A large-breed puppy (adult weight greater than 25 kg) weighs 80 times more at the age of one year than at birth, and can grow for up to two years. A small-breed puppy (adult weight less than 10 kg) increases its weight by only twenty times, and its growth ends at about ten months of age. These differences explain why malformation of the skeleton is encountered almost exclusively in large-breed dogs, and why food is so important during a large dog's growth period.
Heredity is a major factor in the bone and joint diseases of large breeds, such as hip dysplasia and osteochondrosis. Conscientious breeders eliminate any individuals carrying these genes from the breeding pool, however, such selection is difficult because the genes are not consistently expressed. In other words, a dog carrying the genes for hip dysplasia will not necessarily suffer from the disease, or transmit the gene to all of its progeny. Diet and exercise can also affect the expression of these favourable genes.
Owners and some breeders of large dogs often believe that if they overfeed their dog, it will grow to be a larger adult. This is not true! The dog will simply reach its adult size more quickly. This accelerated growth is not desirable, because it subjects the dog's immature skeleton to excessive stress, which may lead to bone and joint deformities. This is why veterinarian recommend that large-dog owners limit the amount of food given and use foods with a lower calorie count, thus not as rich in fats, during the growth period. Such practices are the best way to control growth and ensure proper skeletal development.
It is not rare for owners of large dogs to supplement their puppy's diet with calcium-rich supplements. This is justified only if the dog is receiving homemade food, i.e., food specially prepared for the dog with meat, vegetables and other starches as the base ingredients. If the puppy is eating a commercial growth formula, calcium supplementation is not only useless but dangerous as well. Research on the calcium needs of large breeds during growth has clearly shown that overconsumption of calcium can inhibit growth and cause bone and joint deformities. Commercial foods should not be supplemented with additional calcium.
Puppy foods are often high in proteins to ensure proper development of the muscles and the whole body, as well as the beauty of the coat. Contrary to popular opinion, the high levels of proteins in these foods have no adverse effects on growth or on the kidneys. Rather, they make the food more appetizing to the puppies and reduce the levels of starch (complex sugars present in grains and potatoes), which is not always well-tolerated by young puppies. Vitamin C supplements serve no purpose, and excessive consumption may adversely affect skeletal development.
A balanced exercise program is also very important for proper development in large-breed puppies. Lack of exercise (e.g., intensive training of puppies that are too young, rough games with other puppies) can result in impaired skeletal development and serious injury.
In conclusion, since heredity is an important factor in the growth problems of balanced food of large-breed dogs, buy puppies only from reputable breeders. Use a complete, balanced food specially formulated for large-breed puppies, and do not overfeed. Do not give calcium supplements. Ensure adequate exercise. And do not hesitate to ask your veterinarian's advice.
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