Common Medical Questions for Extra Large Breed Dogs
Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't form properly, leading to arthritis and pain. It affects up to 70% of certain large breeds like German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Saint Bernards.
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists. Deep-chested breeds like Great Danes, Mastiffs, and Weimaraners are at highest risk.
- Distended abdomen
- Unsuccessful vomiting attempts
- Excessive drooling
- Restlessness and pacing
- Feed smaller, frequent meals
- Avoid exercise after eating
- Use slow-feeder bowls
- Consider prophylactic gastropexy
Large and giant breeds are prone to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a condition where the heart becomes enlarged and weakened, reducing its ability to pump blood effectively.
- Doberman Pinschers
- Great Danes
- Irish Wolfhounds
- Newfoundlands
- Exercise intolerance
- Coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Weakness/collapse
Annual cardiac exams starting at age 3
Large breed puppies have special nutritional and exercise needs to prevent developmental orthopedic diseases. Their rapid growth makes them vulnerable to joint problems if not properly managed.
Do This:
- Feed large breed puppy formula
- Controlled, low-impact exercise
- Avoid forced exercise until 18+ months
- Swimming for exercise
- Joint supplements (ask vet)
Avoid This:
- Jogging/running before 18 months
- Jumping from heights
- Over-supplementing calcium
- Free-feeding or overfeeding
- Repetitive high-impact activities
Unfortunately, many large and giant breeds have higher cancer rates, particularly bone cancer (osteosarcoma) and certain blood cancers. Early detection is crucial for better outcomes.
Early Detection Signs
- Unusual lumps or bumps
- Persistent lameness
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty eating/swallowing
- Sudden weight loss
- Persistent coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Changes in bathroom habits
Giant breeds typically live 8-12 years, shorter than smaller dogs. However, proper care, nutrition, and preventive medicine can help maximize their healthy years.
- Maintain healthy weight
- Regular veterinary care
- Quality nutrition
- Appropriate exercise
- Mental stimulation
- Dental care
- Puppy (0-2): Growth monitoring
- Adult (2-6): Annual health checks
- Senior (6+): Bi-annual exams
- Geriatric (8+): Specialized care
Additional Resources
Find a Veterinarian
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Emergency Hotline
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Health Tracking
Download our health tracking sheets and vaccination schedules.