All three of my dogs were seen by their veterinarian this week for their annual checkup. One of my dogs is 7 years old, and so the topic of joint support for Great Danes and other dogs was brought up. We had a wonderful discussion that involved several key points I just HAD to bring to the blog and share!
To put this simply, there is a good chance you are spending big money on joint support that is not helping your pet. Not all joint support options are created equal!
So if you are looking for the best joint support for your dog, start here.
Why some joint supplements are inferior
How to choose supplements that are safe and effective
Veterinary recommended joint support for big dogs
Types of joint supplements to choose from
Our recommendations
Author’s Note: we talk a LOT about Great Danes and other big dogs on our blog, however, this topic is helpful for all dog owners!
Veterinarian Information about Joint Support for Great Danes
My veterinarian is actually a husband + wife team. They are wonderful and we’ve been seeing (and trusting) them for years. Dr. K has been seeing patients in a clinical setting for decades, and mentioned that he’s been involved with 4 different practices over his career.
He’s seen some things, in other words.
He told me a story about how at one practice, there was no standard protocol for recommending joint support. Each veterinarian would basically throw brand names on the table based on the client’s budget or what they were already using. With time, there became a glaring discrepancy between some dogs.
In the process of watching this play out for many years, he found that some joint supplements were effective, and some weren’t. The key difference is NOTABLE. Check this out:
Consistently, he saw (and still sees) notable improvements in dogs fed joint supplements backed by legitimate trials and research, especially when compared to dogs fed other brands.
He said in many cases, switching to a better brand of joint support can even get some dogs off of Rimadyl and other anti-inflammatory drugs.
One may be inclined to think that all joint support is backed by research and science, but the unfortunate truth here is that many are NOT. You can’t just go by what the bag tells you, either.
Slick marketing doesn’t mean that a company has actually studied the product they are selling.
Read on, friends.
Not All Pet Supplements are Created Equal
Here are some interesting facts about the pet supplement industry:
a. Most joint support options are NOT supported by clinical trials.
b. The supplement industry is largely unregulated, so when you choose brands with no clinical backing, you’re basically stabbing in the dark when it comes to efficacy, bioavailability, and even safety.
This lack of oversight when it comes to the manufacture of pet supplements means that the market is flooded with a myriad of products, varying widely in quality and efficacy.
The absence of standardized guidelines for formulation and testing raises concerns about the consistency and safety of these supplements. While there are some ‘rules’ about making claims on the label, such guidelines are pretty easy to skirt around with good marketing. As pet owners, we are faced with tough decisions!
The brutal truth here is that it’s much less expensive for a company to invest in good marketing and pretty packages than it is for them to invest in dedicated research and stringent quality control.
Consequently, there is a risk of mislabeling, inaccurate dosage information, and even the inclusion of potentially harmful ingredients.
How to Choose the Best Joint Support for Great Danes
After our conversation today, I agree with my veterinarian whole-heartedly!
When it comes to food, supplements, and joint support…are we choosing brands backed by actual clinical research and evidence? Or are we choosing brands because they have good marketing and pretty packages?
This information sent me down a huge rabbit hole of course, but not before I asked him what he felt the best joint support for Great Danes was.
He said overwhelmingly, the ONLY truly safe, effective option where you get your money’s worth is Nutramax Labs.
You’ve probably heard of them, and may even be feeding their supplements! Nutramax makes Cosequin and Dasuquin products.
Thankfully, these products are widely available from Chewy, Amazon, and even Costco! For dogs with mobility issues, Dasuquin Advanced has some additional support to minimize damage to cartilage and is available only from the veterinarian.
Dog Joint Support with Clinical Trials
After this discussion with my veterinarian, I had to look into this.
All of us should be alarmed that so many companies are selling us supplements with no actual science behind them! As a matter of fact, I have found that many supplements on the market are packed by factories that make similar products for any brand with enough money to develop a decent marketing plan.
Anybody can put glucosamine into a bottle and say it’s good for our pets. That doesn’t mean it actually is.
I looked into the research done by Nutramax labs and found some incredible things.
For starters, they own and operate their own research and manufacturing facilities. This means that they have control over every step of the process.
They also published this PDF which outlines just some of the intensive research done into their ingredients and the efficacy of their product.
We should expect this same dedication to our pets health with ALL supplements and food choices we make.
Ingredients in Cosequin & Dasuquin
Of course, one may be inclined to read the ingredients in Cosequin and Dasuquin and believe that a more natural or holistic option would be a better choice.
You may be alarmed by the inclusion of scary words such as “natural flavors” and “magnesium stearate”.
Magnesium Stearate is commonly used in vitamins to keep ingredients or tablets from sticking together. It is considered a safe ingredient, especially when given at the extremely low dose offered in joint supplements.
Make sure that the sources you gain such information from are referencing legitimate science. Pseudoscience and alarmism sells, unfortunately.
The proven, researched active ingredients in Cosequin and Dasuquin products may include:
Glucosamine Hydrochloride
Sodium Chondroitin Sulfate
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
Manganese (Manganese Ascorbate)
Avocado/Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU) Powder
Green Tea Extract
Each product is slightly different. Dasuquin is the more advanced form of Cosequin and includes additional support (usually for cartilage).
Don’t Waste Your Money on Snake Oil
Holistic influencers like Dr. Karen Becker and Dr. Judy Morgan have made their millions selling untested, unproven supplements and the concept that ‘natural’ is healthier.
Make no mistake. Their online stores are filled with generic products that are co-packed in big factories. There is very little science, research, or trials behind these supplements.
The careful use of words and packaging that appears homemade lead buyers to believe that these choices are wholesome, organic, and better quality.
It’s snake oil and the solid majority of practicing veterinarians will not recommend their products.
How to Find Reputable Pet Food & Supplement Brands
The easiest way to find product recommendations that are backed by research and evidence is to talk to your veterinarian.
They see 100’s of pets every month and know what works, consistently!
You may be inclined to believe that your veterinarian is recommending products because of kickbacks, but that is a dangerous myth. Most of the people who promote that wildly incorrect idea aren’t qualified at all, and may even be practicing veterinary medicine without a license.
Whether we like it or not, a clinically researched food or joint support brand is going to be infinitely safer and healthier for our pets than one that only sounds more ‘wholesome’ on paper.
Veterinarians recommend dog food brands and products that meet their personal standards for safety, efficacy, science, and quality control.
The Best Joint Support for Great Danes
After deep diving into this topic myself, I will now only use and recommend the same joint support that my experienced and highly qualified veterinarian does.
The following options are safe, healthy, and effective for Great Danes and other big dogs:
What is the Difference Between Cosequin & Dasuquin
I used to be VERY confused about this myself, so here is the clarification:
Cosequin primarily contains glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, key components that support joint health by promoting cartilage development and reducing inflammation.
Dasuquin, often considered a more advanced version, incorporates the same foundational ingredients but adds ASU (avocado/soybean unsaponifiables), which is believed to further support joint function and help maintain cartilage.
This addition is thought to provide enhanced anti-inflammatory effects, potentially making Dasuquin a more comprehensive solution for dogs with existing joint issues.
While both supplements aim to improve joint mobility and alleviate discomfort, the inclusion of ASU in Dasuquin represents a notable distinction between the two. Pet owners should consider their dog’s specific needs, the severity of joint problems, and consult with a veterinarian to determine which supplement to purchase.
Did you know that the Merle Great Dane was not accepted as a standard AKC color until 2019? It’s true! If you ask us, that’s a bit wild considering the fact that the merle coat is a naturally occurring color in Great Danes. Merles occur without mixing color families (more on this later).
Merle Great Danes are very similar to the Harlequin Great Dane, however, instead of having a white base coat, they have a grey one. The merle gene is actually necessary for the Harlequin coat to show up on Great Danes, so this makes a lot of sense.
Merle has become a popular coat pattern in a lot of breeds, however it’s important to note that it only naturally shows up in a few! To put this bluntly, if you have a merle poodle, a merle Frenchie, or a merle chihuahua, your pet has been crossed with something else in a past generation. Danes are special though; merle is a natural coat pattern that goes back to the origins of the pedigree.
Can Merle Great Danes be Shown?
Yes!
On January 1st, 2019, the Great Dane breed standard was updated to include merle coats and the American Kennel Club began to allow entries. This change came after decades of argument over whether or not Merle should be celebrated and included in the written breed standard for Great Danes.
Of course, to us, the color is beautiful and striking. But before the standard was updated, many breeders and preservationists considered merle to be problematic. There are many genetic implications behind spotted coats like this, and the actual science of it was not well understood.
Merle puppies are a natural effect of breeding for Harlequin puppies and they occur in harlequin color family litters no matter what. As a matter of fact, many breeders get more merles than they do harlequin!
Many of those Merle puppies had gorgeous structure and temperament, but couldn’t be shown. Breeding them was greatly discouraged, no matter how nice they were otherwise. Talk about frustrating. So when the breed standard was updated to include merle, it was a BIG deal.
It was advancement in genetic technology that allowed researchers to learn about how and why the merle gene affects Great Danes, including its role in the creation of the Harlequin coat pattern.
Color – A pale gray to dark gray merle base color with black torn patches within.
Patterns and Markings – May be a Solid Merle (white on chest and toes permissible) or a Merle with a Mantle Pattern ( solid merle blanket extending over the body; merle skull with a white muzzle; white blaze is optional ; whole or partial white neck; a white chest; white on whole or part of the forelegs and hind legs ; white tipped merle tail. A small break in the blanket is acceptable. Black pigment may be seen on the skin in the white areas
Merle Great Danes are mostly grey with a lot of black patches and dogs, basically. Some of them have merle all over, while others have the mantle coat pattern.
The mantle merle coat pattern means that in addition to the grey with black fur, they have a white collar, white chest, white tip on the tail, white feet, white muzzle, and a white blaze on the head. This comes from mixing merle or harlequin and mantle coat patterns, and is considered an ideal marking.
Here is an image that illustrates the different merle coats seen naturally in Great Danes. Notice how similar some of them are to the black and white mantle Great Danes! Also, notice how they might look like a harlequin Great Dane if their base coat was white instead of grey.
Do Merle Great Danes have Health Problems?
Merle Great Danes, like any other dog breed, may be prone to certain health issues, although coat color itself is not inherently linked to health problems.
The merle gene, which contributes to the distinctive coat pattern, is associated with a higher risk of deafness and vision impairments in some dogs, particularly those with a double merle genotype (when both parents carry the merle gene). This can happen when uneducated or unethical breeders intentionally pair two dogs together that truthfully, shouldn’t be.
Responsible breeding practices, including health screenings and avoiding certain genetic combinations, can help mitigate or even eliminate these risks. It’s crucial for potential Merle Great Dane owners to choose reputable breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs, conduct genetic coat color and OFA health testing, and adhere to ethical breeding standards.
A Double Merle Great Dane is the result of breeding two dogs that both carry the merle gene.
The merle gene, responsible for the striking merle and harlequin coat pattern in Great Danes, can have detrimental effects when inherited from both parents.
In a Double Merle, the gene is expressed twice, leading to a higher likelihood of serious health issues such as deafness, vision impairments, and other congenital defects. These health concerns stem from the disruption of pigmentation patterns during embryonic development.
Responsible breeders actively work to avoid producing Double Merle puppies, as the associated health risks can significantly impact the well-being of the dogs.
What is a Merlequin Great Dane?
While the genetic basis of the ‘merlequin’ Great Dane is often contentious, this mish-mashed word is used to describe Great Danes that look like Harlequins but instead of having torn black patches, ALL of their patches are merle. A true merlequin puppy will have NO solid black patches (only merle), and a pure white coat covering most of their body.
This image below from Show Sight Magazine is the best example of a “merlequin” I’ve ever seen. Unlike many double-merle Great Danes, thankfully this one appears to have good structure (and hopefully health, too!).
How to Find Merle Great Dane Puppies for Sale
Finding Merle Great Dane puppies for sale requires careful research and consideration to ensure a responsible and reputable source.
Start by seeking breeders who specialize in Great Danes and have a positive reputation within the canine community. The best place to start is by connecting with breeders who are members of the breed club. You can use their Great Dane breeder search tool HERE.
While many of the breed club members may not have litters or puppies available, they may be able to refer you to other breeders who do. Their referral will be of a much higher caliber than anything you can find on social media or through an internet search. This is a little known secret and one we recommend utilizing if you want a merle Great Dane with exceptional health and a wonderful temperament.
