Big dog vs. small dog breeds: what’s right for you?

Updated 14/11/2024

Thinking about welcoming a new dog or going pet sitting, but tangled up in the big dog vs. small dog debate? Well a dog’s size can affect their lifespan, energy levels and health needs. 

So, stick with us where we explore the key differences between large dogs vs. small dogs below, along with differences between breeds such as grooming, temperament and training needs that have nothing to do with size at all.

Big dog vs. small dog breeds: key differences

• Temperament. Temperament varies when it comes to little dogs vs. big dogs - with many challenging the stereotypes. In fact, temperament varies greatly from individual to individual, both within breed and between breeds. With that said though, many consider larger dogs to be calmer in nature, more receptive to socialization, less anxious, and more tolerant of young children and strangers.
• Training. The size of the dog doesn’t necessarily affect their ability to be trained. Rather, it’s more helpful for pet owners to look at the breed history, the dog’s personal history, and to approach training with positive reinforcement and consistency. 
• Lifespan. Generally speaking, bigger dogs tend to have a shorter lifespan than smaller dogs, with breeds such as Yorkies and Shih Tzus living up to 16 years, and large dog breeds such as Great Danes and Saint Bernards living up to 10 years.
• Exercise. All prospective pet parents should be prepared to walk their dog - all dogs, no matter their size, require daily exercise, play and mental stimulation. With that said, some breeds are less energetic than others, with Pugs, for example, requiring less exercise than a high-energy dog breed, like a Border Collie.
• Health. All dogs are susceptible to health issues - both big dogs and small dogs are at risk of issues such as dental problems. Bigger dogs however, are more prone to health problems such as arthritis, hip and elbow dysplasia, and bloat.
• Shedding. Some report that larger breeds tend to shed more, but the amount a dog sheds is also determined by the coat type - for example, a dog such as the Standard Poodle - which according to the AKC (American Kennel Club) should be more than 15 inches tall at the shoulder, shed in incredibly small amounts, in comparison to a smaller dog, like the Jack Russell Terrier.
• Injury. If you’ve got a busy household filled with children and other family members, it’s typical for pet parents to opt for a smaller dog. While this can help the pooch to fit nicely into the home, they’re sometimes more prone to injury due to their small stature.
• Home environment. Big dogs take up more space, so some pet owners who have a small living space and outdoor area opt for a smaller dog for lifestyle compatibility.

Health issues associated with big dogs vs. small dogs

When it comes to large dogs’ vs. small dogs’ health, there are a few health issues to be aware of. And just one caveat before we compare the two - new pet parents should make their decision on their new pooch based on not only the dog’s size, but also the dog’s breed, and the health issues associated with them.

Big dogs are at a higher risk of…

• Arthritis. Partly due to their larger size, bigger dog breeds are more at risk of arthritis than smaller dogs - a condition that wears away at cartilage, and causes pain and lameness.
• Hip and elbow dysplasia. Along with their genetics, larger breeds are more likely to suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia due to their growth rate, hormones and sheer muscle mass.
• Bloat. Larger dogs are more at risk of bloat, a condition which is life-threatening and involves the twisting of the stomach, which can cause breathing issues and death. Larger dogs are more at risk of this than smaller dogs due to their stomach’s large size, sometimes faster eating habits and higher food intake.
• Dilated cardiomyopathy. This occurs more often in larger than smaller dogs, and involves the enlargement and weakening of the heart.
• Cancer. A study referred to by the AKC - where evolutionary biologist, Cornelia Kraus at the University of Göttingen, carried out a major study on over 56,000 dogs, found that large breeds died of cancer more often than smaller dogs.

Small dogs are at a higher risk of…

• Tracheal collapse. More common in small and toy dog breeds such as Chihuahuas and Pomeranians, this occurs when the airway collapses during inhalation.
• Dental disease. Smaller dogs such as Yorkshire Terriers and flat-faced breeds such as Boxers and French Bulldogs are more prone to dental diseases.
• Brachycephalic airway syndrome. Common in dog breeds with small muzzles and flat faces - such as the French Bulldog or Boston Terrier, the condition causes breathing issues due to the lack of nostril room.

It’s worth noting that all dogs are at risk of health issues - the main thing to be aware of is that you’re adopting your new pup from somewhere ethical. The best way to go is generally adoption from a shelter - where you’re giving a pup a new, loving home. If you choose to go for a breeder, ensure they’re following ethical breeding practices.

Large dogs vs. small dogs: pros and cons

Why big dogs are the best

The big dog vs. small dog debate goes on - below find a few reasons why lovers of big dogs have decided that big dogs are the best, period.

• Calm temperament. Big dogs can be more predictable in nature, more stable, gentle, and better with strangers and children than small dogs.
• Protection. Some people feel protected with a large dog by their side, even if the dog happens to be gentle and friendly.
• Easy to train. Some larger dog breeds - especially working breeds - are more obedient, more intelligent, less stubborn and easier to train than smaller dogs.
• They’re active. Many larger and medium-sized dog breeds such as German Shepherds and Hungarian Vizslas are ex-working dogs, so they love accompanying their humans on activities such as hikes, jogs and bike rides.

Big dog cons

• Cost. All large dog breeds will be more expensive for pet parents, requiring more food, larger toys, larger bedding, larger crates, and potentially more frequent trips to the veterinarian.
• Space. Naturally, bigger dog breeds take up much more space in the home, so dog owners of larger breeds have to take caution when placing valuable ornaments.
• Travel. Large dog breeds are more of a challenge to take road tripping, so we’d recommend welcoming a verified pet sitter to take care of them from the comfort of home.
• Strength. If a larger dog isn’t trained properly, their strength will make them difficult - and sometimes dangerous to walk and handle.

