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Thinking About Adopting a Large-Breed Dog as a Family Pet – Top Things to Consider First

Have your kids been on your case about getting a large-sized dog for quite some time now and you feel you’re finally ready to take on the responsibility? Then again, maybe it’s you that has been dreaming of adding to your family by adopting a big dog that you can have some fun with and love unconditionally. While it’s true that the bond you have with a dog will be so special that you will cherish it forever, there is a lot to consider before moving ahead with adoption.

large dog

Here’s a look at some things to consider first before adopting a large breed dog.

Do You Have Enough Space Indoors and Outdoors?

By choosing to go down the route of a large breed dog, it is necessary to examine just how much space you have inside and outside the home. These dogs are big, they weigh a lot, they take up a lot of space. With that said, they also need space outdoors to move around, stretch their legs, and get exercise. Now just because you don’t have a big sprawling yard, it doesn’t mean you can’t have a large breed dog – it just means you need to be prepared to take regular daily walks with them.

What Breed is Best for Your Family and Your Lifestyle?

Another thing to think about is what type of breed would best fit with your family and your lifestyle. This blog from CannaCompanion, which offers cannabis wellness products for dogs and cats, can be particularly helpful when it comes to learning about the different large breeds and taking care of a large breed dog. It outlines six of the most popular large breeds out there, which are the golden retriever, German shepherd, collie, Bernese mountain dog, Alaskan malamute, and the Rottweiler. Each one is unique and has its own list of pros and cons, which are well worth reading up on.

Are You Prepared for All the Financial Expenses?

All dogs carry with them financial expenses. There are the vet bills, food, annual vaccinations, supplies, and possibly the services of a dog walker or dog sitter. Now with that said, the bills you will pay for a large breed dog will most definitely be higher than that of a small breed dog. When you think about how much food these large dogs go through, the fact you need a larger crate, a bigger bed, etc., the expenses can add up fast.

What About Training?

Training for all dogs is important but when you own a large breed dog that can be intimidating to others and even causes injury to others by accident or on purpose, it’s important that you train them well and stay in control. If you have a dog with a strong personality that is more the alpha type, then you’re probably best to go down the route of a professional dog trainer or a dog training class.

Making an Informed Decision

Adopting a dog as a family pet will arguably be the best thing you can do for your family if you go into the decision informed, prepared, and ready to take on the responsibility and work that will be required of you.

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