Always verify that the Great Dane breeder you’ve found has complete the following tests on BOTH parents:
OFA Hips
OFA Heart
OFA Thyroid
OFA Eyes
BONUS: PennHip, IMGD, and Coat Color Testing
You must visit www.ofa.org and search for the breeder and the parents to see these health testing results. If they aren’t published or don’t exist for the parents of the puppy you are interested in, your breeder is unethical and is cutting corners on health. Do not let them buy you with misinformation about how they feel those tests are “unnecessary”.
What is a Blue Merle Great Dane?
Some people reference the “blue” merle Great Dane, and this is where coat patterns start to go off the rails a little bit.
Blue is a recognized coat color for Great Danes. However, for genetic and health reasons, the most ethical practice is currently to stay within color families. This means that technically speaking, blue Great Danes should only be bred with other blue Great Danes.
However, many breeders love to mix up blue dogs into their pedigree because it results in striking lighter coat patterns.
If you have a Blue Merle Great Dane puppy, it is no doubt a beautiful dog with a lighter coat than a traditional AKC merle that meets the breed standard. Blue Merle occurs when a breeder mixes the blue Great Dane color family with the merle + harlequin genetics. This is a debatable practice that has some valid arguments.
Here are the accepted Great Dane color families. In general, breeders should stay within these families when making breeding decisions. There are times, however, when brindle or fawn shows up in a Harlequin + Black litter! This can happen if the black parent dog had come from brindle + fawn genetics instead of harlequin genetics.
Harlequin, Black, Mantle, Merle
Brindle, Fawn, Black
Black
Blue
There are times when mixing color families is necessary for the health and structure of a pedigree. However, entirely too many breeders do this solely in pursuit of unique, designer colors and will completely disregard major considerations concerning health and temperament to do it. That practice is unethical for a number of reasons; so we do not recommend seeking out Great Dane puppies in off-standard colors.
If the day ever comes that we find a breeder who focuses on “designer” colors and has well-built healthy dogs, but is ALSO receiving 3rd party feedback and completing all OFA health tests, this recommendation may change. Until then? Steer clear.
Are Merle Great Danes Rare?
Merle Great Danes are NOT rare.
No breeder should charge extra for you to purchase a Great Dane in a merle coat pattern of any type.
Leave a comment below, we’d love to hear from you! Do you have a merle Great Dane?
Is my dog in pain? This is one nagging question that I have asked myself ever since Gigi, my Great Dane, was diagnosed with Wobblers Syndrome on her third birthday last year. Wobblers Syndrome, also known as cervical spondylomyelopathy or cervical vertebral instability, is a condition that affects the spine of dogs, particularly large breeds like Great Danes, Doberman Pinschers, and Mastiffs. It can lead to various neurological issues, including pain and difficulty moving.
Lets discuss the things that I have done to help make sure she lives a comfortable life, despite having a chronic condition.
What is Wobblers and Is My Dog in Pain?
Wobblers Syndrome is a complex condition that primarily affects the cervical (neck) region of a dog’s spine. It’s characterized by the compression or instability of the spinal cord due to abnormalities in the vertebrae. These abnormalities can cause pain, weakness, and difficulties with coordination in affected dogs.
If your dog has been diagnosed with Wobblers Syndrome, it’s essential to monitor their condition closely for signs of pain. Some common indicators of pain in dogs with Wobblers include:
Lameness or difficulty walking: Dogs with Wobblers may exhibit a wobbly or unsteady gait, hence the name of the syndrome.
Neck pain: They may be sensitive or painful when you touch their neck or head.
Reluctance to move: Dogs in pain often avoid moving or may be hesitant to go up or down stairs or jump onto furniture.
Changes in behavior: Look for signs of restlessness, aggression, or depression, which can be indications of pain.
Loss of appetite: Pain can reduce a dog’s appetite, leading to weight loss.
Whining or vocalization: Dogs may vocalize or whine when they are in pain.
How Can I Help Make Sure My Dog Is Not in Pain?
If your dog has Wobblers Syndrome or any other chronic condition, there are several ways you can help ensure they are comfortable and pain-free. Here are some key areas to focus on. I have now had a neurological / special needs dog for 1.5 years, and these are the main things that have worked for us!
Make Lifestyle Changes and Implement Them All the Time!
Your lifestyle matters when you have any dog, but even more so when you have a dog who may experience daily pain or discomfort.
Be prepared to make necessary adjustments to your home, routine, and activities to accommodate your dog’s needs. Providing a loving and supportive environment, along with the appropriate medical care and therapies, will not only help alleviate their pain but also allow you to cherish the precious moments you share with your loyal and resilient friend. Remember, the bond you share with your dog can grow stronger through these challenges, making every effort you invest in their well-being well worth it.
Lifestyle Tips:
Nail Maintenance:Keep your dog’s nails trimmed to prevent them from dragging their paws, which can exacerbate pain.
Car Ramps: Use ramps to help your dog get in and out of the car or on and off elevated surfaces with ease.
Exercise: Work with your veterinarian to develop an appropriate exercise plan that keeps your dog active without putting too much strain on their spine.
Rugs: It can be very difficult for a dog to walk on slippery floors, so laying rugs down helps them tremendously!
Nutrition plays a pivotal role in managing the well-being of a dog with Wobblers Syndrome.
Choosing the right diet is essential to ensure your canine companion receives the necessary nutrients to support their overall health and minimize discomfort. Consider adding supplements like Omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine to promote joint health and reduce inflammation.
Opt for a high-quality diet specially formulated for large breed dogs, as their nutritional needs may differ from smaller breeds. In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend a specialized diet tailored to your dog’s specific condition. Proper nutrition not only contributes to your dog’s physical health but also plays a role in their mental and emotional well-being, helping them lead a more comfortable and fulfilling life despite the challenges posed by Wobblers Syndrome.
Omega E and Glucosamine: Consider supplements like Omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine, which can support joint health and reduce inflammation.
High-Quality Diet: Feed your dog a high-quality diet formulated for large breed dogs. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations.
Veterinarian-Approved Diet: In some cases, a specialized diet prescribed by your vet may be necessary to manage your dog’s condition effectively.
Medication Is Not Always Bad
Medicating your beloved dog can indeed be a daunting decision, often accompanied by worries about side effects or long-term consequences.
However, for dogs dealing with chronic pain, medication can be a true blessing in disguise. It’s essential to recognize that many veterinary medications have been thoroughly researched and are carefully administered to provide relief while minimizing adverse effects. These treatments can significantly enhance your dog’s quality of life by alleviating discomfort, improving mobility, and even preventing further damage or deterioration. Consulting with a trusted veterinarian who specializes in your dog’s condition can help ease your concerns and guide you toward the most suitable medication options, ultimately allowing your furry friend to enjoy a more comfortable and pain-free existence. In many cases, medication can be the key to unlocking a happier and healthier life for your canine companion.
Finding a Veterinarian You Love: Establish a strong relationship with a veterinarian who specializes in treating dogs with neurological issues.
Trusting the Experts: Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for medications that can help manage pain and inflammation.
Using Prescription Medication: In severe cases, prescription medications may be necessary to alleviate your dog’s pain.
Use CBD to Help Provide Comfort and Ease Discomfort
CBD (Cannabidiol) has gained considerable attention in recent years as a potential aid in managing pain and discomfort in dogs, including those with chronic conditions like Wobblers Syndrome. Derived from the cannabis plant, CBD is non-psychoactive and known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. We have very positive results when using CBD products designed specifically for dogs for Gigi’s plan to keep her happy.
These products, such as those from reputable brands like Pet Releaf, can help reduce discomfort, inflammation, and anxiety in dogs, ultimately improving their quality of life. When used responsibly and under professional guidance, CBD can be a valuable addition to your dog’s pain management strategy.
We take her PetReleaf with us to appointments so that it can help provide comfort for her as well as keep her stress levels down.
CBD Tips:
Pet Releaf CBD: Some pet owners have found that CBD products, like those from Pet Releaf, can provide pain relief and reduce inflammation in dogs. Consult with your veterinarian before using any CBD products for your dog.
Modern-Day Therapies That We Have Done That Help
Modern-day therapies have played a significant role in improving the comfort and well-being of Gigi, as well as some others who are dealing with conditions like Wobblers Syndrome.
Acupuncture, a traditional practice adapted for pets, has shown promise in managing pain and enhancing overall health. Laser therapy offers a non-invasive approach to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, while veterinary chiropractors can address mobility issues, providing much-needed relief. Embracing new and innovative treatments, such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy, showcases the commitment to exploring every avenue to enhance your dog’s quality of life. These modern therapies, when integrated into a comprehensive care plan, can make a remarkable difference in the comfort and happiness of dogs living with chronic pain.
Gigi is inside of this hyperbaric oxygen therapy tank! It was so cool! Read more about this form of therapy here.
Acupuncture: Alternative therapies like acupuncture can help manage pain and improve your dog’s overall well-being.
Laser Therapy: Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that can reduce inflammation and pain.
Chiropractor: A veterinary chiropractor may help improve your dog’s mobility and comfort.
Trying New Therapies: Don’t be afraid to explore new and innovative therapies like hyperbaric oxygen treatment, which may offer additional relief.
Making the Most Out of Every Moment
Living with a dog diagnosed with Wobblers Syndrome can be challenging, but it’s important to focus on making the most out of every moment you have together. Spend quality time with your dog, engage in activities they enjoy, and ensure they receive plenty of love and attention. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian are crucial to monitor their condition and make adjustments to their treatment plan as needed.
This photo is a picture of me and Gigi walking around outside. She really loves to go for walks, and I treasure every moment with her!
In conclusion, while Wobblers Syndrome can be a source of concern for dog owners, there are many ways to help manage your dog’s pain and improve their quality of life. By staying informed, working closely with your veterinarian, and exploring various treatment options, you can provide your beloved pet with the comfort and care they deserve.
Hello, and welcome to my blog about 5 ways to boost joint health in big dogs!
As a big dog owner myself, I know that us big dog-parents make sure that their health and well-being are always a top priority. If you have a big dog, you know that their joints can sometimes face added strain due to their size and weight. That’s why it’s essential to pay special attention to their joint health. In this blog post, we’ll explore five practical and effective ways to boost joint health in big dogs. From understanding the importance of joint health to implementing low-impact lifestyle choices, exploring supplements and medications, considering different forms of therapy, and taking preventive measures, we’ll cover it all.
So, let’s dive in and discover how we can ensure optimal joint function for our canine companions. Join me on this journey to enhance joint health in big dogs!
My ‘Why’ for Joint Health in Big Dogs
My girl, Gigi, is a beautiful black Great Dane who was diagnosed with Wobbler’s Syndrome, a condition that affects her spine and causes instability and weakness in her hind limbs. Despite the challenges she faces, Gigi’s spirit shines through, and her resilience inspires everyone she meets.
When I first learned about her diagnosis, I was filled with worry and uncertainty about what the future held for us.
However, over time, I realized that Gigi’s journey with Wobbler’s Syndrome is not defined by limitations, but rather by the boundless love, support, and determination she exudes every day. She has taught me invaluable lessons about compassion, adaptability, and the true meaning of strength. Together, we have embarked on a path of discovery, seeking the best treatments and therapies to enhance her quality of life. Gigi has shown me that life’s challenges can be overcome with patience, perseverance, and an unwavering spirit.
Through her story, I hope to raise awareness about Wobbler’s Syndrome and offer support and encouragement to others who may be navigating similar circumstances. Gigi may have Wobbler’s, but she is so much more than her diagnosis. She is a beacon of hope, a constant reminder to embrace life’s uncertainties, and a cherished member of our family.
Understand the Importance of Joint Health and How to Boost Joint Health in Large Breed Dogs
When it comes to my big dog’s joint health, I’ve come to understand just how crucial it is for his overall well-being. Those large breeds can put a lot of stress on their joints, and it’s up to us as responsible pet owners to ensure we’re doing everything we can to support them. Joint health plays a vital role in their mobility, comfort, and quality of life.
That’s why I’ve made it a priority to educate myself on how to boost joint health in my big dogs. From providing a nutritious diet to implementing exercise strategies that promote joint strength and mobility, I’ve learned that there are several practical steps we can take.
