5 Essentials for Your Large Breed Dog

Many people prefer large dogs as a companion and there are several breeds to choose from. Large breed dogs are typically those who weigh above 50 pounds. These include Boxers, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers. There are also dogs that are classed as giant breeds such as St. Bernards, Newfoundlands, and Great Danes.

If you want to bring a large breed into your home, remember big dogs have big demands. You’ll need more space, more food, and a lot more energy. Here are five essentials for your large breed dog.

Space

For a larger dog, you’ll need more space, inside and out. Here are some examples of big dog breeds that need substantial backyard space. They’ll also need regular walks in a wide open space. Take your large breed to the park or local woods daily and ensure they get the exercise they need. If you don’t have time to walk your dog at least once a day then perhaps a smaller breed would be a better choice.

Dog Door

An extra large dog breed will require an extra large dog door. If you plan on letting your dog have access to the yard at all times, which is ideal for big breeds, then fit a dog door. This way they’ll be able to go outside and stretch their legs when they need to.

Before getting any kind of dog, it’s important to dog-proof your home. Make sure it’s safe for the new member of the family. Larger breeds will take up more space so you might want to think about rearranging your home so it’s suitable for them to get around. They’ll need a larger bed too.

Proper Nutrition

One thing to remember with larger breeds is cost. They do eat more than smaller dogs, and you’ll want to make sure they get the right amount of food. Make sure you do your research on proper nutrition for large and giant breeds. 

Maintaining a healthy weight is especially important for large breeds as otherwise, they are more prone to joint problems and hip dysplasia. Ensure your large dog gets the nutrition it needs without overfeeding. Always speak to your veterinarian for dietary advice. 

Toys

Big dogs are very strong and they need toys that can take a bit of wear and tear. Even though they’re only playing, large breeds can rip apart a toy in no time, whereas a smaller dog could keep it for years. Here are some of the best toys for big dogs.

Grooming

If you take your dog to be professionally groomed, they generally charge by size. Although professional grooming is recommended once in a while, it’s a good idea to learn how to correctly groom them yourself. Here are some tips for grooming large dogs. 

Make sure you invest in the right equipment such as large nail clippers and shears. Aside from taking a little longer, grooming a large breed isn’t any different from a small dog, and they’re typically a lot more patient.