Spring Safety Tips for Giant Breed Dogs

Sun’s out, slobber’s out.

There’s nothing quite like springtime with a big dog. The sunshine, the trails, the muddy paw prints on your white floors—it’s a season built for adventure. But before you hit the park or the path, it’s worth taking a few precautions to keep your gentle giant safe and feeling their best.

Giant breeds come with giant hearts—and some unique vulnerabilities. Here are a few spring safety tips to help your big dog enjoy the season without any surprises:

1. Don’t Overdo It on Warm Days

Big dogs overheat faster than you think. With their thick coats, larger body mass, and sometimes limited heat tolerance, giant breeds are more prone to heat exhaustion—even when it’s not scorching out.

Watch for signs of overheating:

• Excessive panting or drooling

• Sluggishness or wobbling

• Bright red gums or tongue

What to do:
Keep walks shorter during warmer parts of the day, bring water on outings, and take plenty of shady breaks. If the pavement is hot to the touch, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

2. Stay on Top of Flea & Tick Prevention

Spring means bugs—and not the cute kind.

Ticks and fleas become more active as temperatures rise, and tall grasses or wooded trails can be hotspots for both. Giant breeds may have more fur to hide these pests, making them harder to spot.

What to do:
Talk to your vet about a flea and tick prevention plan that works for your dog. Check them regularly after walks, especially around ears, under collars, and between toes.

3. Wipe Them Down After Walks

Spring is prime time for environmental allergies, and your dog’s coat is basically a pollen magnet. That sweet-smelling breeze you love? It’s also full of irritants that can lead to itching, sneezing, or even skin flare-ups.

What to do:
Keep a towel or pet-safe wipes by the door and give your dog a quick once-over after every walk. Focus on paws, belly, and legs—anywhere that brushes against grass and plants.

4. Watch for Toxic Plants and Mushrooms

Spring growth can bring unexpected dangers. Certain flowers, plants, and wild mushrooms are toxic to dogs—even in small amounts. Curious pups may sniff, lick, or chew something harmful before you even notice.

Common spring hazards include:

• Mushrooms (many species are toxic)

• Tulips, daffodils, lilies

• Fertilized lawns or gardens

What to do:
Practice the “leave it” command early and often. Keep a close eye on what your dog investigates during walks, and always call your vet or poison control if you suspect they ingested something questionable.

Final Thought: Sniff Everything. Eat Nothing.

Spring is a beautiful time to be a big dog. The scents, the sun, the mud—but it’s also a season for extra awareness.

With just a few simple habits, you can help your giant breed enjoy the season safely—and stay active, healthy, and happy well into summer.

So go ahead—sniff the flowers, chase the breeze, roll in the grass. Just maybe leave the mushrooms alone.