TOP #136 Getting A Large Breed Dog: Medical Issues and Costs You Should Know

Theory of Pets Podcast

Hi there! Welcome to The Theory of Pets Podcast Episode number 136.

Today we got an awesome topic to discuss and I am super excited to go over it with you!

I think its important for everyone to understand what they're getting into with larger dog breeds when they want to adopt! I personally want a second dog and would like a larger breed.

I dug and did some research and discuss this with Dr. Kingsley today about what you need to be prepared for health issues wise if you do get a large breed. Fortunately, a lot of these issues can be prevented.

Enjoy!

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Joint Issues

Hip Dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia

Arthritis

Panosteitis

Neurological Problems

Wobbler syndrome

Heart And Organ Problems

Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Hypothyroidism

Aortic Stenosis

Bloat or GDV

Eye Problems

Entropion

Ectropion

Cherry Eye

Questions:

What kind of joint issues do larger dogs go through?

Neurological problems?

Heart and Organ?

Eye Problems?

It sounds like larger breeds are prone to more health issues that medium and smaller dogs, is that true?

Why do you think that is?

Let’s say someone is interested in getting a larger breed what kind of general caveats would you give them to help them make sure their dog lives a long and happy life?

Would you recommend they get pet insurance?

What kind of recommendations would you give for large dog breed owners to proof their house in a way that helps the large dog lives a long life?

Would you say less jumping off of things

Build/buy ramps instead of stairs where possible for home and car?

What is the most common cause of hip dysplasia from a vet’s perspective?

How much of nutrition and genetics play into it?

What is the cause of wobbler’s syndrome?

Why are bigger breeds more prone to GDV or bloat?

Is it bc of the level of their water bowls? Eating food too fast?

Some of these sound super preventable and some of these just sound like the roll of the dice.

What breeds are more prone to the roll of the dice health problems?

What is your recommendation for preventing the joint issues or I guess slowing it down?