1. ENGLISH BULLDOG:When it comes to their physical appearance, the English Bulldog might not finish anywhere close to the top in a canine beauty contest, but that has not prevented them from becoming one of the most sought after breeds in the dog world. English Bulldogs are more prone to medical conditions such as allergies, cancer, eye problems, heart conditions, hip and elbow dysplasia, hyperthermia (over-heating), and skin problems.

2. GERMAN SHEPHERD:This popular breed is one of the most- recognized breeds in the world. The German Shepherd has made a name for itself as a working dog and also as a loyal pet that is often very protective. As a large breed, the German Shepherd has more than its share of health problems that may cost owners thousands(millions in Nigeria) in its 10years lifespan.The German Shepherd is particularly prone to health problems like allergies, cancer, degenerative myelopathy, gastrointestinal ailments, and hip and elbow dysplasia. The reduction in use of this breed as a working dog for military and police organizations is due in part to their susceptibility to these health problems.

3. CHOW CHOW:As one of the oldest known dog breeds in existence, the Chow Chow has a long history and was originally bred as a multi-purpose working dog. This breed has an extremely thick coat that could make it more likely to suffer with flea infestations, and they will also demand increased grooming and maintenance that can get a bit expensive. The health problems that are more likely to plague Chow Chows include autoimmune diseases, cancer, canine pemphigus, diabetes, and eye problems.

4. TIBETAN MASTIFF:This breed is certainly not as well-known as some of the others on this list, but those who own them value them for being extremely attentive watch dogs who are also very protective. They can grow quite large, with some males weighing close to 150 pounds or more. They also have extremely thick coats and they are prone to shedding, which can result in a lot of fur around during certain times of the year which may have to be cleaned up frequently. As far as health problems go, the Tibetan Mastiff is especially at risk for allergies, cancer, eye conditions, epilepsy, hip and elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and skin ailments.

5. IRISH WOLFHOUND:The Irish Wolfhound is the tallest dog breed in the world, and some can stand well over 30 inches tall at the shoulder. This is one of those cases where the cost of food could be significantly higher than for smaller breeds. In addition to other costs associated with the Irish Wolfhound’s large stature, they also are more vulnerable to some conditions that also afflict larger breeds such as bloat, eye problems, heart conditions, and of course, hip and elbow dysplasia.

6. GREAT DANE:The fact that this breed has become known as “The Heartbreak Breed” gives you a hint about the potential health concerns with this large canines. They are noted for their gentle disposition and friendly personality but they tend to be short-lived, often living for just six or eight years. During their short lives they are prone to experience medical issues that include bone cancer, gastric torsion, heart disease , and hip dysplasia. Most of these dogs grow to reach pretty impressive sizes and it can be a bit more costly to keep them fed compared to smaller dogs. They are also better for owners who have large yards for them to run around in or access to open spaces where they can get out and stretch their legs frequently.

7. ROTTWEILER:These dogs are sometimes given a bad rap
because people put them in the same class
as pit bulls, which are thought by some to
be more likely to be aggressive towards
people and other dogs. The Rottweiler is, in
fact, a very loving and protective breed that
was originally bred to be a working dog.
They are generally regarded as a medium
or
large breed and can grow to weigh as
much
as 130 pounds or a bit more, and stand
about 27 inches tall at the shoulder. Like
most of the other larger dogs that are
featured on this list, the Rottweiler is prone
to common health problems like cancer,
heart problems, eye trouble, as well as hip
and elbow dysplasia. For some reason
Rottweiler puppies also seem to be
particularly susceptible to the parvovirus,
which can often be deadly.
Harvested from www.freshstuffs.com.ng