Caring for a Large Dog

Is your dog larger than life? Our canine pals come in all shapes and sizes, from the tiny Chihuahua to the massive Great Dane. Big dogs have big hearts, but they do need quite a bit of care. Read on as a Thorold, ON vet discusses caring for a large dog.

Training is important for all dogs, but it’s particularly crucial for larger breeds, for safety reasons. For instance, if Fido thinks he’s the boss, he may decide to walk you, instead of the other way around. If your canine companion doesn’t obey basic commands, like Sit , Stay , Heel , Come , and Lay Down , enlist the help of a professional trainer or dog behaviorist. If you get your furry buddy as a puppy, teach him good petiquette from the start. Don’t let him get into the habit of sleeping in your lap or jumping on people!

Fido may squash regular doggy beds pretty quickly, so you’ll need to get something that offers lots of support. Orthopedic beds are great. You can also use a child’s mattress.

Did you know that large dogs age more quickly than little dogs? Fido may be a senior as early as age six. Your furry pal’s diet, care, and activity needs will change as he ages. Take him to the vet regularly, and ask for care recommendations.

Like any other pooch, Fido needs regular activity to stay healthy. However, not all types of exercise are suitable for pups that are larger than life. For instance, because hip dysplasia is common in many larger dogs, you may want to avoid encouraging your canine buddy to jump or stand on his hind legs. Ask your vet for specific advice.

When shopping for Fido, always choose products that are made for bigger dogs. Fido could choke on toys and treats made for smaller pooches! Tennis balls are one thing to be concerned with. Ask your vet for more information.

Good nutrition is important for all of our furry friends. You’ll need to be extra careful during your pet’s puppyhood. Fido will grow very quickly, so any nutritional imbalances could put too much strain on his body. This can lead to medical issues down the road. Follow your vet’s advice.

Please call us, your Thorold, ON vet hospital, for all your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!