What are the most common health issues for big dogs?

Large dogs are more prone to specific health concerns , but healthy lifestyles, regular veterinarian visits, and a good diet can help extend a dog's lifespan . Here are the most common health issues: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, arthritis, Wobbler syndrome, dilated cardiomyopathy, hypothyroidism, bloat, entropion, ectropion, and cherry eye.

What is the average lifespan for large dog breeds?

According to the American Kennel Club , the average lifespan for large dog breeds is eight to 12 years. Some dog breeds included in this category are German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, Great Danes, St. Bernards, and Mastiffs.

35 Large Dog Breeds That Make The Best Pets

Labrador Retriever

For more than three decades, the Labrador retriever was the most popular dog breed in America, and for good reason. These guys are lovable, kid-friendly, and eager to please.

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German Shepherd

A consistent favorite dog breed in America, the German shepherd is smart and courageous. These beautiful dogs will be extremely loyal and loving, but more aloof around strangers.

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Golden Retriever

Golden retrievers are extremely friendly and eager-to-please, which is why they're amazing family dogs and service dogs. If you're looking for an all-around good boy, you can't go wrong with a golden retriever.

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Boxer

These hardworking pups are active and playful but loyal and protective when it comes to their owners, which makes them the perfect blend. They have a reputation for being great with children as well as fearless.

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Bernese Mountain Dog

Berners are undeniably gorgeous, and these big dogs are happy to play and protect. They thrive in cold weather and are extremely hard workers, but also calm and gentle.

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German Shorthaired Pointer

These gundogs are energetic and active, so they're perfect for Southerners who love the outdoors. German shorthaired pointers are affectionate and have a strong bond with their families.

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Alaskan Malamute

These hardworking dogs had their origins as Arctic sled dogs, so they're strong and active. When they're trained as puppies, sweet Mals will grow up to be obedient dogs.

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Mastiff

These huge pups are extremely lovable, patient, and loyal. If you have the space to accommodate them, they'll be your very best protector and friend.

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Standard Poodle

Poodles are incredibly smart, so they're fun to train and great companions. Their fluffy, hypoallergenic coats can be styled to show off their athletic physique or left to grow curly.

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Newfoundland

These massive pups are well-known for their sweet and loving nature. Despite their size, they're amazing (and patient) with kids.

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Weimaraner

These silky-smooth dogs are known for their beautiful silver coats and obedience. They make wonderful companions for active families and hunters.

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Saint Bernard

One of the most universally recognized and well-loved breeds, Saint Bernards are big ole dogs just filled with love. They also are very patient with children.

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Collie

"Lassie" ensured the collie's spot as a beloved dog breed decades ago. These fluffy dogs are amazing with kids and need plenty of exercise, which go hand in hand.

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Dalmatian

Widely recognized as resident firehouse dogs, Dalmatians are smart and loyal. These sweet dogs are athletic and love to be active. They fit right in on a run or hike.

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Irish Setter

These delightful gun dogs are smart, outgoing, and a great playmate for kids. Their silky auburn coats are beautiful, too.

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Giant Schnauzer

These dogs are extremely smart and very protective. They have lots of energy and like to be put to work. Their sweet beards and eyebrows are so endearing.

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Rottweiler

Although Rottweilers get a reputation as aggressive or aloof, they're actually very loving. Their loyalty is strong and so is their playfulness.

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Australian Shepherd

With richly colored fluffy coats, these ranch dogs are stunningly beautiful and can't resist rounding up the kids for dinner. They're active, intelligent, and hardworking.

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Old English Sheepdog

These shaggy pups are just big bundles of love. They're gentle and patient with kids but make great watchdogs with their loud bark.

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Great Dane

These dogs are truly massive and owning a pup that big is a major commitment. But if you can accommodate such a large roomie, you absolutely should. They're gentle giants in every sense of the word and are so friendly, though their size may feel intimidating to young children.

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Chinese Shar-Pei

These wrinkly pups have a unique look with their blue-black tongues and big snouts. They're extremely loyal to their owners but suspicious of strangers, so it's good to get them socialized young.

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Bloodhound

These "detective dogs" use their amazing sense of smell to find just about anything. They're friendly, easygoing, and stubborn, and those big ears and droopy eyes make us melt.

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Siberian Husky

These graceful guys are extremely athletic and energetic, so you need to be able to give them the exercise they crave. They're outgoing (translation: not a watchdog) and can be slightly mischievous.

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Doberman Pinscher

This powerful and elegant breed is very intelligent and a superior watchdog. They are also loving companions and easy to train, though you should start early.

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Great Pyrenees

These big dogs are calm, smart, and so sweet. These gorgeous mountain dogs have all-white coats that set them apart.

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Chesapeake Bay Retrievers

This all-American dog is loyal, confident, and makes an excellent watchdog. This breed can sometimes have a mind of its own. Their wavy waterproof coats are major plus for outdoorsy or coastal families.

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Akita

These loyal dogs are of Japanese descent, where they're symbols of health, happiness, and long life. They're fiercely protective of their humans and love companionship.

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Irish Wolfhound

When we say large breeds, these guys are the largest of the pack. If you can commit to a dog this big, you're going to love these loyal, patient, and agreeable dogs.

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Vizsla

These beautiful and athletic gun dogs are the picture of elegance. They're extremely smart and form close bonds with their owners, so know you're getting a loyal friend for life.

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English Setter

These gorgeous hunting dogs are very affectionate and playful with their families. Sweet-natured and sensitive English setters prefer a gentle approach during training.

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Bearded Collie

The playful bearded collie is always up for a romp outdoors. They get on well with kids and pets and enjoy an active family life.

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Black And Tan Coonhound

A black, tan, and white coonhound on a grassy field barking. — Mary Swift/iStock/Getty Images Plus

This easygoing hound can be a couch potato but is always eager to follow you out on the trail. They're sweet with children and sociable with other dogs, making them an all-around great companion. Because of their strong prey drive, hounds must be kept on a leash or behind a fence.

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Chinook

This American original is both a rugged working dog and a devoted family pet. The Chinook may be a rare breed, but their owners love them for their gentleness with children and trainable, eager-to-please nature.

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German Long-Haired Pointer

This German gun dog has the handsome look of a setter and will gladly join you to chase squirrels or go for a swim. The lovable breed can be a calm and affectionate household companion or a tireless hunter, depending on the moment.

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Redbone Coonhound

Mellow and easygoing at home, the redbone coonhound makes a great family dog. Coonhounds like to alternate between a vigorous run or swim and total relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common health issues for big dogs?

Large dogs are more prone to specific health concerns, but healthy lifestyles, regular veterinarian visits, and a good diet can help extend a dog's lifespan. Here are the most common health issues: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, arthritis, Wobbler syndrome, dilated cardiomyopathy, hypothyroidism, bloat, entropion, ectropion, and cherry eye.
What is the average lifespan for large dog breeds?

According to the American Kennel Club, the average lifespan for large dog breeds is eight to 12 years. Some dog breeds included in this category are German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, Great Danes, St. Bernards, and Mastiffs.

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