Questions to Ask

Large or Small Dog?

This is usually one of the easier decisions you will need to make. Most people have a pretty good idea of how large a dog they want, but a few key points might be helpful.

Small dogs can be cuddly companions that nestle in your lap, or they can be diligent watchdogs, all depending on the breed you choose. Small dogs are excellent for urban or apartment dwellers because they can be trained to go on newspapers or in a litter box, and generally require less exercise because their short legs can get a workout by running inside a home or apartment. Small dogs obviously eat less than larger dogs, so your dog food bills will be smaller, and their stools will be reduced, which makes cleanup easier. If you are buying a dog for a child, remember that small dogs generally tend to live longer than larger dogs. This can be especially important if you want a pet that will survive throughout your son or daughter's childhood years. However, small dogs can be less tolerant of rough handling by children, and they have a higher pitched and more frequent bark, which may require greater tolerance on the part of you and your neighbors.

Large dogs require more space, both inside and outside your home. Because they are unable to get adequate exercise simply by moving around your home (unless you happen to live in a palace), large dogs will need to be exercised outdoors. Preferably this exercise will occur with you at the other end of the leash. If you are an active, athletic person, a large dog can certainly be a welcome addition to your exercise routine. Many people prefer large dogs because of their physical beauty, and because they can provide a measure of personal security. Remember that large dogs can be intimidating to visitors, which can be good or bad, depending on who the visitor is. Also, large dogs are usually more expensive to care for since they eat more and may need to be obedience trained.

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