Are Big Dogs More Expensive to Keep? Let’s Compare


First of all, please allow me to applaud you for counting the cost of pet ownership! This is something a responsible pet owner does to ensure their pet will receive everything it will need throughout its life. In this article, you’ll discover how big dogs compare to small when it comes to the question “Are big dogs more expensive to keep?”

Yes, big dogs are generally more expensive to keep. Although it may surprise you in which areas, so let’s compare, big dog expenses vs small dog expenses.

Today we’ll be looking at the “regular” costs a dog incurs, no matter their size. In each category, one $ point will be awarded to the dog (big or small) for being the more expensive one in the category. When we’re done, we’ll count up the $ points and “hand out the “Mo$t Expen$ive to Keep Ribbon” to the more expensive dog to keep. Today we’ll learn whether a big dog is more expensive to keep in each of the following 7 categories:

  1. The Initial Purchase or Rescue Shelter Fee
  2. Puppy (or adult dog) Paraphernalia
  3. Dog Food
  4. Healthcare
  5. Training
  6. Toys (because all dogs need to play)
  7. Housing

A couple of things really surprised me in my research, and today I’m sharing it all with you! Shall we begin “digging up” the facts?

Is a Big Dog more Expensive to Buy (or Rescue)?

Let’s jump right into the category where bigger does not necessarily mean more expensive. Obviously there are ads in the paper every week for free puppies, both big and small.

If you opt to save a dog from becoming one of the 670,000 unwanted dogs that are euthanized annually in the United States, you will generally find a standard fee for adoption, whether the dog is big or small.

Rescue Organizations like Hope for Paws have costs vary greatly from state to state. But they charge per the organization’s standards, and not so much on the dog’s breed or size.

Breeders and pet shops charge by breed and not size. In many instances, a tiny breed like the Brishon Frise can cost more than a Rottweiler!

Whether you opt for a big dog or a small dog, you can expect to pay anywhere in the range of free to $2500. For this reason, no point is scored in this category.

Are Big Dog Supplies More Expensive?

Any dog will need more things than dog food. At my house, these things are called “puppy paraphernalia”. This paraphernalia includes (but is not limited to) the following things:

  • Food & Water Bowls: This is an area where the cost is u to you, and a set of bowls for a big dog needn’t be one iota more expensive than a set for a smaller dog. As a matter of fact, you likely have two unused bowls in your cabinet right now that would be perfect… and free! In case you don’t, though, I’ll include some helpful links at the bottom of this article, and you can decide what you’d like to spend.
  • Leash: Since you landed on this site, I already know you take pet-ownership seriously. I hope you’ll take safety seriously, too. A leash not only protects humans and other animals from your dog, but it also protects your dog from them, too! Additionally, a leash will keep your dog by your side on outings and prevent him from lunging into traffic. You will pay more for a dog leash designed to keep big dogs safe than you will for a smaller dog leash. Big dogs pull MUCH harder than small, and the strength of the leash you purchase should reflect that.
  • Collar or Harness: Keeping with the safety-first theme, you will need a collar and/or harness for your dog whether it’s big or small. As a matter of fact, you will need more than one across the span of the dog’s life. For increased size and strength, a collar or harness designed to be safe for a big dog is going to cost more.
  • Muzzle: I know what you’re thinking! You likely aren’t considering a “mean” dog. But I have to tell you. We don’t muzzle because a dog is mean, we muzzle because he’s a dog! There are simply certain times when a muzzle should be utilized for any dog, and believe me, I have seen a Chihuahua need one as often as a Rottweiler. Again in this category, the bigger and stronger muzzle will cost more.
  • Bedding: I have a dog who wouldn’t sleep in a store-bough bed designed for dogs if the bed hand-fed him snacks all day, LOL! Rather, he sleeps on an old pillow, not costing a thing. Should you opt for an attractive dog-bed like I wish my dog would use, you will pay more for a bigger one than a smaller one.
  • Dog House (if Rover will be residing outside): By now I know you’ve got the rhythm of how this is going. And you’re right! A bigger dog house will likely cost you more than a smaller, depending on the house’s features. If your dog will be sleeping in a dog-house, please do consider the elements outside, and purchase the house accordingly. Insulation will help in heat or cold, some houses have flaps over the door, and some have heated floors! Keep your dog safe from the weather with a dog-house.
  • Grooming Supplies: The basic grooming kit is small. Really you need only 5 things. These are:

(1) A Two-Sided Dog Brush (2) Shampoo (3) Toenail Clippers (4) A Canine Toothbrush/Paste  (5) Curved Scissors

A big dog will use more products over time, and you may want a sturdy pair of toenail clippers because big dog’s nails are tougher than a small dog’s.