By understanding the importance of joint health and taking proactive measures, we can help our big dogs lead happier, more active lives. So, let’s dive into some effective ways to boost joint health in our large breed dogs and give them the support they deserve.
1. Keep a Low Impact Lifestyle
What is a ‘low impact lifestyle’? Well, let me explain…
High impact happens when your dog
Control and Monitor their Weight
Control and Monitor Weight: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for reducing joint stress and minimizing the risk of joint damage in dogs. Excess weight puts additional strain on their joints, leading to discomfort and increased chances of developing conditions like osteoarthritis.
Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate weight for your dog’s breed and size, and follow a balanced diet and portion control to help them maintain an optimal weight.
Choose Low-Impact Exercise: Opt for exercises that are gentle on the joints, such as walking, swimming, or controlled play sessions. Avoid high-impact activities like jumping or intense running, especially on hard surfaces, as they can be hard on your dog’s joints. Regular, low-impact exercise helps keep the joints mobile, strengthens supporting muscles, and improves overall fitness.
Provide Comfortable Resting Areas: Ensuring your dog has a soft and supportive bed or mat to rest on is essential for joint health. Look for orthopedic beds specifically designed to alleviate pressure on joints. These beds provide cushioning and support, relieving stress on the joints during rest and sleep.
Use Ramps and Stairs: Minimize the strain on your dog’s joints by providing ramps or stairs for them to access elevated areas, such as the car or furniture. Jumping up or down from heights can be particularly harsh on their joints, especially for larger breeds. Ramps and stairs offer a safer and more joint-friendly way for them to navigate these areas.
Implement Gentle Massage and Stretching: Regularly incorporating gentle massage and stretching into your dog’s routine can help improve joint flexibility, relieve muscle tension, and promote overall joint health.
Gentle massage can increase blood flow to the joints, providing nourishment and promoting healing. Additionally, gentle stretching exercises can help maintain joint mobility and reduce stiffness.
However, it’s important to learn proper massage and stretching techniques from a professional or under the guidance of your veterinarian to ensure you’re applying the right pressure and avoiding any potential injury. Always pay attention to your dog’s comfort levels and stop if they show any signs of discomfort during the process.
Long nails can lead to various issues, including poor posture, joint misalignment, and increased strain on their limbs. Regular nail trimming is essential to prevent these problems and promote overall joint well-being. When a dog’s nails are kept short, it helps distribute their weight evenly across their paws, reducing the pressure exerted on their joints during movement. This, in turn, minimizes the risk of joint discomfort, inflammation, and potential injuries.
Additionally, shorter nails provide better traction and stability, allowing your big dog to move with ease and confidence. Make sure to establish a consistent nail care routine, using appropriate nail clippers or seeking professional help from a groomer or veterinarian if needed. By prioritizing regular nail maintenance, you can contribute significantly to your dog’s joint health and overall mobility.
3. Explore Supplements and Medications for Joint Support
Next, exploring supplements and medications for joint support is of utmost importance!
Use the tools available to you
When it comes to supporting joint health in dogs, supplements and medications can be valuable tools.
These options provide additional support to promote joint function, alleviate discomfort, and potentially slow down the progression of joint-related conditions. It’s important to note that before incorporating any supplements or medications into your dog’s routine, you should consult with your veterinarian to ensure they are appropriate for your dog’s specific needs and to determine the correct dosage.
One popular type of supplement for joint support in dogs is Fera Pet Joint Supplement, which we love!
Fera Pet Joint Supplements have become a staple in our household, and we absolutely love them! When it comes to supporting joint health in our beloved dogs and cats, Fera offers a range of supplements that have proven to be highly effective.
Their joint support supplements work wonders in relieving occasional joint stiffness and maintaining the health of cartilage, connective tissue, and overall joint function. One of the key ingredients, glucosamine, plays a vital role in maintaining the synovial fluid that lubricates the joints. This helps to reduce friction and promote smooth movement.
Additionally, the inclusion of green lipped mussel in their formulas supports joint mobility, ensuring our big dogs can stay active and on the go.
Ingredients to look for:
Ingredients to look for in a joint supplement range from organic turmeric, glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, green-lipped mussel to collagen, hyaluronic acid, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants.
Ingredients in Fera Pet Joint Supplements:
Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients in Fera Pet Joint Supplements:
Organic Turmeric: Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce joint inflammation and relieve pain associated with joint conditions.
Glucosamine: Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound found in the body that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy cartilage. It supports the production of glycosaminoglycans, which are essential for maintaining the structure and elasticity of joint tissues.
Chondroitin: Chondroitin is another compound naturally found in the body, specifically in cartilage. It helps maintain the structural integrity of cartilage, improves joint mobility, and reduces inflammation.
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane): MSM is a sulfur compound that is often used in joint supplements for its anti-inflammatory properties. It may help reduce pain and swelling in the joints and support overall joint health.
Green-lipped Mussel: Green-lipped mussel is a shellfish native to New Zealand and is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects and may help improve joint function and alleviate joint discomfort.
Collagen: Collagen is a protein that provides structural support to various tissues in the body, including cartilage. Supplementing with collagen can help maintain the integrity and flexibility of joints.
Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid is a natural component of synovial fluid, which lubricates the joints. It helps enhance joint mobility, reduce friction, and support overall joint health.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, typically derived from fish oil, have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce joint inflammation and pain. They also support overall joint health and mobility.
Antioxidants: Antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, selenium, and grape seed extract help protect joint tissues from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. They can help reduce inflammation and support the overall health of joints.
Medications for Dog Joint Pain
In addition to supplements, there are various prescription and over-the-counter medications available for joint support in dogs. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often prescribed to manage pain and reduce inflammation associated with joint conditions like arthritis. It’s crucial to use NSAIDs under the guidance of a veterinarian, as they can have potential side effects.
Be careful not to give your dog ibuprofen that is meant for humans, as they can experience ibuprofen poisoning.
Other prescription medications, such as corticosteroids or disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs (DMOADs), may be recommended in more severe cases or specific joint-related conditions. These medications aim to manage pain, slow down joint degeneration, and improve overall joint function.
Remember that supplements and medications should be used as part of a comprehensive joint care plan, which may include other strategies such as weight management, exercise modification, and physical therapy. Your veterinarian will be able to guide you in selecting the most appropriate supplements or medications based on your dog’s specific needs, overall health, and the underlying joint condition they may have.
4. The Different Forms of Therapy for Joint Support
There are also an abundance of different therapies that can help dogs joint’s stay strong. Some options include water therapy, acupuncture, laser therapy, massage, and physical therapy. Let’s explore these different forms of therapy for joint support in dogs.
Water Therapy in Dogs:
Water therapy, also known as hydrotherapy, involves using water as a medium for exercise and rehabilitation. It can be particularly beneficial for dogs with joint conditions or mobility issues. Water therapy allows for low-impact exercise, which helps strengthen muscles, improve joint range of motion, and reduce pain and inflammation. Examples of water therapy for dogs include swimming in a controlled pool or using an underwater treadmill.
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. It is believed to stimulate the flow of energy, or “Qi,” and promote healing. In the context of joint support, acupuncture can help reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle tension, improving overall joint function. It may also stimulate the release of endorphins, which can provide pain relief.
Laser therapy, also known as cold laser or low-level laser therapy (LLLT), utilizes specific wavelengths of light to promote healing and reduce pain and inflammation. The laser is applied directly to the affected area, and the light energy penetrates the tissues, stimulating cellular regeneration and improving blood flow. Laser therapy can be effective in managing joint conditions and promoting joint mobility.
Massage therapy involves the manipulation of soft tissues to improve circulation, reduce muscle tension, and promote relaxation. When it comes to joint support, massage can help increase blood flow to the affected area, reduce pain and inflammation, and improve joint flexibility. It can also provide overall relaxation and stress relief for your dog.
Physical therapy involves a range of exercises and techniques designed to improve mobility, strength, and flexibility. A licensed physical therapist or a veterinarian trained in rehabilitation can create a customized program for your dog, targeting specific joint issues. Physical therapy may include exercises to strengthen supporting muscles, range of motion exercises, balance training, and other modalities like heat or cold therapy.
Take Preventive Measures to Minimize Joint Stress and Injury
Lastly, it is important to take preventative measures to minimize joint stress and injury. Taking preventive measures to minimize joint stress and injury is crucial for maintaining your dog’s joint health. By being proactive, you can help reduce the risk of developing joint conditions and promote long-term joint well-being. Here are some preventive measures to consider.
Regular Exercise for your Dogs
Provide Regular Exercise: Regular exercise is important for keeping your dog’s muscles strong, supporting joint stability, and maintaining overall fitness. However, it’s crucial to choose activities that are appropriate for your dog’s age, breed, and physical condition. Avoid high-impact exercises that can strain the joints and opt for low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or controlled play.
Use Proper Training Techniques: When engaging in activities such as walking, running, or playing with your dog, use proper training techniques to avoid sudden stops, turns, or jumps that could strain the joints. Train your dog to follow commands and respond to cues to prevent them from engaging in activities that could put excessive stress on their joints.
Provide Joint-Friendly Surfaces: Ensure that your dog’s living environment provides joint-friendly surfaces. Provide them with comfortable bedding or dog beds that offer good support and cushioning. Avoid hard or slippery surfaces that could increase the risk of joint injuries.
Consider Joint Support Supplements
Consider Joint Support Supplements: As mentioned earlier, joint support supplements can be beneficial in promoting joint health and reducing the risk of joint problems. Discuss with your veterinarian whether your dog could benefit from the addition of joint supplements to their diet.
Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Schedule regular veterinary check-ups for your dog, especially as they age. Routine examinations can help detect early signs of joint issues and allow for prompt intervention. Your veterinarian can provide guidance on joint health, offer preventive measures, and recommend appropriate treatments or therapies if needed.
By implementing these preventive measures, you can help minimize joint stress and injury in your dog. Remember that each dog is unique, and their specific needs may vary. Consulting with your veterinarian will ensure that you are taking the most appropriate preventive measures based on your dog’s individual circumstances and overall joint health.
Many pet owners share a growing concern about the prevalence of cancer in dogs, with frequent reports of osteosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma, and skin cancer. The question on many minds is: what is causing this surge in canine cancer cases? If there are so many dogs getting cancer, why are veterinarians still prescribing treatments that could cause it? Could it be linked to factors such as vaccines, flea and tick medications, or dietary choices?
The quest for answers intensifies as we strive to understand and, if possible, prevent cancer in our beloved canine companions. If there is a proactive approach to mitigate the risk of cancer in dogs, you’re going to find it in this article.
I’m covering those topics plus:
Things that are proven to increase cancer risk
How certain health decisions affect cancer rates
Whether or not dog food causes cancer
If flea & tick medications and vaccines cause cancer
The role of pesticides in cancer rates
This is a big topic and as always, I’m looking at this from a purely scientific perspective.
Why are So Many Dogs Getting Cancer?
The truth to this lies in a combination of complex factors including genetics, environment, and sheer bad luck.
One major and often overlooked fact rides above all others:
Dogs lifespans have doubled in the last 40 years, thanks to health sciences, nutrition research, and modern veterinary medicine.
In other words, the most basic and legitimate explanation for the dramatic increase in cancer rates in dogs is this: dogs are now living long enough to get cancer, and better diagnostics mean we are catching it, too.
40 years ago many dogs suffered from nutritional deficiencies, health problems, disease, parasites, or a lack of management (keeping them safely leashed or at home).
The truth is that these dogs were not living longer than their modern-day counterparts. It does not matter how people wish to glamorize the ‘old days’ of dogs running the neighborhood and eating table scraps; those dogs were at a major disadvantage. They lived their lives and in many cases, when they turned up sick or lame they were euthanized.
No diagnosis was made because the concept of treating a pet for cancer was foreign. People didn’t believe in ‘pets as family’ the way they do now, either.
Better Cancer Diagnostics for Pets
Just as the human cancer industry has grown, the pet cancer industry has grown too!
As more and more people are treating their pets like family, more and more people are seeking (and paying big money) for veterinary care to solve their health problems. This means that more types of cancer are understood, including the mechanism behind why they happen and how to treat them.
Millions of dollars have been spend on pet cancer research and as a result, veterinarians now have additional tools and treatments at their fingertips.
