But while there are a lot of benefits to a large dog joining your family, there are some considerations pet parents need to keep in mind, too. Giant breeds typically take 18β24 months to reach their full size, but most of that growth occurs before they are a year old. Families with children should also be mindfulβwhile many large dog breeds are gentle giants, they can accidentally knock over young kids. Big dogs need more food than their smaller cousins.
That all means bigger dogs will generally cost more than small dog breeds , because they need more of just about everything. Big dog breeds are especially prone to certain health conditions. Common concerns that pet parents should be aware of include bloat and gastric dilatation-volvulus GDV , hip dysplasia , wobbler syndrome , and hypothyroidism.
In general, big dogs also tend to have shorter lifespans than smaller breeds. All dogs need to be socialized and trained starting in puppyhood , but it is especially important for big dogs. Irish Wolfhounds are often cited as the tallest dog breed in the world, with some reaching up to 3 feet in height measured at the shoulder when standing on all four legs!
However, Irish Wolfhounds are prone to health problems such as hip dysplasia and life-threatening GDV, and they have a lifespan of only 6β8 years. These dogs tend to have sensitive personalities and, like all other dogs, respond best to training that uses positive reinforcement. Instead, these giant dogs were bred in Germany to work as hunters and guardians. Great Danes, which are one of the biggest dogs in the world, tend to be quiet and gentle. But they do need plenty of space to get enough exercise.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are big dogs with even bigger hearts. Originally bred in Switzerland and brought to the US as farm dogs, these affectionate pups are now mostly family pets. Originally trained by monks for avalanche search-and-rescue missions, Saint Bernards are now great family dogs that are great companions for children. These big dogs are affectionate, loyal, and have a low prey drive. A giant among giants, Mastiffs are one of the biggest dogs in the world. These giant couch potatoes are content with naps in the sun and need their pet parents to take them on walks so they get enough exercise.
