August 9, 2023August 21, 2023

Love is No Small Thing: Consider Adopting a Big Dog

In Animal-related Information, Pets
Love is No Small Thing: Consider Adopting a Big Dog

Sitting dog with black fur, with shades of light brown and white

Adopting a Large-Breed Dog

From huskies to shepherds, to hounds to marvelous mystery mixes, animal shelters and rescue groups all over the country are struggling to find homes for larger-breed dogs. 

Big dogs can be a ton of fun. And you might be surprised to learn that many need less space and exercise than you think. 

Sadly, due to misconceptions about space and care they require, these loveable goofballs don’t find homes as easily as their smaller counterparts. 

This is true at the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, too. Sometimes, a big dog’s length of stay* is longer than a small dog or puppy. 

What is considered a “big” dog?

In addition to being cuddle buddies, bed warmers (and hogs), and premier walking or running partners, big dogs are generally identified as pups who weigh more than 50 pounds.

There are misconceptions about big dogs, their behavior, their temperaments, and what they need to thrive in a home. Big dogs, like all animals, are individuals, each with a unique personality and preferences.

While some are giant couch potatoes, others require a lot of exercise. Some are independent, while others are glued to your side every chance they get. 

Big dogs can make great companions for a variety of families. Below are some reasons large-breed dogs make wonderful pets: 

  • Big dogs usually bark less than small breed dogs. 
  • Big dogs tend to have milder personalities, greater self-control, and higher tolerance for young children compared to small dogs.
  • Some large dogs can make excellent pets for apartment living. Not every large dog requires a lot of exercise, so they can thrive in smaller spaces or without yards.
  • A big dog breed – Labrador Retriever – has topped AKC’s “Most Popular Dog Breed” list for 31 years straight (until this year). Other big dog breeds also make the top 10 list.
  • Many large breed dogs are great with children and make excellent family pets due to their gentle and patient nature.
  • Big dogs are loyal and can be easy to train and assimilate into routines. 
  • According to a study by the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna, big dogs are statistically better in three categories: obedience, aggression and excitability, and anxiety and fearfulness. 

Love is no small thing …

While we want you to seriously think about adopting a big dog, there are some other aspects of adopting a larger dog to consider. 

  • Large dogs come with larger stomachs, so that means feeding them will cost a bit more. Heartworm and flea and tick prevention will also cost more.
  • In addition, bigger dogs will need bigger toys, crates, beds, etc.
  • All animals require some exercise and mental stimulation every day, but some large breed dogs need more activity than others to live a happy, healthy, stress-free life. Definitely consider the dog’s activity needs and age when adopting.
  • Big pups need training. Small dogs can get away with unwanted behavior (like jumping on you), but it’s more of a nuisance when a 50+ pound dog hops on you.
  • If you rent, you’ll want to check with your landlord about pets. Some properties may flatout refuse all animals, but others may have size or breed restrictions. 
  • Large dogs can also be strong dogs, so handling them can sometimes require more physical strength.
  • Traveling – whether by plane or car – can be a little harder with a large dog, but not unmanageable.  

Remember, adopting any dog, regardless of size, is a big responsibility and requires careful consideration of their needs and your lifestyle. Proper training, socialization, and care are essential to ensure a happy and healthy life for your furry friend.

Adopting from the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria

We have many incredible animals available for adoption, including large dogs! Thanks to a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, we are able to get to know our animals well, including their personalities, likes, and dislikes. We also have some idea as to what type of environment we think they will flourish in.

Our adoption team makes every effort to work with potential adopters to find an animal that will fit their lifestyle.

While we’d love for you to “love large” and adopt a big dog, we have many other animals available for adoption, including rabbits, guinea pigs, gerbils, cats, kittens, puppies and small dogs.

*The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria does not euthanize for space or length of stay. Animals can stay with us for as long as needed to find them a suitable and loving home.

By Erin Shackelford, Marketing and Communications Specialist

Source: Best Friends Animal Society, Big Dog Campaign