This means that more dogs are being diagnosed and treated, rather than euthanized. We would be remiss to ignore this simple fact when feeling panic and alarm about cancer rates in dogs.
How Genetics Play a Role in Cancer Risk in Dogs
Genetics play a role in cancer risk in dogs, just as they do in humans.
For example, some humans are more prone to getting breast cancer, because of their genetics.
Dogs are no exception. Certain breeds are very prone to specific types of cancer, too. For example, greyhounds are often destined to get osteosarcoma (bone cancer), and Golden Retrievers are highly prone to hemangiosarcoma.
This begs the importance of heavily screening breeders and choosing ones that do not breed dogs in pedigrees that seem especially prone to cancer, structural problems, and common diseases.
Many people believe that this is a purebred problem and not a mixed breed problem, but mutts are also prone to cancer. Mixing breeds doesn’t automatically cancel cancer risk (that’s not how genetics work).
Just last week I found out that my brothers mixed-breed dog has Osteosarcoma. Being a mixed breed does not make a dog immune to this.
However, some studies do show that in general, purebred dogs are 1.9x more likely to get cancer than mixed breed dogs. While the answer to this one can be somewhat complex, it generally lies in faults related to breeding selections. When humans make breeding decisions, natural selection isn’t allowed to do it’s job.
Are Cancer Rates Higher in Purebred Dogs?
Regarding purebred dogs, this is largely a human error problem, because humans are the ones making breeding decisions. In packs of wild dogs, those that are not robust typically don’t live long enough to breed, either. We humans, however, control breeding in purebreds…and that often means people are intentionally pairing dogs together that shouldn’t be bred in the first place.
In the interest of profits, many breeders of purebred and doodle dogs disregard health and structural issues in their breed.
This is a problem that is only minimized when pet owners educate themselves on how to choose only ethical, highly dedicated breeders (or go through a rescue instead).
That is not to say that well-bred dogs don’t get cancer, they do. All dogs are at risk. But we can help minimize this problem by having a better understanding of genetics and holding breeders to a much higher standard as a whole.
Unfortunately for Great Danes, not only does the breed suffer from cancer, but they are most likely to report cancer at a young age. This is a combination of several factors, including the shorter-than-average lifespan seen in giant breed dogs.
Things that are Shown to Increase Cancer Risk in Dogs
Before we can understand how to prevent cancer in dogs, we have to understand first what things have been shown to increase cancer risk.
I’ll touch more on the nutrition piece below because it’s a complicated one. But here are 5 things that we know (outside of genetics) to increase a dog’s risk of getting cancer:
Early Spay and Neuter
This one is super controversial because there are legitimate reasons to spay and neuter pets at a young age (preventing pregnancy and hormone based aggression being two major factors).
Like all studies, there are notable flaws, however, some research does point to early spay and neutering having a strong correlation to dogs being more likely to get cancers such as mast cell tumors, osteosarcoma, and otherwise.
The discussion about when to spay or neuter your pet (especially when it comes to giant breed dogs) requires critical thinking, risk assessment, and an open dialogue with your veterinarian.
Obesity
Studies regarding obesity and cancer rates in dogs have largely failed to be conclusive, however, it’s well understood that obese dogs may suffer from many secondary health problems which can make successfully treating them for cancer less likely.
In other words, dousing your lawn with a lot of herbicides and chemical treatments may be harmful to your dog’s health. As a general practice, if you do choose to treat your lawn, keep pets off of it for 48 hours and discourage them from licking their paws after being in the grass.
One place people get hung up here is on the use of flea and tick medications; a key difference here is that lawn chemicals were not formulated to be ingested and veterinary medications were. We cover this more below.
Second-Hand Smoke & Environmental Toxins
There is no way around this one; second hand smoke is toxic to dogs. If you are a smoker, it is important that you refrain from smoking anywhere near your pet, or inside of the home where you live together.
Environmental toxins such as pollution and asbestos can also be damaging to your pet; depending on your location and your habits, it may be best to keep your pup home (vs. coming with you to the construction site, for example).
Avoid sunscreens and products that use zinc oxide, as that is toxic to dogs.
Predatory Influencers & Dog Cancer
The ‘false hope’ spread by profit-driven influencers and dog food companies leads to some of the absolute worst heartbreak. It’s a real social problem in the world of dogs and it’s time we all start talking about it!
Here is how it happens.
Many people with a cancer diagnosis find themselves scouring social media groups and the internet for a ‘magic pill’. They are often led down a path by influencers who want them to believe that this diet, that expensive supplement, their book, or this protocol (which you can buy for just $19.99!) will save their dog’s life.
Some influencers use social groups to tell owners how to “prevent and cure cancer” a holistic way. These groups often disparage veterinarians and may even tell members to avoid recommended treatments instead of untested and unproven “natural” treatments.
Dog owners are torn down and led to believe that the choices they had made regarding food, vaccines, and veterinary care to that point are what caused their dogs to get cancer. Guilt, shame, and fear abound.
Then their heartbreak is solved with promises of health and longevity…at a price, of course.
Testimonials and stories of dogs living 5 years or more are presented to desperate owners who then take the bait. Oftentimes, this bait does little to heal the dog, and may actually be harmful. It’s a brand of false hope that is misleading and predatory.
If you find yourself here and your beloved pet by your side, suffering from cancer, don’t blame yourself. Watch out for the snake oil salesmen, they are out to get you and your dog.
Do Vaccines Cause Cancer in Dogs?
It is often speculated that vaccines and over-vaccination cause cancer in dogs, however, these claims are largely unsubstantiated.
Like all veterinary treatments, there are risks associated both with choosing vaccines and not choosing vaccines.
One known type of vaccine-related cancers is related to the injection site. In some very rare cases, especially with the rabies vaccine, sensitive dogs can develop sarcoma at the injection site.
There is not, however, any other published research I can find that shows definitively that vaccines as a whole “cause cancer” (even though many people swear that they do).
All of the anti-vaccine content I’ve seen is from influencers that have made themselves a profitable niche by spreading fear-based messaging with very little if any legitimate research to back up their claims.
Over-vaccination can be problematic for some dogs, however, so keep track of your pet’s medical records and only get the rabies vaccine when it is required by law (every 3 years in adulthood).
This is primarily true for dogs that seem to be predisposed to vaccine reactions where the risk/benefit analysis is different. As with any discussion regarding your dog’s health, a frank discussion with an honest and caring veterinarian is helpful!
Some pet owners choose to look at titers (immunity) via blood draw; while this information is helpful, it is not a replacement for vaccination. Immunity wears off and the titer results may indicate that it’s time to dose up again, so talk to your vet and keep up to date on the latest research.
As with many things related to wellness and health, there are plenty of people out there spreading the idea that flea and tick medications cause cancer.
Like vaccines, this is one of those ‘the dose makes the poison‘ type situations where for most dogs, the benefits far outweigh the risks.
While the active ingredients in veterinary flea, tick, and worming medications are meant to kill parasites, the dose given to your pet (which is determined by their weight) is not large enough to affect the solid majority of dogs in any way.
Chewable products were made to be ingested and have been shown to safely bypass crucial internal systems.
The same logic that people use to conclude that veterinary medications are damaging (because the active ingredient kills bugs) should be applied to holistic treatments as well, though it often isn’t. All too often we give things a pass because they are ‘natural’.
For the tiny percentage of dogs that have had neurological or allergic reactions to veterinary flea and tick medications, it’s often determined that they had underlying health conditions or were given knockoff versions of the product (which absolutely can be dangerous and toxic). It’s important to keep in mind that ‘natural’ treatments have had documented negative reactions as well.
A quick google search turns up many blog posts with fearful headlines about kibble, dog food, and processed food causing cancer. A lot of these headlines are written by companies trying to sell ‘fresh’ dog food, of course.
As with many other claims, there is some truth in the small details (for example, char from barbecue is a known carcinogen) but it doesn’t necessarily indicate or even prove a widespread problem.
This is the difference between pseudoscience (which involves a lot of cherry picking and fear) and actual science.
People equate charred BBQ to kibble. Both kibble and BBQ are processed at high heat (hence the assumption), but kibble is not subjected to open flames like BBQ is. The action of fat and juices dripping into the flame and then rising to the meat again is a major contributor to the development of toxic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
This is not to say that heterocyclic aromatic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) (the result of charring meat) couldn’t be a problematic side effect of the high-heat kibble extrusion process, however. To be perfectly honest, there are many more questions to ask before we can determine how widespread of a problem this is.
This is especially true if we understand how much science and research goes into making sure that dry kibble diets are safe, healthy, and nutritious for a dog to eat. Many dogs that have been fed fresh and raw for most or all of their lives are also turning up with cancer too, and that alone should encourage all of us to dig deeper.
Pet Food Toxicity & Cancer
As a general rule, it’s pretty widely accepted that a poor diet overall can increase the risk of cancer. Making sure our dogs receive balanced nutrition is so important.
A lot of people, after becoming fearful of kibble, will switch to poorly formulated (but well-marketed brands that use a lot of buzz words) or start making their dog’s food. This is a loving and noble thing to do, however, studies show that most home-cooked diets are deficient in (or in excess of) certain nutrients.
As mentioned above, many raw and fresh fed dogs still get cancer and other diseases despite their supposedly “healthy diet”. There is a place for raw and fresh feeding, of course! But is it a cure-all and a catch all? Perhaps not.
Here are some questions we should all be asking of dry food manufacturers:
Is the dog food manufacturer continually testing their ingredients and finished products for the presence of heterocyclic aromatic amines (HCAs) polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and other toxins (including mold and pesticides)?
Do they study and research how kibble extrusion affects nutrients, and continually innovate to make it safer and better?
Does the dog food manufacturer perform feeding trials?
Is the food made by owned facilities, or does the company pay a mass manufacturer to co-pack it alongside many other brands and products?
Has the manufacturer proven that their food is bioavailable, not just “nutrient dense”?
Does the dog food company do any research to improve the health of our pets in other ways (such as cancer research, puppy growth, allergies, or otherwise?)
This information sent me down a rabbit hole of veterinary studies which brought me to the next point.
There is an increasing body of data that may implicate the role of nutrition in puppyhood and how that might increase or decrease osteosarcoma risk factors. We know that excess calcium intake and fast growth in puppyhood lead to a host of bone growth disorders (including osteochondrosis, for example).
Many researchers have noted that trauma to the bone (earlier in life) often correlates with osteosarcoma later in life. Over-nutrition and excess calcium intake in large and giant breed puppies cause forms of bone trauma that should be looked at with much more focus. Many researchers agree.
“Environmental factors that increase risk for osteosarcoma include rapid growth (therefore “large breed” puppy food has reduced levels of available energy to increase the time needed for these dogs to achieve their full size and mass potential), gender (the risk for males is 20 – 50% greater), and metallic implants to fix fractures.”
In the effort to put a stop too fast growth, many breeders and owners of large and giant breed dogs have chosen to feed adult foods. However, these are not balanced correctly to support puppies and often contain calcium levels that are well in excess of published recommendations.
This excessive calcium and lack of correct nutrition leads to brittle bones and incorrect bone modeling. Even if there is no proven or verifiable link between incorrect bone growth and osteosarcoma, these issues are devastating for dogs as it is. It’s so important that puppies are given every chance to grow strong, healthy bones. Hopefully, doing so could also decrease their risk of osteosarcoma.
As a science-focused blogger and advocate for giant breed dogs, I’ve never been MORE convinced that large and giant breed puppies under the age of 2 should only be fed well-researched and properly formulated puppy growth diets.(See our list here).
The Giant Dog Food Project is a great resource for finding appropriately balanced foods that are backed by research and science. At minimum, choosing to stick with science on this one is least likely to do harm of any kind to the bones and joints, and that’s important to keep in mind.
What to Feed a Dog with Cancer
Unfortunately, some dogs are going to get cancer no matter what we do. We can feed a fresh diet or kibble, see the vet or avoid the vet, vaccinate or not, even choose the most incredible breeders, and in some cases, it won’t make a difference.
Once you have your diagnosis, depending on the severity it may be necessary to meet with a veterinary oncologist and discuss treatment options. They see cancer patients, treat them, study them, and know what works.
Their opinion on how to feed your dog with cancer has more merit behind it than anything you might read from a blogger, dog food company, celebrity veterinarian, and yes, even us!
