So you’ve got your heart set on a big dog. Maybe you’ve always loved Golden Retrievers or dreamed of a Saint Bernard keeping you company. Before you rush out to adopt that giant puppy, though, you need to consider if a large dog is the right choice for you. While big dogs can make wonderful companions, they also require a major commitment to be cared for properly. Are you ready to put in the time, money, and effort to keep a large dog healthy and happy? If not, you may want to consider a smaller breed. Big dogs mean big responsibility, and it’s not always easy to have a large dog as part of your family.
Large Dogs Need More Space
Large dogs require a serious commitment to be cared for properly. Their sheer size means nearly everything about owning them is more demanding.
Space
Large dogs need more space, period. They require more room for sleeping, eating, and exercising. A tiny apartment or small house just won’t cut it for a big dog. They need space to roam, run, and play. Lack of space can lead to behavioral issues from excess energy and restlessness.
- Big dogs also need more spacious accommodations like extra-large crates, beds, and feeding areas. Everything has to be sized up to match. You’ll go through more food, more toys, and scoop much more poop. Speaking of which, you need a yard for that. Apartment living usually won’t work for large breeds.
- Living Space: A house with a yard is ideal. Apartments are usually too cramped.
- Crate/Bed: Get the largest size you can for their comfort.
- Food: Larger dogs require more and bigger bags of quality kibble to fuel their bigger bodies.
- Toys: Big dogs need big, durable toys that can withstand power chewing.
- Yard: Essential for exercise, play, and elimination. No yard means frequent walks, trips to the dog park, and accidents in the house.
While large dogs can make wonderful companions, the extra responsibility is significant. Before getting a big dog, honestly assess if you have the space, time, energy, and resources to properly care for one for life. Their needs are demanding, but for the right owner willing to commit to them, the rewards of their affection and loyalty are huge.
Big Dogs Can Be More Expensive
Big dogs aren’t for everyone. While their size and stature can be appealing, large breed dogs often come with some hefty responsibilities. One of the biggest factors to consider is cost – everything is more expensive for bigger dogs, from food to medical care.
Food
Large dogs require huge amounts of food to fuel their big bodies. You’ll be buying large bags of high-quality dry dog food, canned wet food, and treats. Even if you find good deals, you can expect to pay between $30 to $100 or more per month to feed your large breed. Giant breeds like Great Danes can cost $200-$500 per month or more in food alone. Make sure you budget properly for your big buddy’s appetite!
Medical Expenses
Not only does a large dog eat more, but medical care also tends to cost more. Things like flea/tick prevention, heartworm medication, vaccinations, and other essential care will be higher priced for an XL pooch. Any procedures like spaying or neutering, dental cleanings, or surgeries will also carry a heftier price tag. It’s a good idea to get pet insurance for a large breed to help budget for unexpected vet costs. Without it, a single medical emergency could cost thousands of dollars.
Supplies
You’ll need to buy bigger and sturdier versions of everything from food and water bowls, beds, crates, leashes, and collars to toys that can withstand heavy chewing and play. Large breed puppies, in particular, require lots of gear as they grow quickly. Be prepared to size up to the extra large version of most supplies to properly care for your big dog.
While big dogs are certainly rewarding companions, make sure you fully understand the significant responsibility that comes with caring for a large breed. Big dogs equal big expenses, so ensure your wallet and lifestyle can handle it before getting a giant fur baby. If cost is a concern, you might want to consider a smaller breed of dog instead.
Training and Socializing a Large Dog Takes Extra Time
Training and socializing a large dog takes a major time commitment. These dogs require extensive attention, exercise, and training to become well-adjusted canine citizens.
House Training
House training a large breed puppy is especially time-consuming. Their small bladders mean frequent trips outside, sometimes as often as once an hour. Accidents will happen, and cleaning them up requires more time and effort. You’ll need to closely supervise a large puppy indoors and keep them confined when you can’t watch them. The entire house training process can take 4-6 months of diligent consistency.
Obedience Training
Basic obedience training is essential for a large dog. Sitting, staying, coming when called, and walking calmly on a leash are necessities. You’ll need to invest in professional training classes or work extensively with your dog at home. Either way, training a large breed requires repetition, rewards, and patience. These dogs can be more difficult to physically handle, so training them while they’re still small and manageable is critical.
Exercise and Play
Providing enough exercise and play for a large dog demands a major time commitment. These breeds need a minimum of 60-120 minutes of activity per day to stay happy and well-behaved. Long walks, hikes, swimming, fetch, and tug-of-war are all options. Without adequate stimulation, large dogs can become bored, and restless, and develop behavioral issues.
