Big dog breeds are popular pets for many people, as they provide companionship and love. However, before you choose a big dog breed, it is essential to consider the pros and cons.

This article will give you some information about the most popular big dog breeds so you can make an informed decision about which is right for you.

Big Dog Breeds

There are many types of big dog breeds, each with unique characteristics. Some of the most popular big dog breeds include:

·        Big Dog Breeds – English Mastiff

The English Mastiff is a large and powerful dog breed. Bred initially in England, they were used for hunting and guard work. Today, they are popular pets known for their gentle and good-natured personalities.

Standing over 30 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing over 200 pounds, the English Mastiff is one of the largest dog breeds in the world.

Despite their size, they are gentle giants who love spending time with their families. They are loyal and protective of those they love, making them excellent guard dogs. They are also patient and good with children, making them ideal family pets.

While they may seem like couch potatoes, English Mastiffs need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. A short walk or play session in the yard is enough to keep them happy.

They do not need much space to run and are content with a smaller yard or even an apartment if they get enough daily exercise.

English Mastiffs are relatively easy to train due to their intelligence and desire to please their owners. However, they can sometimes be stubborn and require patience and consistency when training. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods such as treats and praise.

The English Mastiff is a relatively healthy breed with a life expectancy of 10-12 years. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to specific health conditions such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat, and heart disease.

Regular vet checkups and screenings can help catch these conditions early and improve the dog’s chances of a long and healthy life.

Big Dog Breeds – Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is a massive big dog breeds with a long history. Though their size might make them seem intimidating, they are gentle giants who are great with children and other animals.

Native to Ireland, the Irish Wolfhound was initially bred to hunt wolves. But after wolves were hunted to extinction in Ireland, the breed’s numbers also dwindled.

Fortunately, dedicated breeders worked hard to bring the Irish Wolfhound back from the brink of extinction, and today they are once again one of the most famous giant dog breeds.

Standing anywhere from 28 inches to 36 inches tall at the shoulder, Irish Wolfhounds are truly impressive dogs. They have long, muscular legs and a deep chest, and their coat can be gray, brindle, black, red, or white.

Despite their large size, Irish Wolfhounds are quite gentle dogs. They are loving and affectionate with their families, and they adore children.

They also get along well with other animals, including cats (though they may want to chase smaller critters like squirrels).

Because of their gentle nature, Irish Wolfhounds make great family pets. However, they require a lot of exercise – at least an hour a day – so they’re not the best breed for couch potatoes.

If you’re active and looking for a big dog to join you on your adventures, an Irish Wolfhound might be the perfect fit.

·        Big Dog Breeds – Saint Bernard

Saint Bernard’s are one of the most well-known big dog breeds. They are also one of the oldest working dogs, having been used for centuries in the Swiss Alps to help find and rescue lost travelers.

Saint Bernards are gentle giants known for their loyalty and docile nature. They make great family pets, but their large size means they need a lot of space to run and play.

Saint Bernards are some of the biggest dogs, with males weighing over 160 pounds! Their thick fur coats keep them warm in even the coldest climates, making them excellent working dogs in mountain regions.

Monks originally bred Saint Bernards in Switzerland as guard dogs and companions, but their size and strength soon made them invaluable as search and rescue dogs in the Alps.

Today, Saint Bernards are still used as working dogs in some parts of the world, but they are more commonly found as cherished family pets.

These gentle giants are known for their loyalty and affection, and they make great playmates for children.

Saint Bernards need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy, so they are best suited for homes with large yards or access to parks or hiking trails. With proper care and training, a Saint Bernard can be a loyal and loving companion for life.

·        Big Dog Breeds – Newfoundland

Newfoundland dogs are big, furry, and lovable. They were initially bred in Newfoundland, Canada, as working dogs, and today they make great family pets.

Newfoundland dogs are large, strong dogs with thick coats of fur that can be black, brown, or white. They have a muscular build, a large head, a square muzzle, and small, triangular eyes.

Their ears are floppy, and their tail is long and curved. Males typically weigh between 130-150 pounds, while females tend to be slightly heavier at 200-250 pounds.

Newfoundland dogs are known for being gentle giants. They are loyal, loving, and patient, making them great companions for children.

