Summer is Sizzling – Keep Pet Safety in Mind!
June 30, 2017Disaster Preparedness for Pets
September 5, 2017Dogs—big or small—have a way of finding their way into your heart. Whether joining your home as a puppy or an older pet, purebred or rescue, dogs truly are man’s best friend. For dog owners of large breeds, the joy they bring can be big as they are! Yet it’s important to remember that caring for your big pup often involves different approaches than smaller dogs, and should factor in breed type. We’ve rounded up general tips on caring for large breed dogs, keep reading and give your big pup a hug today!
Large Breed Nutrition
Big dogs come with big appetites, but pet owners need to resist the urge to overfeed them. Overfeeding large breed puppies can lead to accelerated growth, which can lead to joint issues as they age. Consult with your veterinarian about what type of food is best for your particular large breed, and discuss supplement options if needed. Many times vets will suggest specialized brands of dog foods for your big ‘ol pup.
Grooming & Hygiene for Your Large Dog
All dogs need to be cared for, groomed, and bathed, and when you’re dealing with a large breed it can be more time consuming – and fun! Taking your pup outside for a bath on a warm summer’s day can be a great experience for all involved, but if your large breed is water shy or you don’t have the proper tools then consider a groomer. Professional groomers can help wash your pet, clip their nails, brush their teeth and assess any hygiene issues. Whether taking bath time to the backyard or to the groomer, keeping your dog clean and healthy is vital to a happy life.
Training Tips for a Large Breed
Large breed puppies are cute and cuddley (and sometimes small) but they grow up very quickly! Once your dog reaches four months of age it’s time to begin house training and basic obedience. Since bigger dogs can be interpreted as more menacing when out in public, it’s important to start training them at young age to help them acclimate to their surroundings and obey when in public settings. Start with basic commands (sit, stay, heel) and use positive reinforcements such treats or cuddles. At It’s A Dog’s World, our highly skilled staff can work with breeds of all sizes and has specialized modalities for large breeds, bring your pup to It’s A Dog’s World for a free consultation!
Exercise for your Large Breed
Large breed puppies can have extreme amounts of energy, and they grow up to be just as active! From Greyhounds to Great Danes to Boxers, large breed dogs need to be properly exercised. A standard leash walk is great and make sure to go a distance that’s reasonable and adequate for your pooch. Other exercises for your dog could include fetch races, visits to the dog park, or creating an obstacle course. Use items in your backyard or in a park to encourage extended play and jumping, and reward Fido with a treat when they reach the end!
For more information on It’s A Dog’s World Canine Academy visit www.ItsaDogsWorld.biz.