Hypothesis #1 Nutritional Deficiency/Oversupplementation Large breed puppy was fed free choice Iams large breed dog food. If inappropriate foods are fed to puppies, especially fast growing large breed, growth abnormalities may occur. The muscle mass may exceed the boneÕs capacity to carry the weight. This may cause wear and tear on the joints. Also, nutritional problems may lead to cartilage deformities as well, causing joint pain.