“There is no magic cancer diet. Not only is there no evidence that any specific type of diet is related to the development of cancer in dogs, there is also no clear evidence at this point that any diet can slow the progression or increase the survival of a dog with cancer.”
Cailin Heinze, VMD, DACVN
Many owners switch sick dogs to homemade foods, hoping that the ‘fresh’ nutrients will help them heal. Unfortunately, because many home cooked diets are unbalanced, all this may do is starve their dog of the nutrition they need to thrive and survive.
If you want to cook for your dog (especially one struggling with cancer), speak with a veterinary nutritionist and make sure that you are providing optimal nutrition for healing and wellness.
Many people theorize that carbohydrates cause inflammation (and thus, cancer) and should be reduced in dogs that have cancer.
This often results in people choosing grain-free foods for their pets, not realizing that the ingredients used to replace grains are also high in starch and carbohydrates. Grain-free does not mean carb-free, in other words!
Other people will choose KETO-type dog foods which typically (if not always) have no qualified nutritionists behind their formulation and were created to tap into a human diet trend. KETO is not an appropriate diet for most humans, let alone a dog with cancer.
When a dog gets cancer, the safest and healthiest choice is going to be to choose a diet that has been proven time and time again. Look for feeding trials, qualified nutritionists, and exceptional quality control; not catchy marketing phrases.
Do Vegetables Prevent Cancer?
Influencers have repeatedly put out into the world that feeding a dog vegetables could prevent or even cure cancer.
This concept was based on a small owner-survey study where Scottish Terriers were less likely to get a specific type of bladder cancer if they were supposedly fed vegetables.
Owner surveys are subject to a lot of variables and these results are only a starting point, not a formal scientific conclusion.
Regardless, people ran with the idea and concluded that the results were fact across all facets of cancer and nutrition for dogs, even going on to say that it further proves that kibble is “causing cancer”.
This belief has people feeding their dogs expensive supplements and choosing dog foods with vegetables in them (which, in a dry food, will be nothing more than fairy dust). This is just another example of predatory pseudoscience profiting from fear.
All of this to say, none of this means that the study is debunked or incorrect either. As a matter of fact, a fair amount of research has shown potential benefits of feeding fresh foods, including a possible reduction in bloat risk for Great Danes.
There is absolutely some merit to adding fresh foods to your dogs bowl.
Keep unbalanced fresh foods to 10% or less of the diet, and tread cautiously when offering too many extras to giant breed dogs under the age of 2 (as it may affect bone growth).
Here are some ideas:
Frozen veggies (you can buy large bags at Costco or Sam’s
Large raw meaty bones (supervised, in moderation) to scrape teeth on
Bone broth
Apples or blueberries
Coat whole carrots in canned food and freeze them! Dogs love this treat, especially in the summer.
For digestibility and bioavailability of nutrients, fresh vegetables are generally best served cut into tiny pieces or pureed (with the exception of the fun carrot chew mentioned above).
As always, talk to your veterinarian and make sure you are not replacing too much actual balanced nutrition with foods like this. If your dog is too full to eat their regular food, they can be missing. important nutrients and that is going to mitigate any potential benefits.
How to Prevent Cancer in Dogs
The unfortunate and heartbreaking truth here is that cancer sucks and it’s not necessarily preventable.
Like any health condition, there are many factors that play into overall risk.
Here is our list of the best ways to minimize the risk of cancer in your dog:
Trust your veterinarian, ask questions, keep an open dialogue and allow their experience and expertise to guide you
Choose a highly-researched and well-formulated proven diet and provide supplemental fresh foods
Reduce exposure to environmental toxins such as lawn chemicals and smoke
Protect your dog from excessive sun exposure
See your vet anytime you are concerned about a lump, bump, or growth
Support ethical breeding practices
Above all, the most important thing we can do for our pets is to love them. Their time with us is short, make it the best years possible!
It’s May, and that means that the fleas, ticks, mites, and other creepy crawlies are lurking. Dogs living in most areas of the United States benefit from year-round flea and tick protection. Today we’re talking about the best flea and tick medicine for Great Danes.
In addition, I will cover the following topics:
Is flea and tick medicine safe for dogs?
Are there natural alternatives to flea and tick medicine?
Does flea and tick medication cause seizures?
How much does flea and tick medication cost?
Are pills, topicals, or collars more effective at preventing parasites?
What happens if I don’t protect my dog from fleas and ticks?
This is a huge topic and hopefully a great resource for you! Let’s dig in.
The Best Flea and Tick Medication for Great Danes
There are many flea and tick preventatives to choose from, and everybody will have a different opinion on this (especially because there is a lot of scary stories and misinformation out there!)
Different medications may be more or less effective, depending on where you live, too!
In some areas, fleas and ticks have become resistant to certain medications (especially in bug-infested areas where many pet owners decline flea and tick prevention for their pet). Local veterinarians know what the statistics are and what brands are working to prevent parasites.
We’re going to share some of the most commonly used flea and tick preventatives for Great Danes, including information about Bravecto, Sentinal,Nexguard, and natural solutions.
What Happens if I Don’t Use Flea & Tick Prevention?
Outside of the obvious answer here (keeping fleas and ticks away from your dog), many people are unaware that the proper use of veterinary parasite prevention can also prevent and treat:
Hookworms
Roundworms
Heartworms (spread by mosquitoes)
Tapeworms
Whipworms
Mites (a common cause of chronic ‘allergies’ and itching!)
Not all medicines or natural solutions treat all of those things; it is important to discuss this with your vet and make sure that your pet is fully covered against everything, including fleas and ticks.
Mites bite and cause itching and skin and ear irritation. They are a common and often overlooked source of allergy symptoms in Great Danes.
Of course, the above parasitic infections are pretty gross, but fleas and ticks kind of take the cake here.
Fleas cause itching and “allergy” symptoms. Left untreated, they can also cause welts and intense itching that leads to scabs and skin infections. Many people think their dog is allergic to something in their food, when really, their dog has fleas! Fleas are highly contagious and once they enter your home (via your dog), they are hard to eradicate. Not only that, they will bite humans too! Yuck!
Ticks are a common parasite that carry disease. They are often found in grass, wood, and shade and will attach themselves to the host (your dog), often undetected. They bury their head into the skin, suck the blood out, spread disease, and then use the blood to reproduce.
A tick bite can result in loss of coordination, bacterial infection, Lyme disease, or even death among a laundry list of nasty side effects ticks bring with them to your pet.
To be perfectly honest, you do not want to mess around with Ehrlichiosis, a flea-infested couch, or worse…heart worms either, right?
The treatment for existing parasitic infections, especially heart worms, can be pretty nasty.
A very small percentage of dogs have had a notable reaction to flea and tick medications. In many of those cases those dogs had underlying health conditions, had unknowingly been given dangerous and toxic fake knockoff products, or may actually have been poisoned by something else (and the application timing of flea/tick products was purely coincidental).
These cases are well documented not only by the veterinary community but by the manufacturer of the flea/tick medication as well. Seresto Collars and Bravecto chews are commonly faked and sold as authentic!
Side effects are a risk with any medication or treatment you give your dog (and this includes common procedures such as teeth cleaning or vaccination against rabies).
The small risk of side effects, especially when looking at dogs with no known pre-existing seizure activity or health condition is greatly eclipsed by the sheer volume of dogs who suffer (or even die) needlessly from preventable parasitic infections.
The vast majority of dogs experience no side effects at all with veterinary-backed preventatives, and unlike their unprotected counterparts, they are MUCH less likely to suffer from parasitic illnesses, heart worm, itching, and skin infections.
Fake dupes of flea & tick preventatives can be dangerous and are responsible for many cases where serious side effects have been seen.
I’m going to share more information about knockoff Seresto Collars and more below, so you can learn how to avoid fakes and keep your pet safe.
Safest Oral Flea & Tick Medications for Great Danes
We always recommend talking to your vet about flea and tick prevention, as most of these medications require both a blood test and a prescription.
Don’t let that scare you off. The blood test looks for existing heart worm infections. This is important because oral prevention only targets heart worm larvae, NOT adult worms (which will have filled your dogs heart chambers with large worms that look like spaghetti).
A dog with an existing heart worm infection needs treatment first before taking preventatives.
Once your dog is cleared to take preventatives, your veterinarian will write you a prescription for one or more of the following products (depending on your pet, their weight, and what tends to work best for the pets that are seen in their location). We recommend ONLY purchasing directly from your Veterinarian or Chewy.com, never from other sources (where fakes and dupes may be sold).
Bravecto – Flea & Tick
Bravecto is a dog chew that must be given at a specific dose (based on weight) every three months to prevent fleas, ticks, and mites. It must be used in tandem with another medication to prevent worms (including heart worm), so it is commonly prescribed alongside Sentinal. You can view Bravecto Chews HERE.
Sentinal Spectrum – Parasites
Sentinal Spectrum is a monthly dog chew (based on weight) that prevents heart worms, tapeworms, hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms. When used among a large population of pets, medications like this also help control the flea population (by stopping eggs from hatching)! You can view Sentinal Spectrum HERE.
NexGard – Flea & Tick
Like Bravecto, Nexgard provides protection against fleas, ticks, and mites. It uses a different active ingredient than Bravecto, and must be given monthly (vs. every 3 months). It must be paired with another medication that target parasites such as heart worm and round worm. Nexgaurd is often paired with Heartgard. You can view Nexgard HERE.
Heartgard – Parasites
Heartgard is monthly oral preventative that targets heart worm, roundworm and hookworm. It does not work on whipworm or tape worm, so it’s not as comprehensive as Sentinal. Heartgard is often paired with Nexguard. You can view Heartgard HERE.
Simparica Trio – Flea, Tick, & Some Parasites
Simparica Trio is a great solution for Great Dane owners who want comprehensive oral protection against fleas, ticks, and some parasitic worms (including heart worm, hookworm, and round worms) in one dose. This oral medication requires a prescription and must be given monthly. You can view Simparica Trio HERE.
Trifexis – Flea, Heartworm & Some Parasites
Like Simparica, Trifexis is a once-monthly prescription preventative that targets not only fleas and heart worms but several parastic worms as well (hookworm, roundworm and whipworm). Trifexis does not target ticks and will need to be used in tandem with another product. You can view Trifexis HERE.
Do Flea & Tick Collars Work?
Many people prefer topical treatments or flea and tick collars to chewables. There are some pros and cons to this route.
Unlike chewables, topicals and collars don’t typically always require a prescription. However, their effectiveness can be reduced by bathing or for dogs that like to swim a lot. Additionally, collars can get lost and they can be dangerous for dogs to wear unsupervised.
It’s important to note that some dogs and some people are sensitive to the chemicals on topical versions (including collars) and care should be used around children or sensitive individuals.
Unlike oral medications, topical medications and collars can be dangerous for all pets and humans to ingest. Thus, topical flea and tick prevention is not always ideal for homes with cats (who are especially sensitive to certain ingredients).
Many flea and tick collars and topicals do NOT prevent internal parasites such as whip worm, round worm and heart worm; you’ll likely still need a chewable or secondary product for that.
Seresto Collar – Fleas & Ticks
The Seresto collar is a popular option for those looking to keep fleas and ticks at bay. It’s easy to wear and lasts nearly 7 months. Unlike oral preventatives, the Seresto collar does not require a prescription. You can view the Seresto Collar HERE.
Advantage Multi Topical – Parasites & Worms
Advantage Multi requires a prescription and is a topical medication that prevents multiple worms & parasites, including fleas. It does not prevent ticks, so like most topicals, comprehensive protection using multiple products is needed. You can view Advantage Multi HERE.
Frontline Plus Topical – Fleas & Ticks
Frontline Plus is a popular topical that must be applied every month. This formula kills fleas, ticks, and some mites and is easily found at local grocery stores or online without a prescription. You can find Frontline Plus HERE.
Does Natural Flea & Tick Prevention Work?
Unlike veterinary prevention, most “natural” and “holistic” options have not been widely subjected to rigorous and thorough clinical trials and testing for longevity, safety and efficacy.
While some research and limited private testing has been done (usually showing that directly spraying live bugs with the essential oils in the product tends to kills them), it doesn’t often address any potential health (or olfactory/scent) concerns related to prolonged exposure of these same ‘natural’ chemicals on dogs and cats.
