Answering 9 FAQs About Large Dog Breeds
The bigger the dog, the more there is to love. If that’s your perspective, you might be the ideal pet parent of a German Shepherd, Siberian Husky or Great Dane. Aspiring dog owners, who are interested in large breeds, want to ensure their lifestyles and homes can accommodate such a companion, and they also need to be aware of any special considerations.
Give your giant furry friend the support they need for a happy life with guidance from Tractor Supply, plus a wide range of dog products. Here, we’re providing answers to nine of the most frequently asked questions about large dog breeds.
1. How Do I Support Their Big Appetites and Health?
Every pet owner’s top priority is ensuring their beloved companion stays healthy. All dogs may experience health issues at some point in their lives, but their size can sometimes make them more inclined to certain conditions or injuries. However, you can prepare for other issues by supporting their overall health and wellness from the puppy stage and on.
Many large dogs experience joint disease, which may affect their shoulders, hips and knees and progress into arthritis without treatment. One way to support their joints is to give your pup the right dog food, with options that boost hip and joint health. It’s not just what’s in the bowl that matters, either – different types of dog bowls encourage slower eating to help prevent bloat, such as elevated dishes or slow feeders.
You can support big dogs further by enhancing their diet with vitamins and supplements. Our inventory includes options with features to support bone health, dog digestion and other concerns.
2. What Can Big Dogs Snack on Between Meals?
Despite their size, you still see these large companions as sweet little puppies and constantly want to shower them with love. What better way to show how much joy they bring you than rewarding them with treats? From the always-appreciated biscuits and cookies to the bones and bully sticks that keep them engaged for hours, there’s always something tasty to give your buddy in our selection of dog treats and chews. Of course, treats and chews should be given in moderation, and finding exactly what your dog loves may take some trial and error – it’s all part of being a dog owner!
3. Is My Home Big Enough for a Giant Pup?
Their sheer size isn’t the only concern when accommodating a large dog. You also want to think about your home’s layout – is it spacious enough for them to run around in without possibly breaking some cherished decor? You might consider rearranging furniture to prepare for the first day in their new home.
Once you have the open spaces your new furry friend needs, provide dedicated areas for them to lounge. Big canines like to cuddle and curl up just as much as their small counterparts, so make sure they have large dog beds to match. Orthopedic beds are comfortable on tired joints, and outdoor beds are convenient when taking them on the family camping trip.
You’ll also need a large or extra-large crate for sleeping in at night or when you’re not home. Crates keep your big boy or girl secured, and you can make them feel safe by adding their favorite blanket or bedding pads.
4. What Does a Large Dog Play With?
Big dogs play hard, and you need toys to match their rough-and-tumble personalities. You could always play catch with a spare tennis ball, but having their own playthings helps keep their noses out of objects meant for people. More than simply a way to keep them occupied between meals, walks and lounging, playing encourages mental stimulation for constant enrichment. Interactive and puzzle toys, for example, give their brains just as much exercise as a walk does for them physically.
Large and extra-large pups want dog toys that their teeth can sink into and their paws can push around. Let them bite at chew toys, wrangle with ropes or tug toys or grab balls and fetch toys large enough for their mouths. For more mental stimulation, consider interactive and puzzle toys they have to figure out. Explore more of the best large dog toys to entertain them and make their tails wag with joy.
5. Can I Travel with a Big Dog?
Speaking of camping trips – how do you lug 80+ pounds of energy and love around for family vacations? Some pet owners can’t imagine a trip without their beloved companion; plus, what better way to get them out and to exercise in the Great Outdoors than bringing them along? Just make sure you have the right-sized dog travel products to ensure they’re safe and sound, such as beds large enough to keep them secure on the way and pet tents to protect them from the elements.
You might not be traveling far with your dog, just to a nearby lake for a day by the beach or a visit to the vet. Either way, spacious transportation is vital for a comfortable ride. If you’re bringing them along in a crate or carrier, provide ample space in the back seat or trunk, plus room for all of their toys and supplies. Don’t forget leashes and harnesses, and bring along portable water and food dishes so you don’t miss any mealtimes.
6. Do I Need an Outdoor Kennel?
Your home likely isn’t enough to contain your boisterous pup – they love to spend time outside. When you’re not walking them, having the right enclosure to keep them safe in the backyard is essential. You might wonder if your canine will have enough space, but with the kennels and other containment products we carry, you’ll find varieties meant for a dog their size. Kennels might also offer extra room for a dog house in case they want to take a nap. If light rain begins, you don’t have to lug them inside with options that feature canopy-style roofs for protection.
7. Can I Train Such a Large Dog?
Training is essential no matter their size, but it’s particularly important with large breeds. You can – and absolutely should – train your giant dog. These pups can sometimes weigh as much or more than some humans – especially children – so you don’t want to put anyone’s well-being at risk because of their misbehavior.
Besides how they interact with their family and other people, you might want to bring your dog to a nearby park to make friends with other energetic canines. With proper training, taking them to the park or on daily walks around the block is an easy task since you know they’ll behave.
Training should begin shortly after you bring the new member of the family home. Remember that despite their size, puppies are still puppies – even if they weigh more than another breed full-grown. Always correct dog behavior with firmness yet sensitivity. Training should be a positive experience for you and your pet, encouraging their obedience and building your bond. We make it easy to get started with training and behavior products that help you teach large and extra-large breeds manners for living with people and other pets. Of course, we also offer training treats to reward them for a job well done.
8. How Do I Handle My Large Dog on Walks?
When you’re cuddling in bed or on the couch, your big dog might still feel like a small pup. You likely won’t think that when you take them for a walk. However, dog collars, leashes and harnesses help make walks a stress-free experience with options that fit across their large bodies.
Retractable leashes provide more give as your dog starts to get ahead so it doesn’t add strain, and if you’re walking the baby in the stroller, a hands-free option lets your beloved companion tag along while staying close by your side.
9. Are Large Breeds More Susceptible to Fleas and Ticks?
Fleas, ticks and other pests target all dogs, but large canines can provide a bigger host site for these vermin. More than just an annoyance that causes them to itch, these pests pose a serious health risk to animals and humans. Dog skin issues and conditions such as anemia may develop, and these insects may carry blood-borne parasites and diseases. If your pet spends any amount of time outside – as many large breeds do – their risk for infestation may be higher.
As soon as you notice signs of fleas or ticks, consult the veterinarian about treatment and prevention. They can point you toward reliable and effective flea and tick control products for large and extra-large breeds.
Prepare for Your New (Large) Best Friend with Tractor Supply
Dog parents know that caring for, training and playing with their large bundle of joy is one of the most rewarding experiences. Make the most of every day when you support their Life Out Here with essential dog products for large and extra-large breeds. Visit your local Tractor Supply store today or browse our inventory online.