Adopting a Large Breed Dog

Sure, you may think you're a dog lover. You love puppies and never kick them, you adore your neighbor's puppy, and you had a toy poodle growing up. But have you ever had a dog that ways as much as a small child? How about as much as you? Are you ready for a big dog? Here's how to tell.

1. Do you have a big lap? No matter the size: a 75-pound Old English or a 200-pound Mastiff, big dogs don't know they're big. They will sit in your lap and those of your guests, try to curl up in your favorite chair and plop on your couch. If you're not cool with this behavior, you better let em' know when they're still small. If you love this behavior, you're ready for a big dog.

2. Do you have a big wallet? Owning a big dog costs more. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you won't fully realize it until you see the PetSmart receipts for the food, and the grooming bill, and the vet bill . . . If you are independently wealthy, you're ready for a big dog.

3. Are you ready to go solo? They don't fit in purses, aren't allowed on planes (except for in the cargo hold) and are banned from most hotels. Big dogs are hard, near impossible, to travel with. And most like to ride in the car-in the front. If you have a big truck and enjoy camping, you're ready for a big dog.

4. Do you have a good vacuum cleaner? If you think a Lhasa Apso sheds a lot, wait until you meet a Briard. More dog almost always means more hair. If you have a Dyson Pet Vac, you're ready for a big dog.

5. Do you have a thick skin? No matter how cute and docile your dog is, some children, dogs and even adults are going to be afraid of him. Especially those that own small dogs. Are you prepared to cross the street to avoid a screaming child or hyperventilating woman with a Bichon in her purse? Then you're ready for a big dog.

6. Do you like mud? Well, Mother Nature was kind enough to give big dogs big feet, mostly to keep them from falling over, which they often do anyway. Be prepared for big muddy paw prints and water all over the walls and furniture on rainy days, or days when a dip in the creek or a big puddle just seems like a good idea. And wait till the dog shakes to dry off. If you think being dry is overrated, you're ready for a big dog.

7. Do you like dressing your dog in cute outfits? Big dog owners DO NOT do this. First of all, most of this clothing won't even fit over the dog's head. Second of all, you-and your dog-would be the laughingstocks of the neighborhood. If you think all a dog should wear is fur and a collar, you're ready for a big dog.

8. Do you have a big heart? Though love is not proportionate to size, sometimes it sure seems like it. There are no better hugs and a kisses than the ones you get from a dog that's life size. You know you want a big dog.