8 Costs That Increase the Larger Your Dog Is

If you have a spacious home with plenty of outside space, you might dream of owning a large or giant breed of dog. Many of the biggest breeds, such as the Great Dane or the Bernese Mountain dog, are known for their kind, gentle nature and loving companionship.

However, along with their big hearts come big needs. These breeds are not only larger in size but require much more care, space, and financial investment throughout their lives. While all dog ownership carries costs, many expenses scale up significantly with size. Below, we explore eight of the most common areas where costs increase as your dog gets bigger, highlighting what owners need to consider before welcoming a large breed to their home.

1. Food

Feeding a large dog is one of the most obvious and continuous expenses. Bigger dogs need significantly more calories, so monthly food bills can be substantially higher than for smaller breeds. Depending on the diet quality and brand, feeding a giant breed like a Great Dane can easily cost around £100 or more per month. Choosing a nutritious diet suitable for their size and health helps support their wellbeing but comes with a bigger price tag.

2. Surgical Procedures and Veterinary Care

The costs of veterinary care, especially surgical procedures, tend to rise with size. Operations such as neutering and spaying require more time and greater resources for large dogs, making these surgeries more expensive. Should your dog need any other surgeries due to injury or illness, the larger doses of anaesthetic and medication, plus the increased aftercare, all add to the cost.

3. Flea and Worming Treatments

Preventative treatments like flea and worm medications are dosed by weight. This means that large and giant breeds need larger quantities of these essential products. Monthly or quarterly doses can be pricier simply because they require more medication to protect a bigger body from parasites effectively.

4. Collars, Leads, and Coats

Accessories must be built to withstand the strength and size of large dogs. Collars and leads need to be longer and sturdier, and manufacturers understandably charge more for these durable items. Likewise, coats designed for larger dogs use more material and often cost more than those for small breeds. Ensuring your large dog has properly fitting equipment is crucial for safety and comfort.

5. Bedding

Good quality bedding offers comfort and support, particularly for large dogs who may be prone to joint issues. However, dog beds suitable for giant breeds can be as long or even larger than a human mattress and are generally priced accordingly. Expect to invest more for beds that provide the durability and softness your big dog deserves.

6. Pet Insurance

Insuring a large dog typically costs more than a smaller dog because the potential vet bills for this group tend to be higher and their health risks can be breed-related and size-related. Many insurers calculate premiums based on the breed’s predisposition to conditions and the higher likelihood of more costly claims associated with larger dogs.

7. Medications

Whether for ongoing health conditions or short-term illness, medication doses are calculated by weight. This often means larger dogs require higher doses or more frequent medication, cumulatively increasing the cost over time. While individually some medications might only cost a few pence more, chronic vet care for large dogs can add up significantly.

8. Boarding and Training Costs

Boarding fees at kennels and training courses often rise with the size of the dog, reflecting the extra space, attention, and resources required. For very large breeds, training is particularly important to facilitate safe handling and socialisation, potentially increasing the need for professional support.

Owning a large dog brings incredible joy but also requires careful consideration of the financial commitment involved, alongside ensuring appropriate space and time. Responsible ownership means planning ahead to meet your dog's needs, no matter their size or breed.

For those seeking to find a puppy or look for Bernese Mountain dog puppies and other breeds, it’s wise to choose reputable breeders and consider the ongoing care costs detailed here to ensure a happy life for your new family member.