Socialization
Early positive socialization is key to a large dog becoming a friendly, easygoing companion. You’ll need to expose your dog to many different people, pets, places, and experiences. Invite friends over, take your dog on errands, arrange playdates, and sign up for a puppy socialization class. Proper socialization requires many hours of interaction and can continue for your dog’s first 18 months.
While large dogs can make wonderful lifelong friends, they are not low-maintenance pets. Be prepared to invest the time and effort required to raise a happy, healthy, well-adjusted large-breed dog. With patience, consistency, and lots of love, you’ll be rewarded with an amazing canine companion.
Travel and Transportation Difficulties
Traveling with a large dog can be challenging for many reasons. Their size alone makes it difficult to transport them comfortably and safely.
Limited Space
Large dogs take up a lot of space in vehicles, especially smaller cars. They may not fit well in a typical backseat or trunk area. You’ll have trouble finding room for their necessities like food, bowls, leashes, toys, bedding, and more. Renting a larger vehicle for trips is an option, but that adds to the overall cost and hassle.
Difficulty Boarding
Not all boarding facilities, especially smaller ones, can properly accommodate very big dogs. Their size may exceed the dimensions of standard kennels and play areas. Some places charge higher rates for large breed boarding due to the extra space required. You’ll need to do research ahead of time to find suitable boarding options for your oversized pal.
Health Risks
Long periods of confinement during travel can lead to discomfort, soreness, and even health issues in large dogs. Their bigger bodies need more room to stretch out, sit up, stand, and lie down naturally without feeling cramped. Blood flow can become restricted, muscles can cramp, and joints can become stiff. It’s important to stop frequently to let them move around, exercise and relieve themselves. You’ll also want to have water and any medications on hand that they may need.
While the challenges of traveling with a big dog can be frustrating, many owners find the rewards of their companionship worth the extra effort. With some planning and the willingness to meet their special needs, you can ensure safe, comfortable travel experiences for your large furry friend. The unconditional love of a dog isn’t defined by its size or how easily it fits into your vehicle! Focusing on enjoying quality time together despite the logistical difficulties will make the challenges worthwhile.
Potential Health Issues in Large Breed Dogs
Large breed dogs often come with some potential health issues to be aware of due to their size and genetics. Some things to keep in mind:
Hip and elbow dysplasia
Large breeds are prone to joint disorders like hip and elbow dysplasia, which is an abnormal formation of the joints that can lead to pain, decreased mobility, and arthritis. Look for signs like decreased activity, difficulty rising, limping, or pain. Early diagnosis and treatment, such as medication or even surgery, can help improve quality of life.
Gastric torsion (bloat)
Large, deep-chested dogs can be prone to gastric torsion, also known as bloat, where the stomach twists and fills with gas. This is a life-threatening emergency and requires immediate surgery. To help prevent bloat, feed your dog multiple smaller meals throughout the day instead of one large meal, avoid exercise right after eating, and consider an elevated food bowl.
Heart disease
Some large breeds are predisposed to heart disease and heart failure due to their size. Conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), where the heart muscle weakens, can often be managed well with early diagnosis and treatment but require close monitoring and medication. Yearly vet checks, especially as your dog ages, are important to screen for any heart abnormalities.
Shortened lifespan
On average, large-breed dogs have shorter lifespans than smaller breeds. While a mixed breed or smaller dog may live 12-15 years, many large breeds live only 8-10 years. Some extra-large breeds may only reach 6-8 years. Providing the best care with regular vet checkups, a healthy diet, exercise, and keeping your dog at an ideal weight can help maximize lifespan, but their size still contributes to health issues that can shorten their lives.
Owning a large breed dog is rewarding but also a big responsibility. Being aware of breed-specific health issues, keeping your dog at a healthy weight, and establishing a good relationship with your vet can help give your big pal the best chance at a long, happy life. While their size may limit lifespan, you can still enjoy many memorable years together with the right care and nutrition.
Conclusion
So there you have it, some key reasons why large dogs aren’t for everyone. While big pooches can make great companions, they require a major time and financial commitment to care for properly. If you have a busy lifestyle, live in a small home, or are on a tight budget, a smaller breed is probably a better choice. Don’t feel like you have to get a huge dog just to prove your love of animals or to feel more secure. The most important thing is that you pick a pet that fits your situation so you can give it the life it deserves. Think it over carefully and go with what works for you – your perfect companion may come in a smaller package!