That doesn’t mean that natural solutions aren’t helpful, but it’s important to understand that even ‘natural’ prevention utilizes chemicals. Commonly used essential oils such as peppermint, citrus, rosemary, lemongrass and cedarwood are in fact chemicals. They aren’t well regulated though, and there is a wide range of quality and concentrations from brand to brand.
Some of those oils (peppermint for example), are toxic to dogs and cats.
Not only that, but essential oils have a very strong scent; dogs may not show signs of discomfort but make no mistake, their incredibly sensitive noses may very well be annoyed (or even harmed) by it. Remember, there isn’t a lot of clinical research.
Plant Based Flea & Tick Products Safety & Efficacy
Sprays and collars that utilize essential oils are often marketed as being safe because they are ‘plant powered’. This feel good marketing disregards the fact that many “plant powered” things are in fact toxic.
In “natural” oral (chewable) preventatives, garlic is commonly used. In small amounts that is ok, but in amounts large enough to actually be effective against fleas and ticks, the dose would likely be toxic to your pet. We don’t recommend oral ‘natural’ oral flea & tick prevention chews for any reason.
Natural prevention has its merits, but in many cases, it’s nothing more than snake oil. Most veterinarians (save for a few fringe types who are often trying to sell a product) will tell you that they see more dogs in their office for parasites who had been on ‘natural’ preventatives than any other.
Evidence shows us that that ‘natural’ products are simply not as effective, as much as we want it to be. The false assumption of protection complicates things even further, as pet owners are led to believe that ‘holistic’ options are just as effective (they aren’t).
More research is definitely needed, and I encourage caution around the kind of ‘holistic’ pet care marketing which implies that ‘natural’ is always good and veterinarian-recommended & science-backed products are always bad.
Essential Oil Based Anti-Parasite Solutions
If you are still interested in ‘natural’ solutions, there are some options. The Wondercide brand has done *some* studies which is also helpful, although their research is not nearly as comprehensive as it needs to be to compete against proven veterinary products. They do not test their products for safety and long term use on animals, so your pet is the test subject.
However, among the many options Wondercide is one of the more thoughtfully formulated natural insect repellent products. If you would like to check them out to use as part of a more comprehensive parasite protection plan, we’ve provided some links below!
I like to spray the edge of our deck with Flea & Tick yard spray to reduce bugs on summer evenings, and I occasionally lightly treat my cloths and my pets fur if we are going into dense or wooded areas.
Wondercide Flea & Tick Yard Spray
This solution of essential oils can be sprayed around your yard to reduce the chance of fleas and ticks on or around your property. It does need to be applied liberally and often (especially after rain or sprinkler use), but may be helpful if you live in an area plagued with pests. You can view Wondercide Flea & Tick yard spray here.
Wondercide Pet & Home Spray
Heading out of your house and want to give your dog a little extra boost in protection? Wondercide pet spray may help ward of pests, especially when used in tandem with veterinary preventatives. You can use this to spray down your dogs coat (make sure to reapply often, especially if your dog goes for a swim). As with any preventative, talk to your veterinarian and monitor your dog for negative reactions (including eye irritation, itching, hives, or drooling). You can view Wondercide Pet & Home Spray here.
Wondercide Flea & Tick Collar
The Wondercide Flea and Tick collar targets fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes with essential oils. Reviews on the efficacy in real life applications of this are mixed, and it’s important to keep in mind that the collar will be in close proximity to your dogs nose (potentially bothering their olfactory sense with ongoing exposure). You can view Wondercide Flea & Tick Collar here.
Itching, Allergies, Mites & More
I touched on this above, but many chronically itchy dogs are misdiagnosed with food allergies.
This is a huge problem. Desperate pet owners are switching food brands again and again, often landing on poorly formulated foods that are loaded with lentils and potatoes instead of meat, just to get rid of the itching.
Many times, those chronically itchy dogs are actually suffering from mites or fleas.
Fleas and mites often go undetected; if your dog is not protected, they are at risk. Dogs that are on research-backed parasite prevention are less likely to suffer from chronic itching and other bug-based ailments.
It is very important to talk to a veterinarian and even a veterinary dermatologist if your dog is suffering from itching, scratching, ear infections, scabs, and ongoing skin problems.
How Much Does Flea & Tick Prevention for a Great Dane Cost?
This is where Great Dane owners tend to experience the biggest sticker shock.
Big dogs = big expenses, and because most oral flea and tick medications are dosed based on weight, expect to pay significantly more than you would if your dog was a chihuahua.
I recently renewed our prescription for Bravecto & Sentinal. For two Danes and a small dog it was several hundred dollars out of pocket, but it’s worth it for the peace of mind.
Ultimately, prevention is a whole lot cheaper, and definitely a lot safer, than having to treat my dogs for preventable diseases (especially heart worm and Lyme’s Disease, yikes!).
If cost is an issue, talk to your veterinarian about the most effective and economical option. For those times when oral prevention is out of reach financially, a flea + tick collar is your best bet!
Counterfeit Flea & Tick Products
Fake counterfeit flea & tick meds are a huge problem, and dangerous too. Many documented severe reactions to flea and tick products were the result of a product that only looked like the real thing.
Seresto Collars are one of the most commonly duped products.
As mentioned previously, we only recommend getting your flea/tick meds through your veterinarian or a quality online veterinary pharmacy that your veterinarian approves of.
Never purchase Seresto collars or other flea/tick preventatives from private sellers or unknown websites.
We recommend steering clear of Amazon for the same reason.
As always, talk to your veterinarian. They have a PhD and several years of clinical practice under their belt; we promise, they (like us here at Hello Danes) want your pet happy and healthy!
Today’s post is going to be quick and simple. The anti-ear cropping argument is misleading, and I think we need to talk about it.
This morning somebody started a post in a Facebook group. It was one of THOSE posts. The “this is a hot topic and the initial take on it is controversial” type of conversation that results in a lot of participation, quickly.
They started the thread with a rant about how ear cropping in dogs is painful, torture, abusive, and wrong. Let’s be honest here though, it’s not that simple.
The Anti-Ear Cropping Argument is Misleading
Ear cropping is a simple surgical procedure that is done under anesthesia, and ideally only by veterinarians who are very experienced with the process. The puppies are up playing within hours as if nothing happened. They don’t care about their missing ear flaps.
Ear cropping is less invasive than a spay or stomach tack.
If you walk around a dog show in the U.S., you’ll see hundreds of cropped dogs. The solid majority of them are among some of the most well-kept and cared for dogs in the Country. They are fed an appropriate diet and kept lean and muscular. Their nails are short. They receive a lot of training and enrichment.
Those dogs who were cropped as puppies for their breed standard are far from abused and as adults, they still don’t care about their ears.
Things That Are More Abusive Than Ear Cropping
This is why the anti-crop argument is misleading. There are many, many things happening in the world of dogs that are infinitely more harmful, abusive, and damaging than ear cropping (which is none of those things to begin with). These are the things affecting dogs and the short lives they share with us.
Let’s list them out.
Pet Obesity
Obesity is an epidemic in pets. They are overfed and under-exercised and left to rot on our couches in the name of ‘love’. Many dog owners celebrate this problem by engaging in the idea that overweight pets are cute or ‘all muscle’.
A dog that is allowed to become sedentary and obese is more likely to suffer from boredom, bladder stones, diabetes, cancer, heart problems, joint pain, joint damage, and complications associated with anesthesia.
But let’s keep talking about ear cropping…
Poor Grooming Habits
From pelted Doodles to eagle talons for nails, poor husbandry is epidemic in pets.
The solid majority of pet owners are neglecting at least one of these things. If we want to cry ‘abuse and torture’, let’s please start with basic care items. Not ear cropping.
They chew up the couch to satisfy these missing needs, and when the owners find the mess the dog is often met with the harsh, abusive training tactics listed above. People pull out their phones and take “funny” videos of their “guilty” dog, who is literally just terrified that their owner has turned into an intimidating monster.
So many others are also shocked when at 9 months of age, their sweet 80 pound puppy is pulling them all over the place and lunging at dogs. How could this happen, their dog had “graduated” puppy class and spent time at the dog park for socialization!?
Dogs are living their lives in our homes, often offered little more than a 15 minute walk each day where they are expected to move by our side on pavement and not sniff, explore, run, dig, or climb.
But let’s keep talking about how ear cropping is “abuse”.
Holistic Woo & Anti-Veterinarian Belief Systems
There is nothing wrong with taking a holistic approach to pet care, if you honor the original intent of the world (to address the whole body, and that means utilizing every tool available for health including science).
However, pet owners who walk down the path of disregarding science, modern medicine, and veterinarians in the name of being ‘holistic’ as it’s been defined by a few predatory influencers, are treading in dangerous, neglectful, and often abusive territory.
It is not ok to let a dog suffer in the name of ‘holistic’ treatments. Essential oils don’t cure everything and may be toxic. Broken bones cannot be healed with mud baths and Reiki. Pumpkin seeds are not going to prevent or cure heartworms.
Veterinarians are not money-hungry shills for “big food & big pharma”. These conspiracies are wild and extremely harmful to our pets.
Unethical Breeders & Unethical Rescues
Among the most harmful practices in the world of dogs, far worst than a simple ear-crop procedure, are the poor ethics of so many breeders and rescues.
Skipping health testing, breeding dogs with poor temperaments and structure, telling owners that the dog will be hypoallergenic and family-friendly because it’s a ‘doodle’, and giving puppy buyers unscientific advice about vaccines and nutrition are abhorrent.
What about the rescues that adopt known-aggressive dogs out to unsuspecting and underprepared owners? Or the ones who buy entire litters of cute puppies at auctions and sell them as ‘rescue dogs’ or ‘meat trade dogs’?
But ear-cropping is torture and abuse, got it.
You Don’t Have to Like Ear Cropping
My Great Danes have intact ears. I’ll probably never choose to crop a puppy. I can respect pro-crop dog owners’ choices and have dogs with intact ears at the same time.
Most Great Danes keep their natural ears. Some don’t, and that’s ok as long as the procedure was done in an informed manner by a highly skilled and experienced veterinarian.
I think it’s important when throwing around words such as “abuse” and “torture” that we are being realistic. If ear cropping is defined by those terms, it is implied that spaying/neutering or any other simple, common surgical procedure is also abuse and torture.
We have SO many other things in the world of dogs to concern ourselves with; I’ll never understand why so much time and effort is wasted on inflammatory, misleading, and incorrect remarks about a procedure most dog owners know little to nothing about.
I recently splurged on a Bissell Bark Bath for my Great Danes and literally RAN to the blog to tell you about it. If you are considering options for bathing your Great Dane, this Bark Bath review is a must-read.
When a Great Dane is muddy and dirty, you know it! Giant muddy paws and 130lbs of dirty fur on your couch are a sign that it’s time for a bath!
I’m a big fan of letting my Danes play in the mud and run around outside; but it comes with the added headache of keeping my house clean, too. I purchased the Bark Bath by Bissell for two reasons:
I wanted to easily remove irritants such as pollen, sand, and dirt that were causing my male Dane to itch
Our newly renovated shower doesn’t have enough water pressure to get my dogs clean (unfortunately)
Does the Bissell Bark Bath work to get a dog clean? Are dogs afraid of their Bark Bath? Let’s dig in.
What is a Bark Bath?
This one is a little crazy, but hear me out.
The Bissell Bark Bath is essentially an upholstery cleaner for your dog.
I’m not kidding. This thing looks like a carpet shampooer and acts like one, too.
At first, I thought “this has GOT to be a joke, right?”.
No, it’s not a joke. Bissell went there. They literally made a device that shampoos your dog like they are a piece of furniture. As a matter of fact, they’ve even included an attachment so that you CAN shampoo your actual furniture, too.
I know what you are thinking though. There is NO way this could possibly work! Dogs will be afraid of the Bark Bath anyways, right? How does a Bark Bath even get the dog clean?
Are Dogs Afraid of the Bark Bath?
Here is my honest experience with this.
At first, my dogs were cautious. Within minutes, all three of them actually seemed to enjoy it.
If your dog likes being brushed (I use a Sleek EZ) or is used to being brushed, the Bark Bath will be no trouble at all for your dog.
Bissell includes a beautiful, well-thought-out training guide for acclimating dogs that are not as amenable to the process of being cleaned with a Bark Bath.This guide uses solid, modern behavioral training practices and I was super impressed with the content!
