Large Dog Breeds: Pros and Cons of Owning a Large Dog

"The American Kennel Club has stated that fewer and fewer people have been registering large dogs. This may be because of the growing migration from rural areas into the city. Big dogs are what most people think of when they think of dogs. These loyal, affectionate companions love to run alongside you in the park, fetch whatever you feel like throwing, and laying with you in front of the television. However, you must actually think it through: is a large dog what you need in your life right now? What are the cons of having a large dog? And finally, can you handle taking care of these gentle beasts' many needs?

Big dogs may look scary, but many are very loyal. A Rottweiler, when trained well, will be superbly protective of their area, but defer to their owner rather than trying to suss out danger for themselves. If you live in the suburbs or on a farm, a large-breed dog may be what you're looking for. They do need plenty of room to run around and exercise in, so reconsider a large dog if you are living in cramped quarters. Sporting breeds need room to run and get depressed if they do not, and most dogs just like to have the freedom that comes with having a big backyard. As briefly mentioned above, many large dogs can become amazing family dogs, and even better watch dogs. Many of these dog breeds are protective of children that they know are part of their family circle.

For the most part, a big dog means a good trainee. They are more than eager to please their masters. It comes with being so loyal! Whether it is ""sit"", ""come"", ""lay down"", or ""roll over"", large dogs just have a paw up on their smaller counterparts for being the more trainable pet. Most dogs are generally calm and can actually do alright in small living spaces providing they get enough time (an hour or two per day) outside running around. They love to nap on beds and sofas whether with you or without.

Of course, there is a huge variance on the temperament and behavior of large-breed dogs. Make sure to look up and study whatever dog you wish to adopt into your home. Make sure their activity levels, grooming requirements, and living habits suit you, so that you can be a suitable companion to your dog and vice versa.

Before you run out of the house to get yourself a big dog, remember that there are some cons that go with such big pups, too. They cost more: almost everything about them is more expensive than small pups. Veterinary care. Food. Dog toys. The only thing that doesn't cost more is the actual large-breed dog itself, which is usually less expensive than little dog breeds.

You have to make sure that you're ready to train big dogs. Big dogs can present more danger than little ones. Also, their life spans are often quite short. In general, the rule of thumb is ""the larger the dog, the shorter the lifespan"", unfortunately.

Whether you settle on a Retriever, a Shepherd, a Boxer, or a Rottweiler, remember that any dog may have behavioral problems. Make sure to discipline your dog if it caught chewing on things, barking at people needlessly, or constantly bringing you object to throw for them. You are the boss, and you have to make this known to them.

If, once considering these pros and cons, you decide to go ahead for a large dog, you will find a pet who will be beside you for the rest of their life. They are loyal, and, as huge as they may become, if you get them when they are young they will always be your little puppy. Just don't shy away when it's time to clean up their house-sized poop!"

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