Adopting a Dog: Does Size Really Matter?

One thing many people evaluate when adopting a dog is size. You may find tiny teacup pups adorable or bear-sized dogs majestic and, consequently, think you want a dog based on your perceptions of their size.

However, how a dog’s size fits into your life matters more than aesthetic preferences.

From your physical capabilities to your budget and more, everything plays a part in deciding which size pup is right for you. Here’s what you should consider as you search for your perfect dog.

Landlord Restrictions

Are you renting your home? If so, your landlord might have a say in the size of the dog you bring into your rental.

Many apartments and rental homes have strict size or weight restrictions for pets. Some even ban certain breeds due to insurance issues.

Always double-check your lease and talk to your landlord before falling in love with a dog that might be too big for your community’s rules.

Learn More: Choosing the Right Dog When You Live in an Apartment

Your Physical Capabilities

For your safety and the dog's, it's essential to consider the size of the pup you can physically handle.

Big dogs often require someone with strength. Can you control a 70-pound Labrador when he decides he wants to chase a squirrel, or will that dog just pull you down?

If you have mobility issues or aren’t confident in your handling abilities, a smaller dog might be a safer match for you. However, don’t go too small, lest the dog get underfoot and cause you to fall!

Your Home

Your living space can impact the size of the dog that would thrive in your home.

For example, many large dogs do better in larger homes with backyards they can run around. Alternatively, if you're in a studio apartment and don't lead an active lifestyle, a smaller dog who is on the calmer side might be a better fit.

There are also safety factors to consider when it comes to dog size and your home. First, if you have a two-story house or you live on a higher floor of an apartment building, make sure that your dog isn’t so big that you can’t carry them down the stairs in an emergency.

The other consideration is where you live. If you live in a rural area with lots of wildlife and you aren't taking adequate precautions to ensure your pup doesn't become a coyote's dinner when they go outside, a small dog probably isn't the safest fit for your environment.

Who You Live With

When it comes to sharing space with a dog, you aren’t the only person who has to live with your decision if you live with other people. Consider everyone in your household and what is a safe choice for the people (and pets) you live with.

Small children can accidentally injure tiny, delicate dogs. Or, seniors might prefer dogs that aren’t large enough to knock them over.

Plus, if you have other pets, think about the size of the dog that would be ideal for them. For example, if you have a small dog who is afraid of large dogs, getting a dog their size would be a more considerate choice.

Your Budget

A dog’s size can have a direct impact on your wallet. Bigger dogs eat more, need larger crates and beds, and usually cost more in vet bills and medications.

If you’re working with a limited budget, a smaller dog may be a smarter choice. The caveat to that is some smaller breeds (like Frenchies) can have expensive medical issues, so keep that in mind if you want to keep your costs under control.

What You Want To Do With Your Dog

Consider what you want your life to look like with your dog. Do you want a lapdog who can travel everywhere with you? If so, a smaller pup might be the best fit for you.

Or are you dreaming of a running buddy or a dog to do agility or protection work with? If so, a medium or large dog might be better.

By really thinking about what you want to do with your dog, you’ll be able to determine which size pup will fit into those activities.

Learn More: How To Choose the Right Dog for Your Home

Final Thoughts

There's no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing the right dog. The most important thing is to find a dog whose size is an excellent match for the environment and lifestyle you can provide.