All in all, the $ point in the supplies category for more expensive goes to a big dog.

How Much More do Big Dogs Eat Than Small Dogs?

are big dogs more expensive

Before we go any further, I want to remind you that this is one area in which you do not want to cut costs! No matter the size of the dog you own, all dogs need a nutritionally-sound diet to be healthy and “whole”.  When it comes to good health, a “bargain” is rarely just that.

If you’d like to learn more about the different nutrition in different dog foods and what to look for on those labels, I’ve got you covered! Check out Is Pedigree Good Dog Food? right here in the Big Dog Den! I did the research for a Rottweiler named Maximus, but the dog-food information certainly applies to any dog breed.

Another thing it’s important to know is that each dog is unique in its appetite. The amounts of dog-food listed below are a general guideline. The specific amount your dog should be eating is a subject you should discuss with your dog’s veterinarian at every check-up, as it will change throughout the years.

On Average, a mature small dog will eat 8oz-1 pound of food in a day. That’s 3 1/2-7 pounds a week, or 15-30 pounds of food per month.

On Average, a mature big dog will munch down 2-3 pounds every day, adding up to 60-90 pounds per month.

I know I don’t even have to say it…. the point goes to the big dog here!

Are Big Dogs More Expensive to Take to the Veterinarian?

On average across the United States, a veterinarian’s office visits cost the same for all animals. Costs here vary according to geographical location and a veterinarian’s area of specialty. A generally healthy dog should be seen by a veterinarian 3-4 times in its first year of life and annually throughout its adulthood.

In about the seventh year of your dog’s life, he should be seen by a veterinarian twice a year. This is because health problems that come with age begin to surface, and your dog’s dietary or supplemental needs may change.

In addition to health and wellness check-ups, your dog should also have an annual dental exam. All dogs are without dental care will be prone to tooth and gum issues as they age.

I would be remiss not to mention that emergency healthcare will likely be necessary at some point in your dog’s life, as well. Make sure you have an emergency telephone number stored on your phone in the event you should ever need it. Truly, I hope you don’t!

Although medications for dogs are sold according to a dog’s weight, making a larger dog require slightly more product, no point is awarded in this category. It is too difficult to figure the medical costs any sized dog could incur when special needs arise, or to determine cost variance should a pet owner opt to frequent a pricey clinic.

Is it More Expensive to Buy a Big Dog Toys?

Having a toy or two isn’t an addition to a dog’s needs, but a basic need in itself. Dog toys serve 4 Purposes:

  1. Dog toys satisfy a dog’s need to chew. This is both a physical need, as when a pup is teething and an inherent instinct connected to eating for survival. A toy suitable for your dog’s specific needs may just save a slipper or two at your house!
  2. A dog toy provides a venue for exercise. Most dogs will enjoy a game of “Fetch”  or “Tug of War”. In playing, the dog will be building stronger muscles, healthier joints, and staving off obesity, a problem as prevalent in the canine kingdom as in the human kingdom.
  3. Dog toys prevent boredom. Most dogs are more intelligent than we give them credit for! Did you know dogs have the capacity to learn about 150 words? Some breeds can learn up to 250 words! With this intelligence comes the ability to experience boredom. Your dog will amaze you with its ability to entertain itself! An interactive “puzzle toy” or any toy that your dog loves will occupy him (or her) for hours.
  4. A dog toy can help strengthen the bond between you and your dog.  Every interaction you have with your dog is an opportunity to strengthen the bond that will grow through a lifetime. I would recommend having a “special” toy that comes out only for the two of you to enjoy together. For instance, when “Duckworth” my dog’s Plush Toy, comes out, it’s chill together on the sofa time at my house! My dog has been able to connect the good atmosphere and interaction with me to his toy!

