Should I get a big dog if I live in the city?

Background

Although residing in a busy city can be thrilling and interesting, it can also present some difficulties for our canine companions. Determining whether or not to get a large dog in a city, there are numerous factors to think about. The amount of space you have for the dog to exercise, the accessibility of dog-friendly parks and outdoor areas, and the amount of time you have to spend with the dog are a few things to think about.

History

Big dogs were more common in rural areas in the past since they were frequently utilized for hunting or as property guardians. Such dogs were less necessary as cities grew and became more urbanized, and city inhabitants began to favor smaller breeds. Big dogs have been maintained in cities more and more as pet ownership and animal companionship have increased. Despite the difficulties involved, many urban dwellers today decide to keep large dogs as pets.

Large Dog Breeds

Bernese Mountain Dog

One of the more well-known big breeds is the Bernese Mountain Dog, which has an eye-catching tri-colored coat. They are excellent drafting and hauling dogs who were raised in farms in their native Switzerland as hardworking, flexible dogs that thrive in the cold. Popular, sizable companion and family dogs, Bernese Mountain Dogs are noted for their outgoing personalities.

Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff, regarded as “the Gamekeeper’s Night Dog,” is the supreme guard dog and was created in the 19th century to protect private English game preserves and rural estates. The Bullmastiff is a highly trainable dog that responds well to early socialization and puppy training.

Dogue de Bordeaux

The Dogue de Bordeaux, another strong guard dog, is renowned for its expressive face and eyes and has the largest proportionate head of any breed. These dogs are kind and loving, but they are also known for being independent, so early training is important.

Cane Corso

The Cane Corso is a fearsome, powerful, and obedient breed. Although the Cane Corso was once on the edge of extinction, it is believed that its ancestors were ancient Greek guard dogs. The first Cane Corso entered the nation in 1988. Early socialization and training are important because to their protective and suspicious attitudes.

Great Dane

One of the most recognizable huge breeds, the Great Dane, was developed to hunt and guard against wild boars. These dogs make great friends because they are a sociable large breed. They are incredibly loving and vigilant stewards of their homes and family though. Great Danes are generally sociable and outgoing dogs.

Great Pyrenees

This regal breed is impressively large and easy to recognize by its typically long white coat. The breed was developed to support shepherds in their responsibilities and to protect livestock. The Great Pyrenees are known for their tolerance, independence, and valor in defending themselves against danger.

Leonberger

A Leonberger, which resembles a lion in appearance, makes an excellent watchdog and a multipurpose working dog. Unlike many other large breeds, the Leonberger was originally developed as a companion dog for European royalty. Nowadays, Leonbergers make devoted pets and are excellent cart or draft dogs.

Mastiff

The Mastiff is a noble, brave, and docile breed with a large, wrinkled brow. Early socialization is important for Mastiffs since they are naturally suspicious of strangers despite being known for their dedication and commitment to their families. There were just about 14 Mastiffs left in England following World War II. Later, breeders in the United States worked together to establish the breed’s population. Due to their emotional and sensitive nature, mastiffs benefit greatly from early positive reinforcement training.

Saint Bernard

The Saint Bernard, one of the most well-known large breeds, is a native of the Swiss Alps. The large and strong breed was initially created to find and save those who had become lost in the snow and buried by avalanches. The Saint Bernard has become well-known in movies and television and is adored by dog lovers thanks to its endearingly friendly look.

Golden Retriever

Family-friendly, trustworthy, and eager-to-please, golden retrievers are also relatively easy to train. They have a puppy-like enthusiasm and passion for life that they carry into maturity. These powerful, energetic hunting dogs love to play outside.

Advantages of getting a big dog in a city

  • Protection – Large dogs can be protective of their owners and their property, which can provide a sense of security in an urban environment.
  • Exercise – Large dogs require plenty of exercise and can be great companions for city dwellers who enjoy running, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
  • Companionship – Having a big dog can provide companionship and a sense of responsibility for city dwellers who may not have a lot of social interaction.
  • Deterrent – Large dogs can act as a deterrent to potential intruders or criminals, as their size and bark can be intimidating.
  • Therapy – Some large breeds have been trained as therapy dogs and can provide emotional support to people with mental health issues, disabilities or elderly person living alone.

Disadvantages of getting a big dog in a city

  • Space – Big dogs require more space to live and move around, which can be difficult to provide in a small apartment or house.
  • Training and management – Big dogs can be more challenging to train and manage than smaller breeds, and may require a more experienced owner.
  • Cost – Big dogs can be more expensive to care for than smaller breeds, due to their larger size and higher food and veterinary costs.
  • Noise – Large dogs may bark more often and louder than smaller breeds, which can lead to noise complaints from neighbors.
  • Attention – Big dogs require more attention, time, and energy to take care of their needs, which may not be feasible for someone who works long hours, have other commitments, or may not have the physical strength to handle them.
  • Regulations – Some cities have breed-specific legislation that may restrict or ban certain breeds of large dogs, making it difficult or impossible to own one.
  • Public concerns – Some people may be afraid of large dogs, and having a big dog in a city may lead to negative interactions with other people, including children, the elderly and people with disabilities, or other pet owners.

Facts

  1. Generally speaking, larger dogs need more space than smaller dogs. It could be challenging to provide your large dog adequate space to move about and feel comfortable if you are in a compact apartment or city home.
  2. In general, larger dogs need more activity than smaller dogs. In a city setting where there could be limited access to parks and open spaces, this can be challenging to supply.
  3. Large breeds are more likely to tug on the leash than smaller breeds, which can be dangerous in congested city areas.
  4. Large breeds often use more food and cost more to feed.
  5. The hip disorder is one health issue that several large breeds are predisposed to, and living in a metropolitan environment might make it worse.
  6. Big dogs can make excellent city companions, but before getting one, it’s necessary to think about your way of life and where you’ll be residing. In addition to having a plan for how to give them appropriate space and care, it’s critical to give them enough exercise and mental stimulation.

Conclusion

It’s important to consider the advantage and disadvantages before deciding to get a big dog in a city, and to ensure that you are able to provide for all the needs of your pet and comply with city laws and regulations regarding dog ownership.

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