Best products for bigs

Big dogs may be gentle giants, but their large frames need a little extra help sometimes. With the help of David Dycus, DVM, MS, DACVS-SA, we've rounded up products that are large-breed-friendly to help them, whether at rest or on the go.

Help them rest comfortably 

Big Barker pet beds are designed with larger dogs in mind, with a recommended weight of 50 lb or larger. The beds are made with orthopedic foam to mimic a human bed and come in large, extra-large and giant sizes to fit even a Great Dane comfortably without compressing under their weight like a traditional polyfill bed does. Dr. Dycus notes that an optional waterproof liner keeps these beds at their best even in a hospital setting where accidents may occur. Big Barker beds are made in America and come with a 10-year warranty.

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Help them get up easily

The Help‘EmUp Harness with Hip Lift is great for helping large dogs with orthopedic or neurologic conditions get up and ambulate, Dr. Dycus says. It is a complete shoulder-and-hip harness system that places a pair of handles where pet owners can quickly reach them, allowing them to lend support any time a pet needs it. It also helps the owner, who may struggle to lift a pet's weight unassisted.

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Help protect their joints

Large- and giant-breed dogs are more prone to develop elbow hygromas, pressure sores and decubital ulcers, says Dr. Dycus. The Standard Length Adjustable DogLeggs, from DogLeggs, protects these pets' elbows and helps to prevent them from developing these conditions. The product is custom-sized based on the measurements sent to the company and is constructed from a three-dimensional fleece-faced, highly breathable, four-way stretch textile with wicking properties. This material allows air to circulate while keeping the joint warm. The elbow cuffs contain 7 mm of padding, sufficient for even giant breed dogs. VELCRO brand fasteners are used for adjustments and attachments. It is machine washable.

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