6 Popular Large Dog Breeds and How to Take Care of Them

11/29/18

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Despite their reputation for being stern and tough, large breed dogs are some of the most playful and affectionate pets around. If you’re fortunate enough to own one of these lovable canines, odds are good you can attest to that fact. Large dogs are classified as breeds typically weighing more than 40 pounds and less than 100 pounds. And while they aren’t quite as big or strong as extra large (or giant) canine breeds, large breed dogs are powerful animals that excel in a variety of roles. Regrettably, the inherent strengths of large breed dogs come with a handful of needs and health issues that must be managed and addressed. That’s why it’s so important for the parents of large dogs to understand these factors before they become serious problems.

Here at Canna Companion, we’re proud to provide pet parents with all of the knowledge and resources they need to provide optimal health, comfort and care for their four-legged children. That’s why we produce Canna Companion, a unique hemp-based pet supplement that’s designed to enhance the supportive benefits of the cannabis plant while minimizing the “high-inducing” concentrations of THC. We also understand how much the parents of large breed dogs can worry about their pups, especially if they understand the behavioral and medical issues that can affect them. So today, to ensure your favorite canine stays healthy and happy, we’ll be discussing six incredibly popular large dog breeds and the best ways to care for them.

6 Popular Large Dog Breeds

1. The German Shepherd

As one of the most courageous, intelligent and loyal canine breeds in existence, German Shepherds are a joy to care for. Not only are these large-sized dogs powerful and agile, but they’re also incredibly fast learners, making them a natural candidate for rescue and police work. However, as the pet parent of a German Shepherd, it’s important to support their instinctual desire to serve. That means plenty of exercise and play to keep their powerful minds and bodies fully engaged. If you can meet these needs, a German Shepherd is a wonderful companion that will fill your days and nights with happiness, laughter and love.

2. The Golden Retriever

The iconic Golden Retriever is a well-balanced dog sporting a gorgeous golden coat. Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular canine breeds around due to their friendliness, compelling aesthetic and outstanding versatility. Not only do Golden Retrievers make perfect family companions, but they can also thrive as hunting, tracking, service or drug detection dogs. Like German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers feel a natural drive to serve and be useful, meaning that they can become hyper and destructive without proper stimulation. Abundant exercise and mental challenges (like puzzle treat dispensers) are the best ways to scratch these inherent itches and keep your Retriever in excellent shape.

3. The Collie

Collies are beautiful, strong and highly active dogs that pair athleticism and speed with exceptional intelligence. Their friendly nature makes collies a great choice as family pets who are also very effective herders. Bear in mind all Collies require significant daily exercise and social interaction to stay in peak condition. And as long as you have the time and energy to meet these needs, Collies will be an excellent companion for you.

4. The Alaskan Malamute

As one of the most energetic and hardy Nordic breed types, Alaskan Malamutes are unrivaled when it comes to pulling power, sacrificing speed for strength and endurance. Alaskan Malamutes are independent and strong-willed animals, but they’re also very friendly and fun-loving, meaning they can work very well as family dogs. Note that Malamutes don’t do well in warmer climates due to their thick coats; this breed might not be the best choice for your home if you live in states like California or Florida. It’s also worth noting Malamutes require heavy exercise to keep their abundant energy in check. Underworked Malamutes will quickly resort to more disruptive or destructive behaviors to keep themselves entertained. Regardless, owners who can keep up with their Malamute will swiftly fall in love with their implacable spirit and contagious friendliness.

5. The Bernese Mountain Dog

With a large, sturdy and strong build, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a veritable powerhouse that can easily herd other animals with its outstanding athleticism. In terms of personality, Bernese Mountain Dogs are very calm and easygoing, making them a solid choice as a family pet. Like many other large breed dogs, Bernese Mountain Dogs require significant physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and content. However, as long as you can meet these needs, you’ll find that Bernese Mountain Dogs are some of the most friendly and social pets you’ll ever meet.  

Bonus: Bernese Mountain Dogs love to relax with the family after a hard day’s play!

6. The Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is a large breed that’s tall, robust and powerful. While their natural aversion to strangers and protectiveness makes them natural guard dogs, Rottweilers are incredibly friendly and loving once they warm up to you, meaning they can work just as well as family pets. Regardless, it’s important for Rottweiler parents to manage the physical needs of their canine. Rottweilers are naturally energetic, and their assertive, domineering personality takes hold if they don’t receive enough physical activity and direction from their humans each day. Pet parents who can handle this energy will be happy to note that Rottweilers are just as lovable, loyal and friendly as other large breeds.

Supporting Your Large Dog’s Long-Term Health and Happiness

Due to their large size and intensive exercise needs, large breed dogs often struggle with mobility and joint discomfort associated with normal daily activities. After all, all of that running, jumping and playing puts incredible strain on your large dog’s joints. Fortunately, through consultations with your veterinarian and pet-friendly supplementation, you can mitigate this problem in your pup, keeping him or her in top form. Here at Canna Companion, we offer a special line of our Canna Companion supplement for large dog breeds. Not only does this formula support your dog’s immune system and promote optimal neurological function, but it also helps to reduce the joint discomfort associated with normal daily exercise and activity, supporting general joint health in the process. Just be sure to consult with your veterinarian before starting your large dog on any new supplement or medication regimen.

Contact Canna Companion Today

If you have any additional questions about how to care for your pet or want more information on large dog supplements and which will work best to safeguard your pup’s health, then be sure to call or message us. We’d be more than happy to meet you and discuss what we can do to keep your canine feeling their best for many years to come!

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