Large dogs are not only distinguished by their dimensions. They also have specific needs, especially in terms of food. Needs that must be met to ensure their good health.
Dogs belonging to large breeds are appreciated for their guarding and defense skills, but also for their good character. We cannot feed them just any thing. Their dietary needs are different from those of smaller dogs.
Ginat dogs
They are imposing, powerful, and particularly dissuasive. Large dogs often referred to as maxi dogs, are no less affectionate and dedicated. Most of them are even known for their extreme gentleness, especially towards children.
A dog is considered to be one of the large breeds when its weight is greater than or equal to 50 pounds. Beyond 90 pounds, we enter the category of giants.
Among the breeds best known may be mentioned the Airedale Terrier, the German Shepherd, the Belgian Shepherd, the Beauceron, the Tibetan Mastiff, the Briard, the Bobtail, the Bernese Mountain Dog, the Weimaraner, the Cane Corso, the Dogue de Bordeaux, the Siberian Husky, the Rottweiler, the Doberman Pinscher, the German Mastiff, Saint Bernard, the Pyrenean Mountain Dog, the Newfoundland, the Naples Mastiff or the Mastiff.
Large dogs have a number of specific and special needs. Their diet must be adapted to it both in terms of quantity and quality. Their health greatly depends on it.
The characteristics of large dogs
It is well known that large dogs grow very long and have large bones. The amounts of food they need are obviously greater than in small and medium-sized dogs. However, these maxi dogs are characterized by a slower metabolism. Their maturity is later since it is around 14 months on average.
Their digestion is quite sensitive, just like their joints which are often subjected to strong constraints due to their weight, but also certain anomalies that can appear in certain breeds (dysplasia of the hip or elbow, for example). Large dogs also face the risk of stomach twisting.
Meet their specific dietary needs
Giving your large dog a suitable diet first of all means ensuring that the fat intake is not excessive. This measure helps to avoid disrupting its growth and digestion. It also helps control weight gain and prevent health problems associated with canine obesity.
The diet of the large dog must also be done without excess calcium. Supplements given in any way may weaken Its bone stock and Its joints. It also involves more concentrated foods in reduced volumes to prevent stomach twists.
The choice can therefore be made on special large breed kibbles. They are developed to meet the specificities of large dogs, being more concentrated, digestible, and promoting chewing. It is advisable to give large dogs 2 meals per day, rather than just one. If the animal tends to eat too quickly, then it is better to split its rations more. Respect the dosages indicated on the packaging.
Finally, you must avoid feeding the dog just before or after exercise. It is better to wait a good hour, to reduce the risk of stomach torsion.
