As someone who has set up a website that sells pet products for large dogs, you can imagine, I love big dogs. I do also love small dogs, but the big ones have a special place in my heart.
So, for a big of fun, thought I’d share 12 reasons that I recon we love our big dogs:
- A big dog means a big heart. Sure, physically their hearts are larger than those of small dogs, but so is the love that they give. Some dogs act as shadows and follow you everywhere. Others nuzzle you, others love to lean … or simply cuddle up at your feet and just be your best friend.
- A big dog will likely also be the protector of your family; let’s face it, someone hears that big boy bark and they won’t think twice about messing with you or helping themselves to the contents of your home. If you’re out at night walking (especially if you’re a woman) and you’re with a big dog, you’ll feel much safer too.
- Any dog, but especially a big dog can definitely be an ice breaker. I recall introducing myself to a Great Dane and his owners. His name was Popcorn and he was a gentle giant; I just had to say hello and give him a pat. In fact, if I’m away, camping or at the beach and I see a lovely dog, I’ll definitely want to say hi. If you’re single, especially a man, then dogs are great date magnets. I’m not in any way saying get a dog just to get a date, but hey, if you have one perhaps make a point of taking your pooch for a walk more often. If you don’t have a dog, perhaps you can offer to walk the dog of a friend or family member. Dogs rarely say no to walks … although I certainly saw a few jokes during COVID where the dog was hiding from the owner, who had a lead in their hand … with a caption of the dog saying: “NOOOOO – no more walking!!!!”.
- The bigger the dog the more they tend to need exercise. I’m generalising of course, but it's a reasonable rule of thumb. I know when I began babysitting my son’s Shepperd Theo (aka my grandpuppy, aka our ‘Product Destruction Tester’) I really had to pick up the pace. Those long legs of his are pretty dang long and I’m sure I burnt off a good number of calories walking at ‘Theo Pace’. So, a big dog usually means you will naturally get more exercise and what Doctor has ever said to someone ‘get less exercise’?
- Larger dogs generally are good for more prolonged outdoor activities and excursions. My big boys will spend ages on the beach, chasing my kayak, swimming, running and being outside. They usually love hiking (naturally take care of where you go as National Parks don’t allow dogs), camping and many other outdoor activities.
- They are at a perfect height to pet, without having to bend over. In fact, with my big boys, their head height is at a perfect ear scratching height. No stress on you knees and back!
- Many larger dogs shed their hair, rather than needing to be taken to the groomer every 6 weeks. Not all of course, but it’s quite common. So sure, you might spend more on food, but you’ll save on grooming costs … so that’s a good thing too.
- They don’t mind their size. Have you ever had a 39 kilo dog park his bottom in your lap, like he thinks he’s a lap dog? It’s gorgeous and is sure to make you smile. Most dogs love to cuddle … your big dog as much as any.
- Large dogs can be like your own personal electric blanket in winter. Who needs extra heating or blankets when you’ve got your own personal blanket next to you?
- Let’s not forget the big dogs who work. Shepperds who work for the Police or the Military are just one example. The St. Bernard had his place in saving lives. You won’t see a little poodle or dachshund working in security. Larger dogs have served their country, helped our Police protect us and have earned a place in our hearts with gratitude.
- Larger dogs (in my personal view) tend to be less fussy eaters. Left over veges on the kids’ plates can go into your dog’s bowl. Your big dog will often appreciate a variety of food, including rice, veges and meat or chicken off our dinner plates. Just remember though that there are some human foods which are not good for any dog and naturally don’t feed your best friend foods which are not nutritious for them, or over feed them. If they get healthy extras, be sure to adjust their meal size accordingly. Plus too, never any cooked bones.
- All dogs, large and small, make amazing companions and fill a part of our lives. They keep us company. If you come home after a few hours, they will be just excited to see you; not giving you an earful that ‘you’re late’. They entertain us with some funny antics at times (just love watching Theo do his zoomies in the morning), they give their love to us almost unconditionally. Look into those big brown eyes (or perhaps blue in some occasions) and how can you not love man’s best friend?!
There are many, many reasons why we love our bigger, large dogs – how could you not – but please remember to love them back. Big dogs need exercise, brushing, visits to the vet for their immunisations, worming and other care. When you take on a dog, you take on those responsibilities. Keeping them happy, safe, healthy and exercised. Make sure they have plenty of fresh water (especially in summer when they have a big thirst) and no dog (big or small) should be left in a hot car, even just ‘for a minute’. Big dogs have big hearts; return that love with care and love.
The photo for this blog is Theo and Caesar enjoying some fun in the sun. Theo (foreground) is sporting our ‘Sporn Head Control Halter’ for dogs that pull. It’s great for these activities because I can remove the lead, whilst still leaving the halter on him, without it falling off or getting caught up in his feet. Then after play, it’s quick and easy to put the lead back on. Or, if you’re looking for orthopedic beds, large water bowls, leads or collars for large dogs, check out our products here.