Dog Owners
Introduction
Owning a dog for many families and especially children brings a sense of enthusiasm and excitement of the prospect. Humans and canines form a special bond that sometimes exceeds expectations. Dogs form suitable pets across many families compared to other domestic animals like cats. Moreover, they come in various breeds, characteristics and sizes and those that can fit happily into various lifestyles and environments. However, when considering owning a dog, many factors come into play in which potential dog owners should carefully analyze. Many families and dog owners find themselves in dilemmas because hardly any of them take the time to evaluate and determine whether their family, children or spouse are ready to own a dog.
Owning a large breed dog
Foremost, prospective dog owners should understand that owning a dog entails a lot of commitment including financial commitment that will cater for the dog during its lifetime. The major factor for most dog owners is the issue of the costs of owning a dog. Many families and individuals often calculate the costs of food and buying and consequently underestimate the real costs of owning that pet. The hard facts of owning a dog and especially a large breed dog should assess the extremely important considerations with some of the overlooked reasons. Owning a dog is a big investment which will cost money and tremendous amount of time.
A large breed dog usually brings a lot excitement and fun mostly for children. The majority of dogs which are listed in American Kennel Club in the top half are mainly large dog breeds (Fogle, 2000). Moreover, when choosing a dog whether a large breed or a small breed, learning about its characteristics is the most important step in owning the dog. Popular large breeds include the Mastiff, Great Dane, German shepherd, Newfoundland and Labrador. Most dogs owned are home dogs which spend more time indoors in many American homes. A small dog can get most of its exercise in a small apartment, but in most cases a dog which is active ranging from medium to large size will do reasonably well in a larger apartment with a fenced yard in order to exercise safely. Common sense and adaptability will call for a potential dog owner to estimate the realistic space compared to the activity of a probable dog size.
The fact in owning a large breed dog is that they require more space, more food and more energy compared to small needs. Therefore, potential dog owners with small apartments will certainly have a dilemma in providing the essential space for the dog and thus should deliberate on the facts before taking that step of buying a dog. The larger the dog, the higher the energy requirements, which consequently translates to more food leading to more expenses. These dogs also need a lot of time outdoors for exercise and also for their bodies to adjust to various temperatures. An outdoor dog has energy requirements which is 25% higher compared to an indoor dog, thus a large dog is more active than a small breed and requires more dog food to satisfy its need (Lauten, 2006). For the overall health and nutrition, large breeds need certain foods which are made for big dogs because such breeds weigh between 100 to 200 pound range.
More so owning a large breed dog calls for common sense and adaptability to provide sufficient healthcare, exercise, time, space and food for a healthier dog. The other consideration for owning a large breed, is contemplating the health problems that tag large dog breeds relative to their size. Large dogs have smaller digestive tracts compared to small dogs, therefore more often they may develop digestive problems like episodic diarrhea, lower digestive rates and frequent defecation. Therefore, for small apartment owners with thought of owing a big dog, have to consider such factors as providing defecation grounds and proper disposal. Big dogs have the tendency to eat large amounts of food at one time which can cause related health problems at a later time, and also require special feedings or diet to mitigate bloat, a syndrome linked to large dogs. Overall, families or individuals with small apartments need to consider the requirements that tag along keeping large dog breeds. It is essential for dogs whether small or big to be catered for because they are social animals needing the company of human beings so as to develop their full potential. Health factors are also important as dogs need annual checkup in order to prevent ill health and prevent diseases. The health benefits brought by owning a dog are numerous such as improving one’s mood, pets control blood pressure efficiently than drugs, encourages outdoor exercise, help with social support, reduce loneliness and stress.
Conclusion
Pets comprise an important part in human beings and especially canines which have formed a special bond from time memorial. Owning a dog presents happiness to many families, couples and especially children who become excited. However, owning a dog requires important aspects to be considered which include food, health, exercise and space requirements which are basic for any dog. Large breed dogs moreover require more space and food because of their high active energy. Therefore families or individuals with smaller apartments need to consider crucial factors that are essential for the well being of the canine.
Reference:
Fogle, Bruce, (2000). The new Encyclopedia of the Dog. Doring Kindersley.
Lauten, S D. (2006). Nutritional risks to large-breed dogs: from weaning to the geriatric years. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract.
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