Sometimes when I’m doing dinner dishes, he’ll stand in the family room doorway with the plush toy, urging me to hurry with his eyes!

When it comes to dog toys, size and durability matter! A Rottweiler would chew up a toy designed for a Toy Poodle in a matter of minutes. More often than not, a big dog will be considered an aggressive chewer and will need toys specifically designed for his might bite-force.

You can be sure that “bigger and more durable” means more money. It isn’t always a lot of extra money, but we’re determining simply if a big dog is more expensive to keep or not. In the category of safe toys, big dogs get yet another point.

*At the end of this article, you’ll find convenient links that will take you directly to some of the toys mentioned in this article.

Want to compare more information? If you’re wondering how big dogs compare to small dogs in intelligence, you won’t want to miss “Are Big Dogs More Intelligent?” right here in the Big Dog Den!

Can Landlords Charge More for Big Dogs?

When renting a home, it is crucial for you to discover the specific pet policies of the homeowner or realtor. It is the “norm” these days to pay a pet deposit on top of a security deposit. A pet deposit is also non-refundable. You’ll likely pay extra by the month, as well. It isn’t just renters who will pay more to own a dog, either! Even home insurance premiums can go up for homeowners that own certain animals!

Those certain animals, I’m afraid, are the “bully breeds”. If you’ve ever been friends with a wonderful dog that falls into the “bully” category, though, you already know the label is undeserved. Humans should wear it, and not the dog. But I digress.

In the housing category, bigger generally means more money, giving big dogs another $ point.

So, Which are More Expensive, Big Dogs or Small? 

We just went over the generalized costs in seven different categories to see how big dogs compare to small. Big dogs added up to be more expensive in 4 of the categories, earning them the

“Mo$t Expen$ive to Keep Ribbon”!

Ya know what, though? when you find the dog that’s perfect for YOU (and you for Him/HER) there’s not a cost that isn’t worth every penny! A loyal companion who cheers you on motivates you and lives to please you can certainly only be called “Man’s (or woman’s) best friend”!

Were there any costs or answers here that surprised you today? Some surprised me! I want you to know that I’m glad you stopped by, I appreciate and value your time. Before we say goodbye, I have the answer to one more question you may have about big dogs. You won’t want to miss “Are Big Dogs Really More Aggressive?” right here in the Big Dog Den! You’ll find the informative article right on the other end of this linkStop in again soon!

As promised, here are the convenient links to some of the items mentioned in today’s post. Each link will take you directly to the product featured on Amazon. Happy shopping!

Food and Water Bowls

As mentioned in today’s article, you can stick to a tight budget in this area or buy your four-legged companion the best! It’s your call! Just below you’ll find the links for every price range, simply decide what suits your dog (and your budget) best!  CLICK HERE to find the best bowls from Amazon.

DID YOU KNOW? There are certain health conditions that may make eating and drinking out of elevated bowls more comfortable for your dog. Mobility issues and esophagus disorders are two of those conditions. Generally, though, it is not necessary.

Safety Equipment

Don’t cut corners when it comes to the safety of your dog (or those around him). You’ll want safety equipment that is durable and easy to use. Here are a few great choices!

CLICK HERE to find large breed collars and leashes from Amazon

Toys Dogs Love:

Remember to select toys for your dog that are neither too large nor too small. Make the toy can endure your dog’s chewing strength, and that no pieces of the toy can be chewed off. I do not generally recommend Rawhide Bones for that very reason. The pieces of Rawhide can break off in sharp shards, and pose a risk for injury or choking. Here are some toys HERE for large breed aggressive chewers from Amazon

Grooming:

Remember that when it comes to shampoo for your dog, you’ll want an all-natural and conditioning brand.  And don’t forget to brush your dog’s teeth! It is every bit as important for dogs as it is for humans!  CLICK here for grooming supplies for your big dog.

 

*This article has been reviewed in accordance with our editorial policy.

 

 

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