Big Dogs, Big Hearts: Debunking the Myths About XL Pups

Big dogs are awesome. photo: Adobe Stock

Though many dog breeds have some sort of stigma attached to them, few get a bad rap more than big dogs. Large dog breeds are often unfairly mislabeled as dangerous, destructive, and uncontrollable. But with proper training, this couldn’t be further from the truth.

One of the arguments I often hear against large breed dogs is that they are statistically more likely to bite people. While it’s accurate to say that large breeds account for the majority of reported dog bites, what isn’t accounted for is that small breed bites are not reported as frequently. 

Another argument is that large dogs require more exercise and can be more difficult to  control - and it’s easy to think that given their size.  But there are plenty of big dogs who don’t need a lot of exercise (some of the biggest couch potatoes in the world are XL breeds). And the fact is that, without training, any dog can be unruly and hard to handle, which is why training is so important.  Fortunately, big dogs tend to lead the pack in intelligence which makes them easy to train. 

People often think a small dog is a suitable companion for the elderly, but large and giant breed dogs may be a better choice for older folks and those with more sedentary lifestyles. As a professional trainer, I have trained many Goldens, Labs, Danes, and German Shepherds to be service dogs for the elderly.  These dogs are able to provide better services to their handlers, including a few services that just aren’t possible for smaller breeds. And unlike petite breeds, large dogs don’t need to be let out as frequently and are far less apt to present a tripping hazard.

Larger dogs also tend to perform much better as service animals and are better equipped to provide aid in an emergency. And their size and temperament often make them ideal choices for therapy animals or emotional support dogs. 

For example, the ESA Doctors website lists Golden Retrievers as the most affectionate breed for Psychiatric Assistance Dogs and Emotional Support Animals. In fact, of the 12 best dog breeds for therapy listed by the site, 7 are large breed dogs that generally weigh at least 60 pounds. Here’s what the site says about Goldens:  “Golden Retrievers can function as an emotional support animal for many disabilities. Because they are gentle and attentive, they work well with children. But their size and discipline also make them suitable ESAs for adults.” 

“Golden Retrievers can grow to about 55-95 pounds. Although they are generally peaceful and docile dogs, their size provides people who have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) with a feeling of security and safety. Having an almost human-sized animal next to them at night can provide PTSD patients with the peace of mind needed for a good night’s sleep.”

Great Danes are another often overlooked gem of the big dog world. Originally bred for boar hunting, these gentle giants actually make some of the most amazing service animals, as these testimonials make clear. 

“Great Danes...can provide mobility support and service work easily on account of their size. Great Danes also have the excellent demeanor to act as a psychiatric service dog for veterans or individuals with mental impairments… Great Dane[s] rank very high in adaptive training, which is huge for a service dog. They must be able to adapt to any situation and provide help and assistance. They are great problem solvers, even as puppies, and are one of the best breeds at adaptive behavior.” certapet.com

“One of the best aspects of a Great Dane as a service dog is their height. This extra height is perfect for someone who may have issues with their balance, as well as someone who may have overall limited mobility.

“They can reach higher heights and have more strength to pull wheelchairs or push open doors for the owner. The massive size of the animal can also draw attention away from the owner, which is sometimes a huge asset.” greatdanecare.com

So don’t let the big dog/bad rap fool you. Some of the best dogs in the world come in large packages - with some of the biggest hearts to match.