Large Dog Care in Tampa, FL
Most veterinarians consider any canine, notwithstanding of breed or blend of breeds, that weighs between 50-100 pounds to be a large-breed pooch, and those enormous mutts come with enormous obligation! Large dogs possess a special set of needs. Are you considering getting a huge breed puppy? Owning one is different than owning a small pup. They can be an exceptional addition to your family, but it’s important to be prepared and educated.
Most of these extra-large dogs are loving, and faithful pets, but they do require extra space to move around and appropriate exercise to stay healthy.
Large breed dogs include, but are not limited to:
- Labrador Retrievers
- Dalmatians
- Golden Retrievers
- German Shepherds
- Great Danes
- Newfoundlands
- Mastiffs
- Boxers
- Bernese Mountain Dogs
- Greyhounds
As the owner of a large pup, you do need to be aware of the medical challenges these breeds are vulnerable to. Due to their size and weight, large breed dogs are candidates for conditions such as bloat (or gastric torsion), joint pain, and orthopedic diseases.
Although this may vary by breed and life stage, below are some common issues we see in larger dogs.
- Lymphoma
- Mast cell tumors
- Tumors of the spleen
- Dilated (taurine-deficient) cardiomyopathy
- Hypothyroidism
- Developmental orthopedic disorders
- Cruciate ligament/knee injuries
- Laryngeal paralysis
In order for your large dog to have a long and healthy life, make sure they get plenty of exercise (many consider a professional dog walker for extra activity), quality food for large dogs, and of course, excellent medical care.
Make sure your large pup visits the vet for regular check-ups. As they get older, see us twice a year so that any issues are caught early. We can also help you ensure your big friend is eating the right food and getting any necessary supplements.
With the right big-dog nutrition, exercise, grooming support, and lots of love, you can provide your big pal the tools needed to live a fruitful, happy, and healthy life. If you need further assistance regarding your large pet, you can call us today!
