Large-Breed Puppy Care Guide

Raising a large-breed puppy is one of life’s greatest adventures—full of cuddles, chaos, and those unforgettable puppy zoomies. But along with the fun comes a unique set of responsibilities. From proper nutrition and early joint support to training and insurance, your puppy’s first year is where you build the foundation for a strong, healthy, and happy adult dog. This guide walks you through the essentials to make raising your big pup easier, healthier, and a lot more enjoyable.

1. Specialized Nutrition for Large-Breed Puppies

Large-breed puppies grow quickly—that rapid growth can put a lot of stress on developing bones and joints, making early nutrition absolutely essential. The right food and supplements can help support healthy growth and reduce the risk of joint issues later in life.

Large-breed puppies do best on a high-quality large-breed puppy dry food, which supports steady growth, proper bone development, and balanced nutrition. Dry kibble also makes portion control easier and helps keep their teeth cleaner, though adding a little wet food for flavor is perfectly fine.

Puppies also need plenty of hydration, typically about ½ to 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight per day, with more on hot days or after activity. Keeping a bowl of fresh water available at all times helps ensure they stay properly hydrated as they grow. A spill-proof water bowl—like the Loving Pets Spill Proof Dog Bowl—can work really well, ensuring they always have clean, accessible water without the mess. Pairing it with a Reopet Waterproof Pet Feeding Mat with high raised edges adds even more convenience, as this heavier, thicker BPA-free placemat helps prevent spills from spreading and keeps your feeding area clean and tidy.

When selecting a food for your large-breed puppy, choose a formula specially balanced with calcium and phosphorus to support proper bone development and help prevent hip dysplasia. Prioritize high-quality protein to build strong muscles and support overall growth, and look for joint-supporting nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin to give developing joints a healthy start. Additionally, avoid free-feeding and stick to portion-controlled meals to help your puppy maintain a healthy weight, reducing unnecessary stress on growing joints.

Best large-breed DRY puppy formula

1. Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Puppy Food

The veterinarian-recommended PURINA Large Breed Puppy formula for large breed puppies under 2 years is designed to support appropriate growth rates in large breed puppies. It includes glucosamine for joint development, DHA from fish oil for brain and vision development, and high-quality protein to fuel growing muscles. The inclusion of vitamin A and omega-6 fatty acids also helps nourish the skin and coat.

2. Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed Puppy Food

Hill’s Science Diet offers a formula tailored for large breed puppies, featuring lamb or chicken meal and brown rice. The high-quality protein supports muscle growth, while DHA from fish oil aids in brain and eye development. Balanced minerals promote healthy bone and teeth development, and the food is made in the USA with global ingredients you can trust.

3. Blue Buffalo PUPPY Life Protection Formula

Blue Buffalo Puppy Life Protection Formula for large-breed puppies is a premium, natural kibble designed specifically for large breed puppies aged 2 to 12 months. Made with real deboned chicken as the first ingredient, this formula supports healthy muscle growth and proper bone development. It includes DHA and ARA, fatty acids found in mother’s milk, to help support cognitive and retinal development. The food also features Blue Buffalo’s exclusive LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support immune system health and life stage requirements.

BEST LARGE-BREED WET FOOD

Wet food like the Purina Pro Plan Wet Puppy Food Pate or the Pedigree Puppy Wet Food can be a tasty and nourishing addition to a large-breed puppy’s diet, especially for picky eaters or those who need extra moisture. It’s soft, aromatic, and easy to digest, making it appealing during teething or transitions. However, because wet food is rich and calorie-dense, it’s best used as a topper rather than the main diet, helping prevent overfeeding while still giving your puppy variety and enjoyment at mealtime.

2. Supplements for Growing Joints

Even with a balanced diet, many large-breed puppies benefit from added joint support during their rapid growth stages. Their developing bones and playful energy can put extra stress on joints, so providing the right supplements early on can help support long-term mobility and comfort. Nutramax Dasuquin for Small to Medium Dogs is a highly trusted choice for puppies up to 60 lbs, formulated with glucosamine, chondroitin, avocado/soybean unsaponifiables (ASU), and MSM to strengthen cartilage and support healthy joint function. Another excellent option is Zesty Paws Puppy 8-in-1 Multivitamin Bites, which combine joint-nourishing ingredients with probiotics for digestion and essential vitamins for skin, coat, and immune health — all in soft, chicken-flavored chews that make daily supplementation easy and enjoyable.

3. Early Training and Socialization

Training is a crucial part of raising a large-breed puppy. Because they grow quickly into powerful adults, early obedience is essential to ensure they’re safe, manageable, and confident. Start with basic commands like sit, stay, and come, and reinforce them with treats, praise, and consistency.

For training without crumbs or mess, Milk-Bone MaroSnacks and Wellness Soft Puppy Bites work especially well — they’re bite-sized, healthy, and irresistible to puppies. The easy-to-clean RoyalCare Silicone Dog Treat Pouch features a magnetic closure and sturdy waist clip, keeping treats secure and within reach — making reward-based training simple, consistent, and stress-free. If you need to collect poop, Earth Rated Poop Bags make it easy—they’re guaranteed leak-proof, extra thick, and come in lavender-scented refill rolls.

A gentle leader headcollar like the small PetSafe Deluxe Easy Walk Harness helps reduce pulling and teaches better leash manners – an essential skill for large-breed dogs to ensure safe, controlled walks and prevent strain or injury to both dog and owner.

Introducing your puppy to swimming can be a fun and safe way to exercise, especially for large-breed pups with growing joints. Start slowly in shallow water, using gentle encouragement and treats to build confidence. Always supervise closely and consider a puppy life vest like the Outward Hound Granby Splash Dog Life Jacket for extra safety.

