4
Answers Home
» Breeds
» Mixed Breeds
Adopting a one-year old German Shepher/St. Bernard mix.
I'm thinking of adopting this dog from a dog foster care system. He is supposed to have a clean bill of health, but is taking glucosamine supplements. I know both breeds can have dysplasia - should I be concerned? What else do I need to worry about?
Asked by
Member 1068981
on Nov 7th 2011
Tagged
in Mixed Breeds
Status
- Cast your vote for which answer you think is best!
Answers
I think it's fine that he's taking glucosamine, my dogs take glucosamine supplements. In my opinion, every dog should be taking good vitamins to keep them healthy. I wouldn't worry too much about it. If you're worried about him, ask more questions and ask why he is taking glucosamine supplements. Ask them more about the dog.
Howard
answered on 11/7/11.
Helpful? 
/
0
They are probably using the glucosamine supplement as a maintenance/preventative- many breeders of large breed dogs recommend taking it from puppyhood to lessen the chance of othopedic problems. (I don't know if it actually WORKS that way, but it's a common practice.)
HD is common in almost every large dog breed. The good news is that keeping the dog at a healthy weight and maintaining good muscle tone can dramatically lessen the eventual symptoms. Dogs with very bad hips can still be happy and active.
Other things to worry about: keep in mind, giant dogs in general have shorter lifespan and are more susceptible to many injuries and ailments than smaller dogs- the same is true of giant animals in every species, including humans. So be prepared for the vet bill. But with good diet and exercise, low-stress lifestyle, dogs can live much longer than average for their breed.
Bruno
answered on 11/7/11.
Helpful? /
0
