When it comes to choosing a dog breed, size is often a major consideration. Some people are drawn to the idea of owning an extremely large dog, such as a Great Dane or Mastiff, due to their imposing stature, noble presence, and gentle personalities. While these breeds can make wonderful pets, there are significant downsides to owning a dog of such massive proportions. From high veterinary costs to limited mobility in small spaces, there are several challenges you may face when deciding to bring a Great Dane or Mastiff into your home.
In this article, we’ll explore the downsides of owning an extremely large dog like a Great Dane or Mastiff, focusing on the practical issues that potential dog owners should consider before committing to a breed of such large size.
1. Great Dane and Mastiff Health Issues
One of the most important factors to consider when owning a Great Dane or Mastiff is their health. While these dogs are known for their gentle nature, their large size comes with specific health challenges that smaller breeds simply don’t face.
Shorter Lifespan
The first downside that many potential pet owners don’t consider is the shorter lifespan of large dogs. Great Danes and Mastiffs are giant breeds, and unfortunately, this size often translates to a much shorter life expectancy compared to smaller dogs. On average, Great Danes live about 7 to 10 years, while Mastiffs may live around 6 to 10 years. This is a significant contrast to smaller breeds, which can live up to 15 years or more. The larger the dog, the more strain it places on its heart and joints, contributing to the relatively short lifespan.
Hip Dysplasia and Joint Issues
Large dogs like the Great Dane and Mastiff are more prone to joint problems, particularly hip dysplasia, where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly. Due to the weight they carry, these dogs are also susceptible to arthritis and other joint problems as they age. This can lead to a significant reduction in mobility, pain, and ultimately a diminished quality of life. Treatment for these conditions, such as surgery or medication, can also be costly.
Bloat and Gastric Torsion
Another serious health issue for giant dog breeds like the Great Dane and Mastiff is gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), commonly known as bloat. Bloat occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood flow and potentially leading to death within hours if not treated. Great Danes are particularly prone to this condition, and it’s a common cause of death for this breed. Preventing bloat often involves specific feeding habits, such as multiple smaller meals throughout the day, and limiting exercise immediately after eating.
2. High Food Costs
Feeding a Great Dane or Mastiff isn’t the same as feeding a smaller dog. Their sheer size means they eat significantly more food, which can add up to a hefty monthly expense. While smaller dogs typically eat about 1 to 3 cups of kibble per day, large breeds like the Great Dane can consume up to 8 cups of food per day, depending on their size, age, and activity level. This means that a typical 50-pound bag of dog food will likely last much shorter for a giant breed.
If you’re considering feeding a Great Dane or Mastiff, you’ll need to budget for larger amounts of food, often premium brands with higher protein and fat content to support their health. On average, you can expect to spend $100 to $200 per month just on dog food for one of these breeds, which is significantly higher than the cost of feeding a smaller dog.
3. Veterinary and Medical Costs
The medical costs of owning a Great Dane or Mastiff can be much higher than those of smaller breeds. Their large size means they’re more likely to suffer from health conditions that require expensive treatments, surgeries, or ongoing medication. Whether it’s joint surgery, bloat prevention, or heart treatments, these breeds can quickly rack up high veterinary bills.
Higher Veterinary Fees
Veterinary visits for a giant breed can also be more expensive because the treatments, medications, and equipment used are often larger and more costly. For example, a Great Dane may need special-sized equipment for procedures like X-rays, ultrasounds, or surgeries, which can increase the cost of treatment. Additionally, since they are more prone to certain health issues like heart disease, arthritis, and joint pain, your veterinarian visits may be more frequent and expensive.
Insurance Costs
Another factor to consider is pet insurance. While it’s always a good idea to have pet insurance for any breed, insuring a Great Dane or Mastiff can be significantly more expensive due to the higher cost of care. Policies for these breeds tend to be higher than those for smaller dogs, particularly if you want comprehensive coverage that addresses their unique health risks.
4. Exercise and Space Requirements
Great Danes and Mastiffs are not only large in size, but they also have specific exercise needs. While both breeds tend to have calm temperaments, they still require regular physical activity to stay healthy and maintain a good weight. However, the challenge lies in providing enough space and exercise for such large dogs, especially if you live in an apartment or a small house.
Space Constraints
Because of their large size, Great Danes and Mastiffs can feel cramped in small living spaces. These dogs are not ideal for apartment living unless you have access to a large yard or nearby open spaces. Even if you have a yard, it needs to be sizable enough to allow them to stretch their legs and engage in physical activity. A tiny backyard won’t cut it for a dog that can weigh over 100 pounds and stand several feet tall.
Exercise Needs
Both Great Danes and Mastiffs need regular exercise, though their energy levels vary. Mastiffs tend to be less energetic than Great Danes, but they still need walks and outdoor time to prevent obesity and keep their muscles toned. Lack of proper exercise can lead to weight gain, joint problems, and even behavioral issues like restlessness and anxiety. Daily walks, along with some playtime, are essential for these breeds, but the sheer physical strain on the owner can be difficult, especially if you have limited time or mobility.
5. Grooming and Maintenance
While both the Great Dane and Mastiff have short coats that require less grooming than long-haired breeds, they still shed, and they can produce a significant amount of hair. You’ll need to vacuum frequently to keep up with the shedding, especially during the shedding season. This can become a chore, especially given the size of the dog and the volume of hair they shed.
In addition to shedding, both breeds require regular maintenance to ensure they stay healthy. This includes keeping their nails trimmed, brushing their teeth, and checking their ears for infections. Great Danes and Mastiffs are also prone to certain skin conditions due to their large, heavy bodies, which may require more attention to keep their skin clean and free of irritants.
6. Impact on Daily Life and Mobility
Having an extremely large dog like a Great Dane or Mastiff can significantly impact your daily life. Their size alone can create obstacles that smaller dogs simply don’t. From the sheer physical difficulty of getting them in and out of vehicles to trying to find pet-friendly spaces that accommodate their size, owning a giant breed can make everyday activities more challenging.
Travel and Transport
Transporting a Great Dane or Mastiff can be quite a hassle. For example, you may need a larger vehicle to comfortably fit them, and traveling long distances may require additional planning for their comfort and care. Some hotels and vacation spots may not be accommodating for pets of such large size, limiting your travel options.
Household Adjustments
Living with a Great Dane or Mastiff also means you’ll need to adjust your home to accommodate their size. Furniture, doorways, and hallways may need to be reconfigured to make space for your large dog. Additionally, you’ll need to ensure that they have a comfortable resting area, such as a large dog bed, that won’t take up too much room.
7. Potential for Injury
Because of their sheer size and strength, Great Danes and Mastiffs can unintentionally cause injury to people or other pets, especially if they are overly excited or haven’t been trained to be gentle. Their large paws and muscular bodies can knock things over or accidentally injure children or smaller animals, which may be a concern if you have young kids or other pets in the household.
Conclusion
While Great Danes and Mastiffs are known for their gentle and loyal nature, owning one of these giant breeds comes with a host of challenges. From the high cost of food and medical care to their specific exercise and space needs, owning an extremely large dog can be both physically and financially demanding.
Before deciding to bring a Great Dane or Mastiff into your life, it’s essential to carefully consider the downsides and ensure you are prepared for the responsibilities that come with owning a dog of such massive proportions. Whether it’s managing their health issues, providing enough space, or meeting their exercise needs, these giant dogs require a level of commitment that may not be suitable for every potential pet owner.
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