Friday, October 19, 2012

Dog Health Questions: I would love to have a big dog when im older, but im unsure about one thing...?

I've always pictured having one of those black and white great danes when im older (and if I had a big enough house), but i've only had a cat and a mini dachshund as pets.

I'm not afraid about the food or huge messes, i'm just afraid what could happen if the dog "snapped" one day. I know a lot about dog training and I know many people have large dogs that would never harm a fly, but the possibility still scares me. (I'm not even afraid of dogs at all!)

Is this something i should be legitimately concerned about? Would it be a bad idea to live alone with such a big dog?

Just something i was wondering.. ...thanks!

Basic Dog Training - Timing And Body Language



Recommended Answer:
If you want a Great Dane, you should be alright. They are extremely gentle and low key. :)

With any dogs there is always a chance that they will "snap" simply because they are animals and animals can be unpredictable. In my experience, small dogs are much more likely to bite than large dogs.
If you decide to get a dog, research the breeds and try to find people who have owned breeds that you are interested in. (Dog parks are a great place to look!)
Once you decide on a breed, the next step is to find a good breeder, preferably one with both parents on-site. Many breeders will be willing to give you the names of past clients as a reference. Training and socialization are vital and most vet offices can give you advice if you need assistance.

Overall, I don't think you have much to worry about, as long as you are wise about it. If you are still worries after researching your options, hold off until you feel more comfortable. There's no rush! Best of luck!

Effective Communication in Dog Training


  • If you're unsure
    Don't go into that door

  • Well, if the dog "snapped," somebody could get seriously hurt, and worst case, your other pets could die. However, I know a lot of people who have big dogs and small dogs/small pets living peacefully together, so if you get a well-bred, well-trained dog, I don't think you have to be concerned about it "snapping."

  • I've only ever heard of one dog that "snapped", but he had mental problems and a troubled past. I wouldn't worry about Great Danes because they've been known to be "a little dog in a big dogs body" or the "gentle giant". They love to jump on people's laps, would you believe that? They just don't realize how big they are. They love people and are very gentle.

  • well do all the reading you can about the breed and just treat the dog well also speak to a vet.

  • In my experience, and I believe statistics would support this, is that smaller dogs are more likely to snap than larger ones. Likely because dogs often bite out of fear. There is some correlation between certain breeds and the likelyhood that they will bite. If memory serves me I believe Dalmations are the worst for biting. Do a little research, choose a breed that best suits your needs. Personally, I recommend a mutt. Mutts seem to have a better temperment and less health problems than so-called "pure breds".

  • dogs who "snap" are usually ones with either little attention or are dogs who you try to change after you pamper them and then realize you don't want to have so much freewil

  • Dogs don't usually snap for no reason. If they are abused or have been abused previously this could be a concern. Things that could make a dog attack are trapping it in a corner, touching it's food or bones (when they're trying to eat) or messing with another dog it feels the need to protect (my older dog will attack someone if she sees them messing with one of my smaller ones). The best thing to do to help your concern would be to get a dog as a puppy and raise it your self.

  • I am scared of dogs when they bark but just don't look them in the eye or else they will start snapping and running after you.
    tip: If the dog snaps, try and calm the dog with a treat.

  • I'm a DVM and I would have to say that I am much more likely to be bitten by a small dog than a big dog. Little dogs are used to defending themselves from bigger pets and kids,and are therefore are more prone to nipping and actual biting.

  • I would say the chances of a Great Dane "snapping' would be very low if you got one from a reputable breeder and the dog was not instigated. My grandmother bred great danes for a long time and they are generally very gentle and make good campanions, I myself would love to own one but we dont have the space. The only time any of my grandmothers danes became violent was when one had had puppies and become extremely territorial toward other dogs entering her space, and actually ended up killing another female that got into her room. She was put down shortly after that, but she never became violent toward humans. As for living alone with a big dog like a Dane you have nothing to worry about. They are very loyal and very protective and are no more likely to harm their owner than any other non aggresive dog breed. I hope this answer helped.

  • Any dog could 'snap' not just big ones. I've only ever owned dogs on the bigger side, my first dog was 50 lbs, my second was around 65 and my puppy is growing and is currently 40 lbs. They've all been wonderful with me, though my second dog had issues as it was before we got him. If you're constantly thinking 'what if?' with this dog that you get one day it could give him a negative vibe. What about right now just hanging around big dogs that your friends might have and seeing how they are? Maybe pet-sit them for a day or something? I love my big dogs and if I get a dog(I've always adopted) I make sure that it's the right dog for me and my lifestyle and that I like their personality. :) Hope I've helped!

  • i am trying to ask a question on dodgerlist and was wondering if you could help me...i joined just not sure how to ask my question..

    thank you,
    kathy

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