adopting a large dog breed?
Owning a large dog comes with joys and responsibilities. They bring loyalty, love, and wonderful companionship to our lives.
However, you need to take a few special considerations into account. Large dogs need designated space, and a healthy diet, and are prone to certain health issues that require your attention and care.
It’s always best to know what to expect. So get ready to learn how to take care of large dogs.
Why Large Dogs Need Proper Care
Large dogs have distinct temperaments and unique physical needs due to their size and weight.
Improper care can lead to joint problems and other health and behavioral issues.
They have specific dietary requirements to support their growth, health, and well-being. Also, proper training (tips for you) and socialization are vital to prevent behavioral issues. With proper care, you can contribute to your dogs' longevity, happiness, and well-being.ks
Popular Large Dog Breeds
Here are some popular large dog breeds:
- Golden Retriever
- Labrador Retriever
- Belgian Malinois
- Boxer
- Standard Poodle
- Siberian Husky
- Rottweiler
- German Shepherd Dog
- Doberman Pinscher
- Old English Sheepdog
Considerations When Choosing a Large Dog
You may be thinking, “What to know about owning a big dog?”
Good care contributes to a longer lifespan for large dogs. It allows them to enjoy more happy years with their families, free from health and behavioral problems.
Here are some of the considerations, helpful tips, and challenges to keep in mind.
Creating a Safe Environment
With large dogs, you’ll need a home large enough to fit your furry companion and its belongings comfortably. Provide a designated space for your large dog inside your home. This will give them a sense of comfort and security of being in a familiar environment. In addition, accessories and dog toys may also help your canine companions relax.
Feeding and Nutrition
Diet is a very important point that contributes to the overall health of your dog. Large dogs have a very rapid growth rate, which can predispose them to certain developmental orthopedic disorders, especially in those that are fed an improper diet.
A large breed puppy should be given food three times a day. As the pup gets older, You should switch to two meals a day. Feed your large breed dog at least two hours before they perform any exercise. Fresh and clean water should be available at all times for your dog.
Grooming
The grooming needs of a large dog depend on the coat. Overall, frequent coat brushing (2-3 times per week) is one of the best things you can do for your dog. For large dogs, it is recommended to give periodic baths as needed. Over-bathing is not recommended for dogs. When bathing them, use a good quality canine shampoo and conditioner. If your large dog has wrinkles, you need to clean the folds of their skin to prevent skin infections.
Pet Parent Tip: When you groom your large dog, look inside its mouth and ears. Check for signs of infections and allergies like redness, rashes, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin.
Health
Here are some common health problems among large dog breeds.
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Bloat
- Arthritis
- Dilated Cardiomyopathy
- Cruciate Ligament Injuries
- Mast cell tumors
Identifying these problems early can reduce long-term complications.
How long do large dogs live? The average life span of large dogs typically ranges from 10 to 12 years. However, this is dependent on several factors, including breed, genetics, diet, care, and individual health status.
Exercise
Large dogs need regular exercise to improve their mental, physical, and emotional well-being. They can become destructive and problematic if their exercise needs are not met. So, you should expect to participate in daily exercise sessions with your furry companion.
You can meet their exercise requirements by:
- Teaching new tricks
- Walking
- Chasing
- Jogging
- Fetching
- Hide-and-seek
- Agility training
- Playing with interactive and puzzle toys
- Play tug of war
- Hiking in a moderate climate
Training and Socialization
All dogs need early training, enrichment, and socialization. It’s important that training begins early and lasts a lifetime. When it comes to manners in large dogs, there is little margin for error. If a large dog jumps on kids or guests, there will be a significant safety concern. So, you need to make sure that your dog has impeccable manners.
Having a large dog means a huge commitment to daily training. The ideal time to train a dog is when it's a puppy. Training should be fun, positive, and reward-based like any dog. Be consistent with the training rules and show a lot of patience.
Here are some of the training that you need to do with your large dog:
- Socialization with kids, other people and pets
- Lead training (Use Rabbitgoo Tactical Leash for ideal blend of safety and comfort for your dog)
- Crate training
- Barking training
- Housebreaking
- Basic obedience training. Teach your dog commands like sit, stay, go, shake-hand, etc.
Driving With Large Dogs
A safe spot to put large dogs is the rear seat of your vehicle. If this isn't an option, you can use your vehicle's cargo area. However, your pet should be restrained to help protect them and make them comfortable.
Many products can help keep dogs safe and comfortable while traveling. With Rabbitgoo Dog Car Barrier, your large dog will stay in place and the whole journey will be safer. It keeps your pet securely in the cargo area, preventing it from moving to the front seat or distracting the driver.
You can also try Rabbitgoo Pet Net Barrier to ensure safety and cleanliness in your car. The barrier is made of thick polyester material and metal hooks with an anti-rust coating to ensure long-term use.
Depending on the height of your vehicle, you may also need to install stairs or a ramp, especially for puppies and senior dogs.
Final Thoughts
Large dogs might be a lot of work, but they also give unconditional love and bring huge amount of fun.
Every dog is individual and has its own unique needs and personality. So, what goes perfect for one dog may not work for the other. As a loving pet parent, you just have to be a little more thoughtful and creative!
And for quality pet products that cater to your large dog's needs, consider trying Rabbitgoo.
Your dog deserves the best, after all!