Here is my mantle boy Figaro getting bathed after spending an afternoon running in a VERY muddy field. It’s loud only because my phone was next to the machine during filming – in an ambient room it doesn’t sound this noisy.
Notice how I have him on a towel, and the water/mess is minimal.
Is the Bark Bath Loud?
Bissell includes a thick microfiber mat to put the machine on. This dampens the sound which is not super loud at all. The machine resonates at a deeper tone, so there is no aversive high pitched whine. If anything, the deeper sound of the machine is soothing.
They also made the cord and hose super long so that you can place the machine several feet away from your dog. In theory, if you had a noise-phobic pet, you could absolutely put the device in another room and bath your dog around the corner.
What Does the Bark Bath Come With?
The box includes the Bark Bath machine itself, but also a huge tray of tools for all different coat types from short to long.
It also includes an attachment which can be used to spot clean carpets and upholstery, which are different from the ones you use on your dog.
Bissell included a sample size fabric soap and a full size bottle of no-rinse oatmeal dog shampoo.
The kit comes with two soap reservoirs: one is for dog shampoo, the other one is for upholstery. They are labeled so you don’t mix them up, and when you use the machine you simply snap the correct soap container into place. It’s very easy and straightforward.
They have also included the mat (to dampen the sound of the machine), a microfiber cloth (to wipe feet and face), and a bag to store all of the pieces and parts.
The cord and the hose wrap neatly onto the Bark Bath machine itself, which I like because I cannot stand storing things with errant tangled up cords.
How Does the Bark Bath Work?
The machine is easy to set up (see above where I mentioned pouring the included shampoo into the reservoir, which pre-measures and dispenses soap for you as you clean).
With Danes, the short hair combs are perfect.
I started with my most easy-going confident dog who loves being brushed, just so I could see how the machine worked.
You do not have to wet the coat or scrub it in advance. I do think brushing it first with a Sleek EZ to remove surface dander and extra fur can provide the best results, though.
I had him stand on a towel and then before I turned the machine on, I ran the brush down his back a few times. Then we got started for real.
It literally works just like a carpet cleaner! You depress the button and soap and water comes out, then as you move the wand down the fur, it scrubs and sucks up the water (and dirt). You can see the water and dirt getting sucked back off of your dog.
The water ends up in a reservoir and let me tell you, it was NASTY.
I am able to easily “wash” a whole mildly dirty (not muddy) 130lb Great Dane in about 15 minutes with some solid time spent on his tummy and legs. Once I was finished with shampoo, I switched to ‘rinse only’ mode and ran through his coat one more time.
Do you know those satisfying lines that the carpet gets after you vacuum? This happens with your dog and the Bark Bath, too!
Once I was done, my dog was only a little damp. It was easy to towel dry him and send him on his way!
Does the Bark Bath Actually Get a Dog Clean?
Honestly?
So far, so good.
I’ve run the machine on all three of my dogs multiple times and they are shiny, clean, and smell great. I have no complaints.
Do I think it beats an experienced groomer doing a traditional bath in a salon? No. Nobody can beat that, those people know their stuff.
Is it better than, or similar to an a typical at-home bath? YES! It absolutely replaces a DIY bath in your tub or walk-in shower.
The Bark Bath absolutely got my dogs clean with minimal mess and drama, too.
One of the biggest benefits I can see with a tool like this is that it’s also VERY simple and easy to use for just a quick ‘surface clean’ when you don’t want to deep clean your dog.
This could also be a game-changer for dogs with seasonal and environmental allergies. Just keep it ready-to-go in the mudroom and suck up all the gunk your dog tracks in on their coat.
With a little more time spent, it absolutely gets the dog as clean as a bath, too.
What is the Bark Bath Recommended For?
Having now used (and decided to fall in love with) the Bark Bath, I think it’s an exceptional tool for many situations:
All people who want their dogs clean
Dogs that are afraid of traditional baths
Pet parents who cannot physically wrestle their giant dog into a tub
Dogs with sensitive skin that benefit from keeping irritants off of their coat
People who let their dogs run and play in mud and dirt often
Pets that have lost their mobility and need to be on a stable or soft surface for bathing
Bissell makes a shampoo specifically for use with this machine, and says that using other shampoos can void the warranty. This is a common practice in similar (carpet and upholstery) appliances as suds and bubbles or certain soap formulations can harm the machinery.
My Bark Bath came with Oatmeal shampoo. It smells amazing and left my dogs fur soft and shiny, so I haven’t tried the other varieties yet. They offer four types:
All of these choices are soothing and safe to use on puppies, too.
My complaint? It does NOT go far. With giant breed dogs, you’ll go through a lot of the soap.
The machine DOES give you a ‘rinse only’ option that doesn’t pull soap into the water spray and if I would remember to switch to that I wouldn’t go through quite so much shampoo. My bad.
Do I recommend Bark Bath? Without a question. The Dane community is currently sleeping on this device, but truly, it’s awesome. I would say this is definitely in my top ten “must have” tools for owning Great Danes!
We’ve already written a few posts about dog food & DCM in Great Danes, but haven’t yet compiled a list of helpful topics, links, and science on it. This dog food DCM article will be ongoing and updated often. If you are concerned about nutritional DCM, or if your Great Dane was diagnosed with DCM (dilated cardiomyopathy) or heart disease, this blog should serve as a resource for you.
If you would like to click open some of our most popular nutritional DCM resources, start here (they will open in a new tab for you). Many other links are posted in the blog text below as well.
Nutritional DCM, or “dog food DCM” is when a dog develops dilated cardiomyopathy (heart problems) because of unbalanced or poorly formulated nutrition. While some people believe this is a hoax, the relationship between bad nutrition and health problems in animals is well documented.
In other words, this is a well-known and studied phenomenon. For example, in the not-so-distant past, cats were turning up with dilated cardiomyopathy. Pet food manufacturers responded to this by researching the problem and learning that for cats, it was related to nutritional deficiencies.
For cats, who have a limited ability to make their own taurine, it was a simple solution. Adding taurine to the diet solved the problem. For dogs (who are much more able to synthesize their own taurine from other amino acids), it’s a lot more complicated.
Below I’m sharing some nutritional DCM facts, as well as scientific research and links. In the interest of keeping this article clean and free of bias, we will not be using any affiliate links in the text of the post.
Nutritional DCM Facts
Here are some facts about nutritional DCM Dilated Cardiomyopathy that you may not know.
Nutritional Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs is a serious heart condition that has been associated with certain dietary factors. Here are some key facts about nutritional DCM:
Definition: Nutritional DCM is a heart disease that affects the heart muscle, leading to its enlargement and weakened contractions.
Link to Diet: Research has suggested a potential link between certain grain-free and boutique diets and an increased risk of DCM in dogs. Diets high in peas, lentils, and potatoes are specifically under scrutiny. Adding grains to the diet does NOT solve this problem!
Taurine Deficiency: Taurine is an amino acid essential for heart health in dogs. Some cases of DCM have been associated with taurine deficiency, though not all affected dogs are deficient, and not all taurine-deficient dogs develop DCM. Adding taurine to the diet does not necessarily solve this problem.
Affected Breeds: While initially observed more in breeds predisposed to DCM, such as Doberman Pinschers and Boxers, nutritional DCM has been reported across various breeds, including those not historically prone to the disease.
FDA Investigation: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began investigating the potential link between certain diets and DCM in dogs in 2018. The investigation is ongoing, and updates are periodically released.
Importance of Balanced Nutrition: While the investigation continues, it is crucial for dog owners to provide a well-balanced and nutritionally complete diet. Consultation with a veterinarian is advisable to determine the most appropriate diet for an individual dog based on its breed, age, and health status.
Diagnostics and Monitoring: Diagnosis of DCM involves a thorough veterinary examination, including imaging techniques like echocardiography. Regular veterinary check-ups and monitoring are essential for early detection and management.
Treatment: Treatment may involve dietary adjustments, taurine supplementation, and medications to manage heart function. However, outcomes vary, and some cases may be challenging to manage.
Prevention: Until more is known about the specific dietary factors contributing to DCM, prevention involves choosing dog foods with complete and balanced nutrition, and consulting with a veterinarian to tailor the diet to the individual needs of the dog.
Ongoing Research: The understanding of nutritional DCM in dogs is evolving, and ongoing research is essential to uncover the precise factors contributing to this condition. Veterinarians play a crucial role in staying informed and guiding dog owners in making informed dietary choices.
DCM & Dog Food Research
It’s important to keep in mind that many sources of information on nutritional DCM are extremely biased. “Holistic” veterinarians don’t like this discussion because it directly implicates dog food diets that they promote as healthier (for example, grain-free diets from small dog food companies).
We recommend looking at scientific sources and links, and listening to professionals who have obtained board certifications in their speciality (cardiology, nutrition, internal medicine) when it comes to forming beliefs about nutritional DCM.
Contrary to popular belief, the FDA has not ‘debunked’ anything, and dedicated research into the mechanisms behind dilated cardiomyopathy is ongoing.
Like many blogs, Hello Danes is a profit-driven resource. However, we make it a point to share information and form opinions based on boarded professionals, veterinary research, and legitimate science; not anecdotes. We encourage you to click on the research articles we share and form your own opinion, too!
Dog Food & DCM Science & Links
All Trades DVM DCM Timeline – this is incredibly comprehensive and loaded with direct links to scientific studies on the topic:
The Diet-Associated Dilated Cardiomyopathy DCM in Dogs group on Facebook is eye-opening. They document confirmed cases of nutritional DCM, including the dog’s age, breed, and foods that the dog had been eating at the time of their diagnosis.
This UC DAVIS Study is seeking participants. If your dog has been eating a commercial diet (grain-free or grain-inclusive) for the last 6 months and does not have congenital heart disease, they may be eligible to participate:
The Great Dane Club of America posted a 2002 research update into genetic (congenital) DCM in Great Danes. This is unrelated to nutritional DCM, however, has important information for Dane owners on what to look for:
I did a quick search in the Diet-Associated Dilated Cardiomyopathy group for ‘Great Dane’ and the results were heart-wrenching.
Within minutes I found story after story of Great Danes that had been fed boutique foods and grain-free diets who suffered from an enlarged heart.
These cases were all well documented and had been diagnosed and confirmed by veterinary cardiologists.
Many of them were reversed by switching to Purina Pro Plan Large Breed. For some, it was too late. In a quick search, the food I saw repeated most often as a culprit was Taste of the Wild.
That’s just one brand of many formulas that are popular among Great Dane owners.
If you want my personal opinion, you could not pay me to feed Taste of the Wild or any other label manufactured by its co-packing company, Diamond Pet Foods. This includes Diamond Naturals, Nutra Nuggets, Costco/Kirkland, and Solid Gold.
Even if many dogs seem fine on the grain-inclusive versions of these foods, this company is perfectly willing to ignore DCM research and keep foods, such as Taste of the Wild (TOTW) grain-free on the shelves.
Honestly? The Great Dane community should be much more alarmed about this than they currently are.
It’s not just about grain-free foods. It’s about formulation. At minimum, dog food companies should be employing people who are qualified to design pet foods. Unfortunately, many do not. They can make plenty of money by investing instead in fancy packaging and marketing claims.
I searched two brands at the Pet Nutrition Alliance. One of them was Purina (the company with the largest market share by miles, and no verified nutritional DCM cases), and one of them was Diamond Pet Foods (the makers of Taste of the Wild, who has a very small market share and many verified DCM cases).
Can you guess which is which on the infographic below?
Note: An “ACVN Diplomate” is a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. They have received the highest credentials available when it comes to pet nutrition.
Here are other popular brands in the Great Dane community that do not have qualified staff to formulate the diets:
Fromm Family Foods – Formulated by a chemical engineer. In 2023 they promoted a PhD in Animal Nutrition on their staff, and we hope to see positive changes.
Holistic Select, Wellness Core, Eagle Pack – Information is not available from any source, indicating that they do not have qualified people formulating the diets that they sell under different brand names, and do not wish that information to be public
Diamond: Diamond Naturals, Taste of the Wild, 4Health, Nutra-Nuggets, Costco/Kirkland, Solid Gold – “Consults with an M.S. in Animal Nutrition”. This means that across multiple labels, nobody is on staff to formulate the diets, and their off-site consultant is only marginally qualified
Study after study shows that when it comes to giant breed dogs, and in particular giant breed puppies, choosing a well-balanced and professionally formulated, highly-researched food that has been subjected to feeding trials is incredibly important.