For positive reinforcement, the OYEFLY Lightweigt Pet Training Clicker is an excellent tool for marking desired behaviors with precise timing, helping your puppy quickly understand which actions earn rewards. For recall and outdoor training, the Hi Kiss Puppy Training Lead offers control while giving your puppy some freedom to explore. A great bundle for effective, versatile training, the Ecollar Technologies Mini Educator ET-300 and PetsTEK Dog Training Clicker Kit provide clear communication and reliable control across any environment. Ideal for backyards, parks, hunting, or K-9 work, they help improve obedience, recall, and focus from a distance — making them excellent tools for training safely and consistently.

Perfect for helping your puppy calm down after playtime or settle in for the night, the Original Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Toy provides comfort and security by mimicking the warmth and heartbeat of a real companion. Pair it with an N-Bone Puppy Teething Ring, which satisfies natural chewing instincts and soothes sore gums, to help your puppy relax and stay content. Together, they ease anxiety, reduce whining, and promote better sleep — making them ideal calming aids and crate-training essentials for growing puppies.

The Best Friends by Sheri Original Calming Donut Bed offers a cozy, secure space designed to ease anxiety and promote restful sleep for large breeds. Its soft shag faux fur mimics a mother’s warmth, while the raised rim provides head and neck support. Perfect for pets up to 150 lbs, this XL bed helps large breeds feel safe, relaxed, and comfortable — and since many puppies already enjoy sleeping in the larger size, it’s a smart, long-term investment that saves you costs as they grow into adulthood.

Accidents are part of the process, and Basics Training Pads provide an absorbent, leakproof surface for easy cleanup and guidance during potty training. For messes beyond the pad, use a pet-safe cleaner like Rocco & Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator — formulated to remove stains and odors effectively without harsh chemicals, keeping your home fresh and your puppy’s training space clean.

An indoor playpen is perfect for keeping your large-breed puppy safe and contained. The IRIS USA 24″ 4‑Panel Dog Playpen offers a roomy, customizable space with a convenient door, while the Amazon Basics Foldable Octagonal Metal Playpen is sturdy, versatile, and works indoors or outdoors. Both provide a secure area for play, training, or relaxing without constant supervision.

Socialization is also key: expose your puppy to different people, places, and other dogs to build confidence and reduce anxiety later in life. Crate training can support housebreaking and provide a secure space where your pup feels safe. Remember, large breeds often mature more slowly mentally than physically, so patience and positive reinforcement go a long way.

4. Large Puppy Grooming

Regular puppy grooming is essential for keeping your furry friend clean, healthy, and comfortable. Start by brushing your puppy’s coat several times a week with a brush like the Hertzko Dog Slicker Brush and Hair Remover to gently remove loose fur, prevent mats, and keep their coat soft and shiny. Regular baths help remove dirt, reduce odors, and keep your puppy feeling fresh and comfortable. Great options include the Bodhi Dog Shampoo Brush for a soothing, deep clean and Burt’s Bees for Pets Tear-Free Puppy Shampoo and Conditioner to keep their coat soft and skin healthy. Ensure your puppy looks and feels their best with gonicc Professional Small Dog Nail Clippers or gonicc Pet Nail Trimmer Scissors for safe, easy nail care, and Pet MD Dog Ear Cleaner Wipes to gently clean their ears and prevent infections. Don’t forget those pearly whites — the Arm & Hammer for Pets Tartar Control Kit for Dogs, complete with toothpaste, toothbrush, and finger brush, helps freshen breath and keep your puppy’s teeth strong and healthy.

Remember to regularly check your puppy’s ears, eyes, and paws for any signs of irritation or dirt. Grooming isn’t just about cleanliness—it’s a chance to bond, build trust, and make your puppy feel safe, loved, and confident.

5. Exercise Guidelines for Large-Breed Puppies

When caring for a large-breed puppy, it’s important to avoid excessive high-impact exercise since their bones are still developing. Instead, focus on short walks and controlled play sessions to build strength without risking injury. Low-impact activities like swimming are excellent for supporting healthy joint development while keeping your puppy active and engaged.

To keep your pup both entertained and mentally stimulated, choose durable toys like the KONG Stuffable Puppy Toy or Chuckit! Ultra Ball, or squeaky favorites such as the Multipet Mini Lamb or Best Pet Crinkle Duck. For added mental engagement, a treat-dispensing puzzle like the Outward Hound Puzzle Toy turns playtime and mealtime into brain-stimulating activities. These interactive toys challenge your puppy to think and problem-solve, helping prevent boredom, encouraging healthy habits, and providing both mental and physical enrichment for growing pups.

6. Preventive Vet Care

Regular veterinary care is essential during your large-breed puppy’s first year. Start scheduling checkups as early as 6 to 8 weeks to monitor growth, begin vaccinations, and set up a parasite prevention plan.

Puppy insurance is an essential way to protect your new furry family member from the unexpected. Puppies are naturally curious, energetic, and sometimes a little mischievous, which can lead to accidents or health issues that become costly very quickly.

Signing up for insurance early not only safeguards your puppy from emergencies but is also usually more affordable, since younger, healthy puppies are less likely to have pre-existing conditions. Many policies also cover preventive care, such as vaccinations, routine check-ups, and basic treatments, helping you stay on top of your puppy’s health from the very beginning. Take the time to find the best coverage for your pup’s unique needs and your budget here.

By following these essential care tips—from choosing the right insurance and nutrition to consistent training and safe exercise—you’ll set your large-breed puppy up for a lifetime of health and happiness. Enjoy every stage of their growth, the playful moments, and the special bond you’ll build along the way. With the right care, your big pup will thrive and bring joy for years to come.

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