Common Health Problems in Large Dog Breeds
Large dog breeds—think Saint Bernards, Great Danes, Mastiffs, Irish Wolfhounds, Rottweilers, Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds—bring a lot of love and loyalty to the family. But their size and genetics also make them prone to specific health challenges that owners should know about. Let’s dig into the most frequent issues seen in these gentle giants and how you can help keep your big buddy feeling their best.
Hip Dysplasia
This genetic disorder is notorious among large breeds. The bones of the hip joint don’t fit together as they should, causing instability and abnormal wear. You might notice your dog limping, struggling to get up, or showing stiffness after rest. Sometimes there’s a bunny-hopping gait or lameness in the back legs. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight helps a lot. Treatment ranges from medications and joint supplements to physical therapy—and sometimes surgery if things get severe.
Elbow Dysplasia
Another joint problem common in big dogs is elbow dysplasia. Here, the elbow joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to lameness (often before a year old). Diagnosis involves exams and imaging. Managing this condition usually means controlling weight and exercise; some dogs may need surgery to correct it.
Arthritis (Osteoarthritis)
Years of carrying extra pounds put stress on joints. Arthritis creeps in as a chronic condition—causing pain, stiffness, limping, less activity, trouble with stairs, or irritability. Treatment focuses on pain relief: anti-inflammatory meds, weight control, glucosamine supplements, physical therapy—and sometimes surgery if things get really tough.
Bloat (Gastric Dilatation Volvulus)
Bloat is one of the scariest emergencies for deep-chested large breeds like Great Danes or Saint Bernards. The stomach fills with gas and twists—leading to a swollen belly, restlessness, unsuccessful attempts to vomit, panting or drooling. This can turn fatal quickly without emergency care. Prevention includes feeding smaller meals more often and avoiding heavy exercise after eating; some owners opt for preventive surgery called gastropexy.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
This heart disease weakens the muscular walls so the heart gets enlarged and less efficient at pumping blood. It’s especially common in Dobermans, Boxers, Newfoundlands—and other big breeds. Early on you may not notice anything; later signs include lethargy, coughing or trouble breathing after exercise. While there’s no cure for DCM itself yet, medications can help manage symptoms and slow things down.
Entropion & Ectropion
Some large dogs have eyelid issues: entropion (lids roll inward) or ectropion (lids roll outward). Both cause irritation—redness or discharge—and sometimes pain. Severe cases may need surgery; mild ones might just need eye drops for comfort.
Cancer
Larger dogs face higher risks for certain cancers: osteosarcoma (bone cancer), hemangiosarcoma (blood vessel tumors), lymphoma. Signs depend on type but can include lumps under the skin, swelling in limbs or sudden collapse. Regular check-ups make early detection more likely—which is crucial for treatment options.
Obesity
Big breeds like Labradors are prone to gaining too much weight—which puts even more strain on their joints and increases risk for diabetes or arthritis. Genetics sometimes play a role here too! Preventing obesity means portion control at every meal plus regular walks or play sessions.
Cruciate Ligament Tears
The cranial cruciate ligament stabilizes the knee—much like an ACL does in humans. Large active dogs (or those who are overweight) are at risk for tearing this ligament during play or running around outside. Sudden lameness in a hind leg is often the giveaway; most need surgery followed by rehab.
Von Willebrand's Disease
This inherited bleeding disorder affects clotting ability—so affected dogs may bleed excessively from small wounds or have nosebleeds/blood in stool unexpectedly.
Other Joint & Bone Disorders
- Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)—especially in long-backed large breeds
- Ununited anconeal process or fragmented coronoid process—other elbow problems seen early in life
Catching these early helps preserve mobility long-term.
Preventive Care Tips for Owners
- Keep your dog at their ideal body weight—it reduces stress on joints and lowers risks for bloat/diabetes too.
- Select diets made specifically for large breed puppies/adults to avoid rapid growth that stresses developing bones/joints.
- Schedule regular vet visits for screening heart disease/joint disorders/cancers common to big dogs.
- Watch closely for changes: limping/stiffness/swelling/vision changes/unexplained weight loss or gain.
- If your breed has known genetic risks (like DCM), consider genetic testing if recommended by your vet.
- If you own a deep-chested breed at high risk of bloat—ask your vet about preventive gastropexy surgery options.
You can manage many health problems—or catch them before they become serious—with early intervention: smart diet choices from puppyhood onward; controlled exercise; keeping weight steady; regular veterinary care; staying alert to changes in behavior/gait/energy levels; seeking advice promptly if something seems off.
Your attention makes all the difference when it comes to helping your big friend stay healthy longer!
