Today's large pet article: Large dog health problems.

Everyone has a preference as to the size of dog they want and larger dogs are just as popular as the smaller ones. With some breeds of large dogs, you may have some health problems just like the smaller ones, but hip dysplasia is the number one health concern in older dogs because of their bone structure. The Health problem in large dogs also includes kidney failure and food allergies.

Beautiful Large Dog Breeds

The Afghan hound and the Great Dane are very large as they tower about other large dog breeds. The German shepherd and the Rottweiler are a little smaller than the hound and Great Dane but still fit the large dog breed category. All of these breeds suffer health problems in large dogs from birth to adulthood.

Hip Dysplasia and Health Problems in Large Dogs

Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects the hip joint and prevents many male and females from breeding. Breeds of dogs that have a possibility of displaying hip dysplasia receive x-rays in the first year of life to determine if they have such a potential problem. If the dog shows positive signs of hip dysplasia, they are deemed unsuited for breeding. This does not affect their ability to be the perfect and lovable companion.

Other Health Problems in Large Dogs

One health problem is diarrhea, which results from many different reasons such as bacterial, fungal and viral infections. Parasites also cause dogs to have the diarrhea, depending on the type of parasite. Some other reasons for diarrhea in a healthy dog are over eating, changing the food and indigestion. Some medications given to dogs also cause diarrhea and at times can be severe.

If the dog continues to have diarrhea for more than twenty-four hours, medical treatment is required. The first thing you can try is a bland diet of rice and potato instead of their regular food. This may help, but in case it does not, you may need to have a veterinarian determine the cause.