Our personal experience is what influences us most in our opinions. But if we don’t have it or can’t get it at least from a friend or family member, it is more difficult for us to imagine how living with a giant furry friend looks like. And if it comes with greater responsibility or higher care needs. My answer is: yes and no. I was lucky enough that we once got such a giant for our home, more specifically an Irish wolfhound. And it was the best decision we could do, no matter the sad fact related to the age this breed usually dies in. Giant breeds sometimes remind me more humans than dogs by their nature. They have great personalities and they are calm inside. To have them around means to be safe to me. That is also one of the reasons why living with a giant is significantly different from living with a small dog.
Our personal experience is what influences us most in our opinions. But if we don’t have it or can’t get it at least from a friend or family member, it is more difficult for us to imagine how living with a giant furry friend looks like. And if it comes with greater responsibility or higher care needs. My answer is: yes and no. I was lucky enough that we once got such a giant for our home, more specifically an Irish wolfhound. And it was the best decision we could do, no matter the sad fact related to the age this breed usually dies in. Giant breeds sometimes remind me more humans than dogs by their nature. They have great personalities and they are calm inside. To have them around means to be safe to me. That is also one of the reasons why living with a giant is significantly different from living with a small dog.
Moreover, for those who love giant breeds is unimaginable that their dog doesn’t take up most of or in a perfect case the whole sofa or bed :). And even though there is no official height or weight for the so-called giant dog breeds that would differentiate them from other “normally” big dogs, you won’t definitely overlook a giant dog. Everywhere you go, it gets you at least a bit of attention. It does not only attract the attention by its giant body but also by its great heart and kindness which I have already mentioned and which you can see in its eyes. Besides wolfhounds, also St. Bernards, mastiffs or newfoundland dogs belong to giant breeds. We could find more and more breeds but this list should only serve to get the general idea.
But what does living with a giant dog bring? There are definitely many advantages as well as disadvantages. Therefore, giant breeds are not for anyone as I’ve already written. Their big advantage is the feeling of safety they can surround you with when they are around. Besides that, I was never afraid to walk anywhere anytime with my four-legged companion, during the day or at night with no difference because I knew that not only it commands respect but it will also protect me. I was fascinated with that peace and ease it radiated. And because I am a dog person who doesn’t only enjoy running with a dog in the woods but also the occasional cuddling with a furry friend, I really found my best friend in our wolfhound. Although it might not seem like that from the first sight, giant dogs are usually incredible cuddlers.
But it also has certain disadvantages. Firstly, the costs are higher, both for food and for vet care. A larger dog simply eats more. And you also cannot pick just any food. For his body to grow properly, it is necessary not to hurry and give a giant breed puppy as quality food as possible. The costs for vet care are usually also a bit higher. You should be aware of the fact that they are very often over-bred breeds which are more prone to various genetic defects. Last but not least, they also need enough exercise. A garden is fine but unless they have walked kilometres and kilometres, they are not happy. For us and our dog, several-hour-long walks in the woods were standard. And also, several hours of cleaning when the weather outside was bad.
From this point of view, we could say there is bigger responsibility but it may not be about responsibility but about more demanding work and investments. And from my point of view it’s worth it. And the one that definitely pays back. However, I recommend you to thoroughly consult a dog keeper before getting a giant breed dog. You may find out that it’s exactly what you need. And you may also find out that a smaller dog is more suitable for you.
And what is your experience with giant breeds? What do you like about them most or do you prefer smaller dogs?
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