How to Care for Large Dog Breeds

By eHow Pets Editor

Instructions

Step 1:
Feed your dog a high-quality commercial food designed specifically for large breeds. Choose one according to your dog's age. These foods offer the proper balance of nutrition for quick-growing large breeds and often additives for joint health. Feed large breed puppies a puppy food until 18 months of age.
Step 2:
Exercise your dog regularly to prevent common medical problems, reduce anxiety and curb obesity. Take your dog on walks, to dog parks or hiking and camping to keep her in shape. Large dog breeds are difficult to handle when they become destructive out of boredom or anxiety. Talk to your veterinarian about the specific exercise requirements for your breed.
Step 3:
Take your dog to obedience class. Without proper training, large dogs are unintentionally imposing. Train your dog with commands and basic behaviors like leash walking to keep her in control around people and other dogs.
Step 4:
Purchase supplies designed for large breed dogs. Buy leashes and collars durable enough to withstand the strength and weight of your large dog. Elevated feeders make it easier for large breeds to eat. Get large breed toys that don't pose a choking hazard. Choose tough ones like ropes and rubber balls that withstand strong chewing.
Step 5:
Visit your veterinarian at least once a year for general health checkups. Large breed dogs age faster than smaller breeds and are susceptible to joint and other health problems. Use a flea and heartworm preventative monthly.

More Puppy Pages

How to Care for Puppies

Instructions Step 1: Take your puppy to the veterinarian soon after you bring him home for a checkup. He must be checked for parasites, viruses, heartworm and vaccinated against diseases. Bring a stool sample to the appointment. This will help the doctor...

Instructions Step 1: Take your flat coated retriever to the veterinarian immediately after purchasing or adopting. If using a breeder, make sure he is reputable. Your puppy must be checked for basic health and tested for disease. Step 2: Feed your dog a...

Instructions Things You’ll Need: Resources to research a variety of breeds Complete willingness to care for a dog for its lifetime Step 1: If you live in an apartment, owning a dog can be a little tricky. You have limited space inside and little or...

Instructions Step 1: Take your American Eskimo for regular checkups including eye exams. Have your Eskie’s teeth cleaned professionally; usually once or twice a year is sufficient. Check with a vet or teeth-cleaning professional for a recommended...

Instructions Step 1: Take your Samoyed for regular health checkups including eye exams and have the teeth cleaned professionally once or twice a year. Check with a vet or teeth-cleaning professional for a recommended schedule. Stay current on...