It is a common misconception that Great Danes can and will eat anything. Their large stature gives the impression of invincibility when the truth is that these gentle giants actually have a very sensitive digestive tract. Most vets and Great Dane breeders will tell you that the large breed is prone to having health problems regarding their stomachs and metabolism. Diet is important in all animals, but in Great Danes the correct diet really can help to improve their health and life span.

Puppies

You can help to reduce the risk of future digestive problems by starting with a good food right from the beginning. A giant breed puppy food should be fed as regular puppy foods do not have the correct amount of nutrients required by giant breeds of dog. Hills Science Plan has created a food specifically for large puppies, which can be fed until the dog reaches 12 months old.

A good puppy food will have the correct ratio of protein, calcium and fat to encourage growth and development, however with Great Danes too much calcium can cause skeletal problems in later life, such as arthritis, by growing too quickly.

Adults

Adult Great Danes have a slower metabolism rate than smaller breeds, which means that without the proper diet and exercise regime it is easy for them to put on weight. Obesity can cause problems to the digestive tract and leg joints as well as increasing the risk of other health problems include heart disease and diabetes.

To reduce the risk of weight gain adult feeds should have a lower fat content than regular dog food. Easily digestible fiber will help to reduce stomach problems such as gastritis and excessive wind (a common problem in large dogs!) as well as giving the energy requirements without adding weight. Due to the breed problems of heart conditions, an adult feed should also have adequate levels of vitamins E and C.

Mature

Dogs are generally considered mature once they reach the age of 7 years old, however as Great Danes tend to have a shorter life span, it is advisable to begin treating them as 'mature' once they become 5 years old. After this time their nutritional requirements change again; sodium and phosphorus levels should now be monitored.

For Great Danes arthritis becomes a problem as they age. Feeds with added glucosamine can help to reduce joint problems, although this can be bought separately.

Type of Feed

Although wet meats are available throughout the market, most diets that are breed or size specific will be a dry kibble based meal. Kibble, or biscuit, meals are considered healthier as they help to promote good dental hygiene. If you do decide to feed a wet meat, make sure that you add a dry mixer to the meal.

It is also important that plenty of fresh water is made available, especially alongside a dry diet. Great Danes are large dogs and need more water than smaller breeds.

Supplements

Occasional treats should be given to supplement a Great Dane's diet, but it is important that you choose a low-fat snack, especially for older dogs. You can also buy treats that are designed for larger dogs, containing cod liver oil, omega-3 and -6 oils and glucosamine. These will aid the joints as the dog ages.

If you need more advice regarding feeding your Great Dane, speak to your vet. Most clinics will have a technician or nurse who is specifically trained in pet nutrition and will be able to point you in the right direction.

Great Danes are loving dogs, who make great protectors of the family. By feeding him a good, well-balanced diet you are loving him back, but make sure that he also gets plenty of exercise and is vaccinated and treated for parasites on a regular basis.

Learn more about this author, Charlotte Howard.
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