Welcoming a new dog into your family is an incredibly rewarding and exciting experience, but it comes with various changes to your lifestyle. It’s no secret that dogs come in all different shapes and sizes, and you must decide what size suits you. You should know the pros and cons of adopting a large dog breed before making your final decision.
Pros
There are countless pros to owning a large dog, but we’ll go over the top three here. These advantages may be enough to sway you in the direction of a heavier four-legged friend.
Excellent Family Dogs
Because larger dogs are extra cuddly and larger in size, they make perfect family dogs. If you’re looking for a pup that can keep up with kids, you need a medium to large dog, such as a golden retriever. This large breed’s even temperament and owner loyalty make them the perfect addition to families.
They Bark Less
There’s nothing worse than constant barking, whether it’s your dog or your neighbor’s. Despite popular belief, most larger dogs bark much less than small breeds. Although most dogs will bark to alert you or when something startles them, small pups tend to be more vocal about their needs and wants. On the other hand, many larger breeds prefer to stay quiet.
Easier To Train
While all dog breeds are trainable, larger breeds tend to have higher intelligence levels. Fortunately, this makes them much easier to train due to their self-control and eagerness to learn. Many people think that larger breeds are out of control, but the opposite is true—they tend to be more obedient.
Cons
Although the advantages are plentiful, large dog breeds aren’t always the perfect pet. Unfortunately, these disadvantages are deal breakers for many people.
They Require More Exercise
Larger dogs require more exercise to stay mentally and physically healthy. They’re great for active families who enjoy being outdoors. However, this factor may not be a good thing for those seeking a couch potato or apartment pup.
Dog Hair Everywhere
When you have a big dog, pet hair will be everywhere. Those who suffer from pet allergies are more likely to struggle with larger dog breeds, but it’s worth it if you can manage the dander.
Large Dogs Cost More
Because they go through more toys, food, and other supplies, larger breeds tend to cost their owners more money. Furthermore, their vet bills may be more costly because they require larger medication doses and more preventative care.
Deciding for Yourself
Dog breeds come in all shapes and sizes because they work best for different purposes. Although many people prefer owning larger breeds, others know the many advantages of having a small dog companion. You must decide for yourself which breed size will best suit your lifestyle, but any dog is sure to brighten your life. After learning the pros and cons of adopting a large dog breed, you can decide whether or not it’s the right move for your family.
