Having a big dog really is something else. Sure, little puppies can provide some companionship, but they really don’t hold a candle to something larger like a Rottweiler. Big dogs can be really friendly, and in fact they often love to cuddle. There’s also the added benefit that large dog breeds make for some pretty good guard dogs. With that being said, large dogs are not always the easiest to care for – they can be harder to control, harder to feed, and harder to train too.
However, this is not to say that there are not some life hacks that can make having a large dog much easier on the owner. For instance, instead of feeding them dog food pellets on a daily basis, which are super expensive and none too healthy, you might want to look into feeding your dog some fresh fruits and veggies, and even fresh meat too. On a side note, it is important to know what fruits dogs can eat before you do this. At any rate, let’s talk about 4 life hacks for the large dog owner right now.
Refurbish an Old Mattress
One life hack for large dog owners is to refurbish an old mattress for your large breed of dog. Big dogs love sleeping and lying down on something soft. After all, what dog doesn’t like to have a soft bed to sleep on? It’s really no different than with human beings. The issue with dog beds for large dogs is that they are usually super expensive. Sure, beds for small dogs don’t cost that much, but as you get up there in size, the price increases as well.
Furthermore, you then have to deal with the bed getting smelly, being ripped by claws, and chewed on. They really never last all that long, and then you have to buy a new one. Instead of spending a couple hundred bucks on a new dog bed for your big dog, why not just use an old mattress? You want it to be relatively clean, and you need to have a decent amount of space where you plan on putting it, but it is a cheap alternative to this issue.
A thick mattress will provide good support, comfort, and warmth for a big dog, all without the massive cost of a new dog bed.
Meat, Veggies, and Fruits
For one, it is no secret that large dog breeds do not live as long as smaller ones. A Border Terrier, or something equally as small, can easily live 14 or even 16 years, whereas a large dog, such as a St. Bernard, might only live to around 10 years old. It’s simply the fact that they are larger which decreases the life span. However, the way in which you feed your large dog can make a difference.
Feeding them the right vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients can go a long way in helping them live longer. Yet, the dog food you buy in bags is really not all that great. Sure, it will fill their stomachs and keep them alive, but it is not the healthiest option around. There’s also the fact that dog food of a decent quality is actually very pricey, especially when you have an animal that eats a lot. Start feeding your dog some fresh fruit, veggies, and meat. You’ll have a healthier dog and probably end up saving some money too.
Get a Harness or Halti
One thing which is recommended if you own a large dog is to get a harness or a Halti. Walking large dogs can be a bit tricky, especially if they are not the best-trained animals. Unless you are a muscle-bound person, keeping your large dog under control during a walk can be a challenge.
To keep a large dog from dragging you across the pavement, a harness or Halti will do wonders. It won’t hurt them, and they won’t cause discomfort either, but it will allow you to be the one in control of the walk.
Keep a Towel Handy
The fact of the matter is that big dogs make big messes. When they drink water, their jaws are dripping with it, and they get it all over the floor. When you come back from a walk and it was wet outside, those furry paws will drag that mess through your house. You really don’t know how handy a good towel can be until you experience this first hand.
Conclusion
When all is said and done, these 4 life hacks for large dog owners can help make your life much easier.