Large-breed dogs carry more weight on their frames, which puts extra stress on their joints, hips, and heart. Even a few extra pounds can make a big difference, leading to mobility issues, arthritis, or other health concerns down the road. Keeping your big pup at a healthy weight helps prevent these problems, keeps them active and playful, and can even add years to their life. Simply put, weight management isn’t just about numbers on a scale — it’s about giving your gentle giant the best chance to feel good, move freely, and enjoy every moment by your side. Here are some tried-and-true tips to make weight management easier for both you and your paw-some heavyweight:
1. Feed a High-Quality Large-Breed Diet
Big dogs have big needs! Choose foods made just for large breeds so they get the right balance of nutrients for strong bones and happy joints. Look for formulas with controlled calcium and phosphorus to support healthy growth, and ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin to keep joints moving comfortably. Great choices include Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed and Royal Canin Large Breed Dog Food — both crafted to keep your gentle giant healthy and full of energy.
- Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed
- Royal Canin Large Breed Dog Food
2. Measure Portions Carefully
We know it’s tempting to give a little extra, but keeping portions in check helps your big buddy stay fit and active. Follow the feeding guidelines on the bag and adjust based on how much your pup plays each day. Skip free-feeding and stick to scheduled mealtimes — your dog will thank you for the structure. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cup to be sure you’re serving the right amount. Tools like PetSafe Portion Control Feeders make it even easier to measure accurately every time.
PetSafe Portion Control Feeders
3. Include Joint & Weight-Supporting Supplements
Your big friend works hard just moving around, so giving their joints extra support is a kindness you can’t overlook. Glucosamine and chondroitin help keep cartilage healthy, and omega-3 fatty acids can ease inflammation. Supplements like VetriScience GlycoFlex and Nutramax Dasuquin are specially formulated for large breeds to keep tails wagging and steps light.
Nutramax Dasuquin
VetriScience GlycoFlex
4. Regular Exercise
Daily walks aren’t just for exercise—they’re bonding time. Large breeds need moderate movement every day, but gentle activities like swimming are fantastic for protecting joints while keeping muscles strong. Don’t forget your pup’s brain — puzzles, training, and playtime reduce boredom and keep them happy. Toys like KONG Extreme Chew Toys and tools like the FitBark Activity Tracker make it easy (and fun!) to keep your big dog active and engaged.
- KONG Extreme Chew Toys – keeps dogs active
- FitBark Activity Tracker – monitor daily movement
5. Monitor Weight & Body Condition
Your pup’s health starts with keeping an eye on their weight. Step on the scale together every month, and take a moment to check ribs, waistline, and belly. If something seems off, don’t wait — call your vet. Some insurance plans even cover weight-related visits, so check into Large-Breed Dog Insurance to help keep your buddy in top shape.
Affiliate Tip: Some insurance plans cover weight-related preventive visits—check out Large-Breed Dog Insurance.
6. Avoid Overfeeding Treats
Treat time is a highlight for any dog, but too many snacks can add unwanted pounds. Choose low-calorie treats for training and skip human food that adds extra calories without much nutrition. Zuke’s Mini Naturals are a favorite — small, tasty bites that keep training rewarding without packing on weight. Treat your pup, but keep it balanced so they stay happy and healthy.
- Use low-calorie treats for training
- Avoid human food, which can add excess calories
Affiliate Products:
Zuke’s Mini Naturals – low-calorie training treats
Keeping your big furry friend at a healthy weight is all about balance — good food, the right portions, helpful supplements, and plenty of gentle exercise. By caring for them this way, you’re not just protecting their joints and health, you’re helping them enjoy a longer, happier life together with you — and making the most of your large-breed dog insurance coverage.
Affiliate CTA: Keep your big dog fit and healthy—shop recommended foods, supplements, and insurance plans.
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