They also have the instinct to protect those they love, which makes them excellent watchdogs. Newfoundland dogs are relatively easy to train, but they need plenty of exercises to stay healthy and happy.

If you’re looking for a big, cuddly dog to add to your family, a Newfoundland is a perfect choice.

Common Health Issues With Big Dog Breeds

While big dog breeds may seem imposing, they are often some of the most gentle and loving dogs you will ever meet.

However, because of their size, they are also prone to specific health issues that smaller breeds are not. Here are some common health issues to be aware of if you have a big dog breed.

Big Dog Breeds – Hip dysplasia

One of big dog breeds’ most common health issues is hip dysplasia. This is a condition where the hip joint does not form properly, causing pain and lameness.

It is more common in larger breeds, especially those that are predisposed to it genetically. If you think your dog may have hip dysplasia, take them to the vet for an X-ray to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment typically involves pain medication and weight management.

Big Dog Breeds – Bloat

Another common health issue for big dog breeds is bloat. Bloat occurs when the stomach twists on itself, cutting off blood flow and causing the stomach to fill with gas.

This can be a severe condition, and if not treated immediately, it can be fatal. Signs of bloat include restlessness, pacing, drooling, and an enlarged abdomen.

If you think your dog may be bloated, immediately take them to the vet. Treatment typically involves surgery to untwist the stomach and release the gas.

Big Dog Breeds – Arthritis

Arthritis is also a common health issue in big dog breeds. Arthritis is a degenerative joint disease that causes pain, stiffness, and inflammation. It is more common in older dogs but can occur at any age.

If you think your dog may have arthritis, take them to the vet for a diagnosis. Treatment typically involves pain medication and joint supplements.

Big Dog Breeds – Certain types of cancer

Big dog breeds are also more prone to certain types of cancer. The most common type of cancer in big dogs is hemangiosarcoma, a cancer of the blood vessels.

Other more common cancers in big dogs include bone cancer, lymphoma, and thyroid cancer. If you notice any suspicious lumps or bumps on your dog, immediately make an appointment with the vet. Early detection is key to successful treatment.

As you can see, there are some common health issues to be aware of if you have a big dog breed. However, this does not mean that your dog will necessarily experience any of these problems.

Many big dog breeds are perfectly healthy and live long, happy lives. Just keep an eye out for any signs of trouble and take them to the vet immediately if you think something may be wrong.

Leading Cause Of Death In Big Breed Dogs

Big-breed dogs are prone to several different health problems. Some of these conditions are more serious than others and can even be life-threatening.

As such, it’s essential to be aware of the leading cause of death in big-breed dogs so that you can take steps to protect your pet.

Big Dog Breeds – Cancer

One of the most common health problems in big dog breeds is cancer. Cancer is the leading cause of death in dogs over the age of two, and big breeds are especially susceptible.

Many types of cancer can affect dogs, but the most common in big breeds is osteosarcoma, a bone cancer. Other types of cancer that commonly affect big breeds include lymphoma, mast cell tumors, and hemangiosarcoma.

Big Don Breeds – Cardiovascular disease

Another leading cause of death in big-breed dogs is cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease refers to any condition that affects the heart or blood vessels.

Dogs’ most common types of cardiovascular disease include congestive heart failure, arrhythmias, and valve diseases. Again, big breeds are more prone to developing these conditions than smaller breeds.

Big Dog Breeds – Accidents

One final leading cause of death in big dog breeds is accidents. Unfortunately, big-breed dogs are more likely to be involved in accidents than smaller dogs due to their size and weight.

The most common accident that leads to death in big-breed dogs is being hit by a car. Other common accidents include drowning and choking.

As you can see, several different health problems can affect big-breed dogs. However, by being aware of the leading cause of death in big-breed dogs, you can take steps to protect your pet.

If you think your dog may be at risk for any of these conditions, talk to your veterinarian and get them checked out as soon as possible.

Big Dog Breeds – Conclusion

Big dog breeds are beautiful, loyal, and loving companions. However, it’s essential to be aware of the potential health problems that they may experience.

By being informed and taking steps to protect your pet, you can help ensure that your big dog enjoys a long and happy life.