Nutritional DCM & Our Recommendations for Great Dane Owners
We’ve dug into the links, science, and research so that you don’t have to.
We’re making every effort to present factual, science-backed information that the solid majority of veterinarians and veterinary specialists would support, and we are open to being challenged by reputable sources.
Knowing this, here are the recommendations that we unapologetically make:
Choose a dry food from a well-known brand that is committed to research and that has at least one AVCN Diplomate (Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionist) on staff
Feed a grain-inclusive diet
Avoid kibbles that have a lot of peas, potatoes, lentils, or legumes in the first 10 ingredients
Consider getting an echocardiogram for your dog if you’ve been feeding a grain-free or boutique food brand (some dogs will be just fine, but if they aren’t? Catching it early and switching diets is key)
If your dog is suffering from chronic loose stools, skin conditions, muscle wasting, low energy, or allergies, see your veterinarian, take their advice, and don’t be afraid to consider a therapeutic (“prescription” diet) or a consultation with a specialist (dermatology, cardiology, internal medicine, etc.)
Recommended Dog Food Brands That Don’t Cause DCM
The following food brands are NOT associated with cases of preventable nutritional DCM, and are highly recommended by this blog, veterinary professionals, veterinary nutritionists, and top breeders. This is the only paragraph in this post containing Chewy affiliate links – which we could pull for ANY number of brands and formulas.
These are the only ones we are comfortable recommending to Great Dane owners. We will not recommend brands that we feel are unsafe to feed, and for that reason, this is all you will find on our list:
When considering anesthesia for your pet, it is important to weigh the risks and benefits. Anesthesia does have some risks associated with it that must be considered before making a decision.
Much like humans, our canine companions sometimes require medical procedures that necessitate the use of anesthesia. While the thought of our furry friends under sedation can be a source of anxiety, modern veterinary practices and advancements in anesthesia protocols have significantly enhanced the safety of these procedures.
Key points in this article:
Veterinary anesthesia does have its risks but has higher risks for dogs of certain ages, certain breeds, and dogs with a specific medical history
Knowing your pet’s medical history and doing a thorough exam before anesthetic drugs can reduce the risk of anesthesia
General anesthesia is a necessary part of most dogs (if not all) dogs lives and despite anesthetic risk, general anesthesia can be done in a safe and managed way
Is Anesthesia in Dogs Safe?
Your pet’s safety is your number one concern when you hear that they are going to be needing any medical procedure, especially one that might require dog anesthesia.
The Highest Standards of Clinical Practice of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia are “experts at assessment and mitigation of anesthetic risks, delivery of anesthetic and analgesic drugs, maintaining and monitoring physiologic well-being of the anesthetized patient, and providing the highest levels of perioperative patient care including pain management.” -College of Veterinary Anesthesia.
Anesthesia can come with certain risks depending on your dog’s age, breed, and your pet’s health. However, the risks of anesthesia can be mitigated with processes that can be done to avoid complications.
Ten Considerations to Think About When Your Dog Might Require Anesthesia
Any dog owner who wants to keep their pet healthy should learn about the risks of anesthesia as well as the benefits that the surgical procedures that are required by their veterinarian’s instructions.
Going into general anesthesia for your dog uninformed is never a good idea, but there are some considerations that you should think about before the procedure. Being informed will give you peace of mind before the surgery.
One: Your Dog’s Age
Age: Older dogs are generally more at risk of complications related to anesthesia due to their weaker bodies and less tolerance for drugs.
However, a common ‘myth’ or ‘fear-inducing’ statement is that senior dogs are unable to handle anesthesia as they are ‘too high risk’.
Being a senior dog is not a disease, and anesthetic gas is not a death sentence just because of your dog’s age. With proper monitoring and a well-thought-out anesthetic plan, almost all elderly dogs can safely receive anesthesia.
The anesthetic risk for a senior typically outweighs the benefit of the procedure that they require, despite age.
Two: What Breed is Your Dog?
Breed: Certain breeds can have higher risks than others due to genetic predispositions towards respiratory issues like brachycephalic breeds (think: pugs and Bulldogs).
It is important to inform your vet of your dog’s breed before any procedure involving anesthesia so that they can account for this risk and ensure a safe anesthetic experience.
If you have a breed of dog that is possibly at a higher risk of dog anesthesia causing complications, it is very important to find a veterinarian anesthesiologist who is experienced in dealing with that specific breed.
Three: Understand Your Dog’s Health History
Health History: A thorough physical exam and health history should be taken before any anesthetic procedure is performed on your dog. This could be the most important part of avoiding anesthesia complications.
Any medical issues that your dog has had in the past should be discussed before undergoing anesthesia.
This includes previous surgeries, allergies, any kind of chronic illness or recent trauma, as well as any medications that your pet is taking. All of this information will help the veterinarian to determine many of the procedures that they will or will not do for your dog during their procedure.
Blood Tests
Taking a sample of your pet’s blood should be a non-negotiable before giving any anesthesia.
Coagulation issues, organ health, and electrolyte issues can be detected ahead of time by a simple blood test.
All too many times a dog presents ‘fine’ under a physical examination, but could show underlying health issues in the blood work that must be addressed before administering anesthetic or sedation.
A simple test of your dog’s blood could save so many anesthesia-related deaths when it is not the anesthesia that is the problem at all.
Four: What Procedure is Your Dog Getting?
Next, it is important to weigh the pros of the surgery required against the cons of the anesthesia.
For example, if your dog is requiring a major procedure then the benefits of anesthesia far outweigh any risks associated with it for quality of life and overall pain relief.
However, if your pet is only having a minor procedure and the risk for complications due to anesthesia is high, then it might be worth considering other options such as local and regional blocks that can help to minimize any risks related to general anesthesia.
Typically, a quality veterinarian who performs ethical veterinary medicine, will not suggest performing general anesthesia for elective procedures that are not required or that will not better the life of your dog/alleviate pain or otherwise improve the quality of their life.
Five: Know What Anesthesia Your Dog Will Be Given
Knowing what anesthesia will be given is essential for knowing what to watch out for in terms of side effects and complications.
Each type of anesthesia agent has its own set of risks and benefits, so it is important to discuss with your veterinarian which agent they feel would be best suited for your dog’s needs.
Additionally, certain breeds of dogs can be very sensitive to certain anesthesia, such as brachycephalic breeds that often have a difficult time with inhalant anesthetics.
Lastly, being aware of the different types and doses of anesthetic agents will help you to know what to watch out for if your dog experiences any unexpected side effects or complications during post-operative pain management and recovery.
Local Anesthesia
Local anesthesia is usually the “safest” option for dogs. It is typically a topical gel or injection that numbs the localized area only, and it can be used to surgically remove tumors, sutures, cysts, and other small procedures.
The anesthetic agent used in local anesthesia will differ depending on the size of the procedure and the type of surgical site.
The advantage of using a mild sedative like this is that it minimizes any risks associated with general anesthesia, especially in those dogs who may be at a higher risk for complications due to anesthetic agents.
However, there are still risks associated with local anesthesia, such as potential nerve damage or serious allergic reactions.
Inhalant Anesthesia
Inhalant anesthesia is the most common form of anesthesia used in dogs and cats.
It is administered through a mask or tube, which delivers a controlled dose of anesthetic gas to your pet. (Otherwise known as a breathing tube).
The advantage of this form of anesthesia is that it can be quickly reversed and adjusted depending on how your pet reacts during the procedure.
The downside of inhalant anesthesia is that the anesthetic agents used can be quite potent and can cause side effects such as muscle tremors, slowed heart rate, or breathing difficulties in some cases.
Induction Anesthesia
Induction anesthesia is a type of general anesthesia used in dogs.
Typically, it is administered intravenously to achieve unconsciousness quickly, and then supplemented with inhalant anesthesia or other anesthetic agents until surgery is complete.
The advantage of induction anesthesia is that it can be quickly reversed if necessary, and the veterinarian can easily adjust levels of the anesthetic agent during the procedure if needed.
Pre Anesthetic Sedative
Usually, a pre-anesthetic sedative is administered before general anesthesia.
This helps your dog relax before the procedure and may help with pain relief or reduce anxiety once the anesthesia has been administered.
The dose of pre-anesthetic sedative will vary according to the size and breed of your dog, as well as their individual medical history.
Six: Have a Plan in Place Ahead of Time
After your dog has any type of anesthesia from a veterinary anesthesiologist, you will want to have a plan to manage pain and help them recover from their surgery.
Remember, your dog will not be able to feel pain during the actual veterinary anesthesia and analgesia, but you will want to have a plan for when it begins to wear off.
Pain Medication
Depending on the type of procedure, your veterinarian may choose to give your dog a combination of pain medications to help reduce the amount of post-operative pain and discomfort.
Long Acting Analgesics can be used for longer procedures that require more than one dose, or if your pet is at risk for developing chronic pain.
Monitoring
You will also want to monitor your pet closely after they return home from the vet’s office. As some anesthetics can cause delayed reactions or side effects, it is important to watch for any signs of distress such as vomiting, diarrhea, increased breathing rate or changes in behavior.
If you notice anything out of the ordinary, contact your veterinarian as they will be able to discuss with you to prevent prolonged recoveries.
Follow your veterinarian’s instructions closely and do not give your dog any over-the-counter products that you don’t pass by your vet first as it could have interactions with the gas anesthesia that was given.
Seven: The Quality of the Facility
Making sure that you choose a facility that is certified and equipped with sufficient anesthesiology equipment is another important factor to consider when selecting anesthesia for your pet.
Ask your veterinarian what type of monitoring they use during the procedure, as well as any other safety protocols they have in place to ensure that your pet remains safe while under anesthesia.
It is also helpful to ask them about the type of procedures they have to keep your dog safe and healthy before, during, and after their procedure.
Warming Blankets
Dogs who undergo anesthesia can quickly become cold and may require warming blankets or other heating devices to help keep their body temperature regulated. Your pet’s circulation is of utmost importance during the times in which they are being put under, while they are under, and while they are waking up.
Your veterinarian should be able to provide these for your pet during their procedure as well as when they are recovering from the effects of anesthesia.
With low body temperature, there can be health risks associated with anesthesia which may lead to slower recovery times or bigger complications.
Blood Pressure Monitoring
Blood pressure monitoring should be done to prevent hypotension (low blood pressure) and hypertension (high blood pressure).
Monitoring should also be done to check the oxygen saturation of your pet’s blood as well as their heart rate.
This information can help the veterinarian adjust the levels of medication used during anesthesia and make sure that your pet is safe throughout the procedure.
Eight: How Experienced is the Vet Administering the Anesthetic?
Make sure that the clinic in which you are receiving anesthesia for your pet has a certified anesthesiologist.
It is important to ask about the anesthesiologist’s experience to make sure that your pet receives the best possible care and attention during their procedure.
You can also ask about any additional qualifications or certifications the veterinarian may have which will help ensure that you are not putting your dog at high risk by opting to do surgery with a veterinarian who might not be equipped or certified to do so.
Nine: Are All Veterinary Team Members Trained in Perioperative Care?
Inquiring about the team members who will be performing the procedure, as well as their training in perioperative care, is also important.
Perioperative care includes pre-operative preparation and monitoring, intra-operative management, and post-operative recovery and observation.
Make sure that all members of the veterinary team are experienced in caring for patients undergoing anesthesia and have the necessary training to make sure that your pet receives the best possible care.
It is also helpful to ask about the ratio of veterinary staff to patients for you to be assured that there will always be someone available if any complications arise during the procedure or recovery period.
Ten: Know that Sedation and Anesthesia is Required to Keep Your Dog Healthy
Last, even though anesthesia can be scary, it is important to know that dog owners everywhere are relying on their veterinarians to take care of their dogs under anesthesia to live longer and healthier lives.
Without anesthesia, dog owners would not be able to do yearly dental procedures, undergo surgeries for medical issues, or have access to diagnostic imaging.
With proper monitoring of your dog’s vital signs, proper pre-surgery bloodwork, and a great veterinarian team, your dog can undergo anesthesia with little to no risk.
In Conclusion
By taking the time to ask lots of questions you can help make sure that anesthesia for your pet is a safe, comfortable experience.
You will also have peace of mind knowing that your pet is receiving some of the best care possible.
