Should I Adopt a Large Dog?

Have you always dreamed of adopting a large dog? Adopting is a great way to help combat overpopulation, and large dogs often spend the most time in shelters. These gentle giants have captured our hearts on-screen and in real life for decades: From statuesque Lassie to heartwarming, goofy Beethoven, they’ve left a mark on our culture. 

But before you leap into adopting a large dog, carefully weigh if you’re prepared for the medical, living space, and exercise responsibilities that come with being a pet parent to one. Whether you dream of exploring with a St. Bernard or watching reality TV with a Great Dane, find out if a large breed dog is right for you.

Big personalities and big responsibilities

Adopting a large breed dog comes with plenty of fun, but it also comes with sizable responsibilities. Before bringing one of these big canines into your home, it’s essential to consider the pros and cons of pet-parenting them.  

Pros of adopting a large breed dog

The perks of getting a large breed dog are almost as hard to ignore as the dogs themselves. Here are a few of the biggest reasons you may find yourself saying, “I want to adopt a large dog.” 

1. Loyal guardians: Large breed adoption is appealing to many families because of the natural protective instinct of these canines. Many large breeds began as working dogs or were bred to rescue humans from dangerous situations. Even if you opt for a less traditionally protective buddy like a Bernese Mountain Dog or a Great Dane, their size alone may offer some protection by deterring potential intruders. 

2. Active lifestyle partners: How much exercise do these dogs need? Most large dogs need a good amount of physical activity, making them a great choice to bring along on adventures. Whether hiking through rugged trails or playing fetch in the park, they’ll be happy to tag along. 

3. Gentle giants: Despite their imposing size, many large dogs are incredibly gentle and affectionate. They often form deep bonds with their humans and are known for their sweet and loving nature. From gentle kisses to cozy hugs, they have an affinity for melting hearts.

4. Great with families: Large dogs are often excellent companions for families, especially those with children. Many are known for their patience, tolerance, and gentle demeanor around kids, making them cherished members of the household. With enough training and socialization, big dogs can become beloved playmates and loyal protectors for children of all ages. (And if you also have cats, check out our guide on how to introduce your new dog to a scared cat.) 

5. Their presence: There’s something undeniably majestic about the presence of a large breed dog. They command attention wherever they go, making them an excellent choice for social pet parents. Their impressive size and dignified demeanor make them a conversation starter for many pet parents. 

Things to consider before adopting a large dog

From senior care to puppy challenges, big dogs have unique needs in every stage of life. Here are some things to consider before adopting a large dog.

1. Higher food and medical costs

Bigger dogs can come with bigger expenses. Large breed dogs eat more food than their smaller counterparts, increasing grocery or pet store bills. Additionally, medical expenses, including routine vet visits, medications, and treatments for health issues, can be more costly due to their size.

2. Space requirements

As with any new dog, your home needs to be adjusted to their needs. How much space do these dogs need? Large breed dogs need ample space to move around comfortably. Living in a small apartment might not be ideal for these giants, because they require more room to stretch out and play. Even a large couch potato needs room to stretch out their paws.

Make sure you have enough room for them to move around. And create a safe, comfortable space where they can rest and play.

3. Exercise needs

Many large-breed dogs have a lot of energy and need regular exercise to stay fit and prevent boredom. It’s important to keep them in good physical condition to avoid putting extra strain on their bodies. Adopters should be prepared for the time and effort required to meet these needs.

Whether that’s a long daily walk, a trip to the dog park, or even agility training — large dog adoption means committing to their exercise needs. Build time into your routine to provide ample exercise for your pup. 

4. Training is crucial

Large breed dogs (like any other pups) need consistent training and socialization from an early age to ensure they grow into well-behaved adults. Their size makes establishing good manners and obedience from an early age crucial. Poorly trained large dogs can become challenging to manage and may exhibit undesirable behaviors that are harder to control.

5. Financial considerations

From higher food bills to more expensive medical care, make sure you’re financially ready to handle the additional expenses that come with a big dog. It’s a good idea to set aside savings to cover costs as they arise. 

6. Time commitment

You’ll need to dedicate time to exercise, training, grooming, and bonding with your dog. Be sure you can commit to this before bringing a large breed dog into your home.

Tips for successfully adopting a large dog

Tip 1: Research and choose the right dog for your lifestyle

Not all large dogs have the same temperament and activity level. Research different breeds (and their mixes) to find one who matches your lifestyle and living situation.

Tip 2: Properly prepare your home and living space

Make your home friendly for large dogs by ensuring there’s enough space for them to move around and rest comfortably. Invest in durable furniture and dog-proof your home to prevent damage.

Tip 3: Invest in training and socialization from the beginning

Start training and socializing your dog as soon as possible. This will help them develop good behavior and adjust well to different environments and situations.

Tip 4: Ensure you have time and resources to meet the dog’s needs

If you’re thinking, “I want to adopt a large dog,” you must have the time, energy, and financial resources to meet their needs. Regular exercise, quality food, and routine vet visits are essential for a healthy, happy pup.

So, is large-dog adoption for you?

Adopting a large dog can bring tons of joy and fulfillment to your life, but it requires careful consideration and preparation. By weighing the pros and cons, understanding the responsibilities involved, and taking proactive steps to meet your new family member’s needs, you can have a successful and rewarding adoption experience. With the proper care and attention, these loyal, affectionate pups will become cherished members of your family. 

Commonly asked questions

What are the best large dog breeds?

Some of the best large dog breeds known for their loyalty, temperament, and versatility include German Shepherd Dogs, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Great Danes. For more details on these and breeds, check out our comprehensive guide.

What are the best dog breeds for families?

Some of the best dogs for families are patient, protective “nanny dogs,” such as Pit Bulls. Other breeds particularly well-suited for families include the Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Boxer. These breeds are known for their patience, friendliness, and gentle demeanor with children. 

How much yard space do you need for a large dog?

While a fenced yard is ideal for any dog, even large dogs can be happy in an apartment or city-living situation if their needs are met in other ways. If you want to adopt a large dog in an apartment or urban environment, have plenty of time for walks and excursions to socialize and exercise together. 

References

Big Dogs Versus Small Dogs: Which Sizes Face Higher Risks of Which Diseases?