Small Breed Versus Large Breed

Size-Related Health Issues

Collapsed trachea often caused by the pressure that occurs when they jump while their collar is attached to a leash. Prevention tip: Use a harness instead of a collar Kneecap (patella) injuries from jumping too high. Prevention tip: Use ramps to help small dogs navigate higher surfaces like furniture and steps.

Hypoglycemia, a rapid drop in blood sugar, strikes smaller dogs more than larger ones, especially small breed pups.

Large breed dogs are at a higher risk for:

Hip dysplasia, where the hip joints don’t fit correctly, plagues bigger dogs more than small.

Ligament tears. When a heavier-bodied large dog lands from a jump or makes a sharp turn, it can can twist their legs and tear their ligaments.

Arthritis tends to affect large dogs more because they’re more susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia than smaller dogs.

Bloat. Deep-chested, large breed dogs can suffer from gastric bloat that may include torsion where the stomach twists and flips over on itself.

Hypothyroidism can affect all dogs,but is most commonly seen in larger breeds.

“Wobblers, ” or Spondylolisthesis is a hereditary malformation of neck vertebrae that can cause weakness and unsteady gait in some large dogs.

We all may be big dog lovers, but some of us literally love large dogs more than little ones, and vice versa. Whether our best pals are little cuties or gentle giants, there are pros and cons to parenting both.