Large dogs vs Small Dogs

If you're a dog person, then you know that there's no such thing as a bad dog. They're all good boys and girls waiting for the right dose of love to unlock their full potential. At the same time, if you are thinking about adding a bundle of fluff to your household, you may want to consider some important differences between dog sizes. 

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There are a few important differences between big dogs and little dogs. Figuring out which one is best suited for your lifestyle and needs can help you make sure that you add a family member that's going to make everyone happy. 

Little Dogs Live Longer

Bigger dogs may dominate the list of most popular breeds, but people who choose smaller pups are likely to get more years with their furry companions. This fact can seem counterintuitive. After all, big animals tend to live longer than small ones. A mouse may only live a few years while a horse may live for decades. 

When it comes to longevity within a species, the smaller dogs seem to last longer. Small dogs have an average life expectancy of 12 to 14 years while bigger dogs only get 8 to 10 years on average. Very large dogs (think great Danes and mastiffs) can have even shorter life expectancy with an average of five to eight years. 

The reason for these shorter lives is complex and involves the way that the initial growth spurt in bigger breeds boosts the aging process, but the upshot is the size of the dog you choose is going to have a big impact on how long you can expect it to be in your life. 

Size Changes Shopping Trips

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Obviously, big dogs are going to eat more than little dogs, but that's not the only shopping difference between the two sizes. Remember that big dogs need toys best suited for their size, or they could end up with a choking hazard. While a little dog with a toy that's too big get understandably frustrated, a big dog with a toy that's too small might get hurt. 

If you're adding a dog into a household that already has other dogs around, you'll want to consider whether you're going to buy new toys to keep them safe. 

Little Dogs Tire Quickly

If you're hoping to add your canine companion to your active lifestyle, you might want to consider a bigger breed. Big dogs tend to dominate lists of the best breeds for active people. Whether they are sticking by your side on the running trail, chasing after Frisbees in the park, or diving in after you in the lake, there are many big breeds that can keep up with a high level of activity. 

Of course, the flip side is true, too. If you're a couch potato who is going to find daily runs and lots of outside play difficult to fit into your life, you might be happier with a little dog who is going to be content cuddling up next to you. 

There's no right or wrong dog breed, and every option comes with its own pros and cons. At the end of the day, a good match usually comes down to falling in love with the charm and personality of an individual dog, but knowing whether a big or little dog will best fit into your life can help you narrow down your search early on.