Why small dogs are the best

• Cheaper to look after. Naturally, smaller dogs require less food, treats and a smaller bed and crate, so dog owners with smaller dogs will generally spend less on their pet than owners of larger dogs.
• Great lap dogs. If you simply want a dog to cuddle, some smaller breeds such as the Pomeranrian, Yorkshire Terrier and King Charles Spaniel make great lap dogs.
• Easier for city living. Due to their smaller size, smaller dogs can be more practical if walks occur in the city or you’ll need to take them on public transport.
• Longer lifespan. Generally, smaller dog breeds live longer than large dog breeds, with Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers and Dachshunds often living the longest. The large dog vs. small dog lifespan difference is real, so it’s worth considering if you’re a new pet parent.

Small dog cons

• Barking. Some smaller dog breeds tend to be more prone to barking than larger dogs. According to the AKC, a study carried out by the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna found that smaller dogs were more excitable, and more likely to bark and growl at strangers and other dogs.
• Anxious. The same study by the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna also found that the smaller dogs were more likely to be spooked by loud noises, such as weather noises like thunder, or when in the company of strangers. As you might know, anxiety in dogs can lead to a variety of behavioral problems, but both large and small dogs can experience canine anxiety.
• Fragility. A busy household isn’t necessarily the right place for a tiny dog - they easily get under their humans’ feet, and are more prone to injury than larger dogs.

Low maintenance large dogs

If you’re considering welcoming a large dog into your life, you might be looking for easy big dogs to take care of. Below, we’ll list a few low maintenance large dog breeds so that you can explore your options. 

Before we explore the large dogs considered to be easier to care for, it’s worth noting that they’re considered ‘easier’ breeds for a variety of reasons. For example, some might require less grooming, some may be easier to train, and some may be good with children, or not experience quite so many health issues.

The takeaway message here is that you should always do your research before choosing the right dog breed for you, your home and family - no matter the dog’s size.

• Basset Hounds. Despite their working dog history, Basset Hounds are considered low-energy dogs and need less exercise than some other dog breeds.
• Saint Bernards. These large dogs are known for their placid nature, so will happily mooch about with you at a slow pace and cuddle up on the sofa.
• Great Danes. Playful but with fairly low energy levels, Great Danes are known for being great family dogs.

Low maintenance small dogs

Find a few low maintenance small dog breeds below, and why many pet parents consider them easier to look after than other breeds with higher needs.

• Dachshunds. These pups shed minimally and only require brushing around once per week.
• French Bulldogs. Like Dachshunds, French Bulldogs require minimal grooming.
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. These dogs are known for their laid-back attitude and loving nature, and are popular emotional support animals.
• Toy Poodles. Poodles are known for their lack of hair shedding, and the breed is considered one of the most intelligent by the American Kennel Club, so they’re pretty easy to train.

Tips for introducing big and small dogs

Can’t decide between the two, or bringing together two new furry friends of different sizes for some reason? Well having a household of small dogs with big dogs too can work, but you’ll need to put safety first at all times, especially when it comes to those initial introductions. So, here are a few tips for helping the big and small dogs in your life get on in canine harmony.

• The first few meetings should be somewhere neutral, especially if one dog is new to the household and one is well-established.
• At first, keep the dogs on a loose leash.
• Keep the small dog on your lap at first.
• Be aware of both dogs’ body language and end the introduction if either seem to be stressed.
• Positively reinforce the interaction with treats and praise, especially rewarding calm, friendly behavior.
• Keep initial introductions short and slowly build up over time.
• Allow the dogs to have a sniff - this is the canine way of getting to know one another.

Tips for pet parenting big dogs and small dogs

• TLC. No matter their size, both big and small dogs need and deserve TLC every day of the week.
• Training. Whether your chosen dog breed is considered to be easier to train or not, all dogs need consistent training, and will thrive off a positive reinforcement-based approach.
• Socialization. All dogs need to be socialized from a young age to become well-rounded adults - expose them to people of different ages, cities and rural areas.
• Regular vet check ups. All dogs - big and small - need to be checked regularly by their vet, and you should always contact your vet should you suspect your pup has a health issue.
• Grooming. All dogs - in some capacity - need some form of grooming, so get clued-up on your dog breed’s needs.
• Pet insurance. It’s never nice to think about the worst case scenario, but having the right pet insurance covers you, should the worst happen.
• Be prepared for vacation time. It’s vital you give your pup the right care while you’re around, but when it’s time for you to go on vacation, you’ll need to organize the right pet care for your pup. Vets agree pets are happier at home, so it could be worth connecting with a verified pet sitter - click below to find out more about how that works.

Considerations for pet sitters

Thinking about whether a big dog or small dog is right for you not only applies if you’re thinking about welcoming a dog of your own into your life. It’s also so important to consider if you’re thinking about pet sitting.

If traveling the world, caring for the pets in it and getting a place to stay in return sounds good to you, you’ll need to consider whether finding dog sits with large or small dogs is right for you. 

For example, do you have the ability to handle a large dog, should they pull on the lead? Do you prefer an adventurous hound who you can take hiking in the mountains, or a low-energy large pup, to (mainly) curl up on the sofa with? 

Whatever your preference, always read up on the dog’s needs before agreeing to a house sit, and ask pet parents all the questions.

Meet our veterinary expert, Lizzie

This article has been checked by veterinarian Lizzie Youens BSc (Hons) BVSc MRCVS. Lizzie graduated from the University of Bristol in 2011, and has been working in first opinion companion animal practice. She has worked in a variety of clinics across the UK, from large hospitals to small branch practices. She enjoys doing a mixture of medicine, surgery and emergency work. Lizzie currently works in a small rural practice where she enjoys working in a close-knit community. 

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