Large Dog Breeds and Joint Health: 10 Breeds That Need Extra Hip Care

Big dogs carry a lot of weight on their hips, elbows and knees, and many large and giant breeds are more likely to develop joint problems as they age. The good news is that a lot of joint care is in your hands: keeping your dog lean, choosing the right exercise and starting support early all help a big dog stay comfortable and active for longer.

Why large breeds need extra joint care

Large and giant breeds grow fast as puppies and carry more weight as adults, which puts steady stress on their joints. Many also have an inherited risk of hip or elbow dysplasia, where the joint doesn’t form a smooth fit. Over time that can lead to stiffness and wear. Responsible breeders screen parent dogs for this, so ask about hip and elbow scores when choosing a puppy.

Signs your dog’s joints need attention

• Slow to get up after lying down, especially in the morning
• Hesitating at stairs, the car or the couch
• A bunny-hopping gait or a sway in the back end
• Shorter walks, lagging behind or sitting down mid-walk
• Licking at a hip, knee or elbow

10 large dog breeds that need extra hip and joint care

1. Bullmastiff

Often weighing over 100 pounds, Bullmastiffs put a lot of load on their joints, and hip and elbow dysplasia are known concerns in the breed. Read our Bullmastiff guide.

2. Cane Corso

A powerful, muscular guardian breed with a known risk of hip dysplasia. Controlled growth as a puppy matters. Read our Cane Corso guide.

3. American Bulldog

Athletic and stocky, American Bulldogs love to play hard, which makes healthy weight and joint care important. Read our American Bulldog guide.

4. American Akita

Akitas are large, heavy-boned dogs, and hip dysplasia is one of the health issues the breed is screened for. Read our American Akita guide.

5. Black Russian Terrier

This big working breed can be affected by both hip and elbow dysplasia. Read our Black Russian Terrier guide.

6. Bloodhound

Bloodhounds are large, long-bodied scent dogs that spend hours on the trail, so their hips and elbows work hard. Read our Bloodhound guide.

7. Dogo Argentino

A strong, athletic hunting breed. Like most big, active dogs, it benefits from joint screening and a lean build. Read our Dogo Argentino guide.

8. Dutch Shepherd

An energetic herding and working dog. Hip dysplasia can occur, so build exercise up gradually in young dogs. Read our Dutch Shepherd guide.

9. Alaskan Husky

Bred for long runs, Alaskan Huskies keep their joints busy. Active older huskies often need extra support to keep going. Read our Alaskan Husky guide.

10. English Setter

A medium-to-large sporting dog where hip and elbow dysplasia are known concerns. Read our English Setter guide.

How to protect a big dog’s joints

• Keep them lean. Extra weight is the biggest everyday strain on joints. You should be able to feel the ribs easily.
• Feed a large-breed puppy food. It supports steady growth instead of growth spurts.
• Choose low-impact exercise. Walks, swimming and sniffing games are easier on joints than repeated jumping or long runs on hard ground, especially for puppies.
• Make the home joint-friendly. Rugs on slick floors, a ramp for the car and a thick orthopedic bed all help.
• See your vet early. Regular checkups catch joint changes sooner, when there are more options.

Where CBD oil fits

Many owners of big dogs add CBD oil to the daily routine to support joint comfort and mobility, especially as their dog gets older. It works best alongside a healthy weight and the right exercise.

Our CBD Oil for Dogs comes in strengths sized for big dogs: 750 mg for dogs 91 to 120 pounds and 1000 mg for dogs over 120 pounds. It’s made with organic full-spectrum hemp extract and it’s tested by an independent lab (see our lab reports). Use our CBD dosage chart to find the right amount, and read CBD oil for senior dogs for an older dog’s routine.

This article is for general information and isn’t veterinary advice. If your dog is limping or in pain, see your vet. Check with your vet before starting any supplement, especially if your dog takes medication.