Big dogs have big needs. The following are great products that, for the most part, are meant for bigger dogs. The following list I’ve put together contains highly recommended products that can make life a little easier for both you and your large breed dog.
1. Orthopedic Foam Bed
Big dogs are more prone to bad joints as they age. So, they need beds that provide that much needed support they deserve. In my experience, dogs LOVE beds with a couch like ridge to either drape their head over or spill off the front end of the bed. There’re several types of bed inserts from orthopedic, memory foam, and cooling gel to meet your pet’s specific needs.
2. Slow Feed Bowl
Large breed dogs are prone to a condition known as bloat. It’s not 100% known what causes bloat. A theory is that it’s hereditary. I’ve seen firsthand that stress is another factor. If your dog likes to scarf down their food as if it’s their last meal, then they may also be at risk. When they eat fast, they intake air which isn’t good for their system. The answer, a slow feed bowl. This will help slow them down as they eat.
3. 3 in 1 Neater Feeder
Some dogs are sloppy eaters. Some feeders are specifically designed to help contain the mess. A 3 in 1 feeder can, first off, help contain the mess, second, is slightly elevated for easier eating, and third, has an option for a slow feed bowl if you have a fast eater. To further contain the mess, you can purchase a silicone mat to go up against the feeder and catch anything else that falls from their lips.
4. Car Ramp
Overweight or older dogs may have difficulties getting into the car. And picking them up might be difficult for you too. A ramp will help make things easier for both you and your dog. A ramp is easier than stairs as if allows your dog to walk up without them having to lift their feet for stairs. You can find extendable ramps and fold away ramps.
5. Washable Diapers
Small dogs generally use puppy pads when they can’t make it outside. But for large dogs that are already trained to potty outside and begin to have incontinence issues, or even heat cycles, washable diapers can be an effective solution. They are easy to put on and come in a variety of colors.
6. Durable Chew Toys
Bigger dog means the ability to do bigger damage to your house. If you have a super chewer, you’re going to want super tough toys to keep them busy. I personally moved away from chew toys and went for the real deal with raw knuckle bones for my own dog. It’s edible and I know my dog won’t swallow large pieces. But for those that are nervous about raw bones, there are plenty of plastic, rubber, or silicone alternatives.
7. Joint & Immunity Supplement
The bigger the dog the bigger the chance they will eventually develop joint issues. I’ve personally used the Nupro supplement, and my dog enjoyed the flavor in his food. The Nupro joint support supplement also has great reviews. It comes in a variety of canister sizes with scoopable powder you add to your dog’s food. It provides 16 vitamins 15 minerals 23 amino acids 9 enzymes and 4 essential fatty acids. Check it out!
8. Anti-Pull Harness
Big dogs that pull can be a recipe for disaster. Ideally, you can find a trainer to help solve the behavior. But until then an anti-pull harness can be a big help. I like simple models best. This type of harness is meant to throw your dog off balance as he pulls. This can help curb the bad behavior and make walking the dog a little more enjoyable.
I hope you enjoyed these picks as much as I enjoyed sharing them. Good luck spoiling your fur babies with all the wonderful fun products out there.
*Photo of Cane Corso courtesy of Mallory Destromp
