Veterinary surgeon Amir Anwary, known online as @Amirthevet, has issued an urgent health alert for owners of large dog breeds, including Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Boerboels, Bullmastiffs, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds. In a TikTok video, he explained that these breeds are at high risk of developing arthritis as they age due to their heavier weight putting pressure on joints.
Why Large Breeds Are at Risk
Anwary, a vet for seven years, highlighted that large breeds' joints break down faster as they age while rebuilding slows, leading to arthritis. He cited a recent case where he had to euthanise a Labrador whose joints were no longer functional, despite the dog being otherwise healthy. "I see this so often with large breed dogs that the reason they have to be put down is because their joints are simply not functional anymore," he said.
Preventive Measures
To protect joints while dogs are still young, Anwary recommends a combination of two supplements: a high-quality Omega-3 supplement as a natural anti-inflammatory, and a comprehensive joint supplement containing glucosamine, chondroitin, and collagen. These ingredients promote joint cartilage buildup and reduce breakdown, maintaining balance. He cautioned that many supplements on the market are not therapeutically dosed or readily absorbable for dogs, urging owners to choose good quality products.
