Dog sitting large dogs vs small dogs

Bark babies come in all different shapes and sizes, but how does this affect you, as a dog sitter? Is there a variation in sitting large dogs vs small dogs? If so, how does pet care compare with puppers that are small vs large dogs?

As always, we’re here to offer tips and tricks on how best to understand the difference between sitting a large breed vs a small breed dog. We’ll talk about important factors to consider when snuffle-sitting one or the other, health problems to watch out for, and any additional bits of info to be aware of so you can be a pup pal on the planet.

The differences between sitting large dogs vs small dogs

Before we dive into paws first, it’s important to mention how different each doggo is, regardless of size. The characteristics of a pupper’s breed or mix will have as much of an impact on their paw personality, as well as their medical history. This has more to do with any noticeable or common traits found between large dogs vs small dogs. 

There are both pros and cons to caring for any sized dog, but we’re not here to discuss whether one size is better than the other. We just want to offer some paw pearls of wisdom! So, without further arrooo, let’s dig in!

Size: Gentle giants vs toy breeds

Yeah, duh! Let’s start with the most obvious point - large dogs and bigger than small dogs. But, when it comes to dog sitting, this is an important point to remember. Keeping edible treats, objects of curiosity, or harmful substances will be easier out of paw reach for smaller dogs, whilst some gentle giants will have no issue sneaking a snack from a kitchen counter. Be vigilant of breakable ornaments, big-boned babies sometimes don’t realize their size and can easily knock glasses, vases, or bowls off a table without meaning to.

On the flip side, our tiny tail-waggers can easily slip past human legs and through guard gates. Be aware of where they are, particularly when leaving the home, walking downstairs, or entering an area they’re not allowed in. Toy breeds may look like teddy bears, but their small size can land them in all kinds of mischief.

Walking small vs large dogs

Similar to the size point above, if a dog has longer legs, they won’t become as tired as quickly. Whilst every doggo needs at least one walk a day, smaller dogs like Pomeranians or Cockapoos won’t require as long a walk as an Alaskan Malamute, for example.

The size of a pup will also determine whether the pet parents want them to wear a collar or harness when they’re out and about. A collar might not be safe for tiny toy necks, whilst dogs the size of small bears will have trouble finding one that fits comfortably. Ask this as part of your handover with their parents.

Dog food for a large breed vs small breed dog

Contrary to what many pet pals think, mini pups actually require a higher calorie intake in comparison per day than their gentle giant counterparts. Why? They have a higher metabolism than big dog breeds. As Jennifer Coates DVM from petMED explains:

“...small dogs need to take in more calories per pound than large dogs. For example, a ten-pound dog may need 400 calories (kcal) per day to maintain a healthy weight, while a 100-pound dog could require 2,250 calories per day.”

Larger dogs, particularly once they’ve reached their senior years, will need diets to help with their aging bones. Joint issues are prevalent in almost all large doggo breeds. Whilst small snuffles do best with foods rich in antioxidants - they have an overall longer lifespan and this helps to keep them healthy.

Because of all this, it’s important to stick to the food plan and diet of their pet parents. Don’t feed your new paw pal anything that hasn’t been okayed by their parents or their vet.

Trainability: Who’s top dog?

Every snuffle has its own unique ability to learn and listen, and environmental, and nurture factors can impact this as much as their genetics. Stereotypically, it’s often thought smaller dogs are harder to train or more stubborn about listening to their humans. However, there is a bit of evidence to suggest this may be true. 

According to the American Kennel Club, the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna conducted a study to determine whether size mattered when it came to training dogs. The evidence they gathered from over 1200 pet parents found that:

• “Small dogs were less obedient (for example, they are not as reliable in responding to common commands like “Sit,” “Down,” and “Come”).
• Small dogs were more excitable and pugnacious (more likely to bark or growl at strangers, visitors, or other dogs).
• Small dogs were more anxious and fearful (easily spooked in strange situations, or when exposed to loud noises like thunder and fireworks, and nervous in the presence of strangers).”

As a sitter and pet pal, it’s always useful to know how obedient a pup is going to be, especially when out of the house and away from their territory. Again, this will be completely dependent on the dog’s personality, but be sure to chat with the parents about behaviors and training beforehand. 

If you’re ever worried about your snuffle’s size or health, our Standard and Premium members have access to our 24/7 Vet Advice Line to help with any queries or concerns. Not a member yet? Whether you’re a pet parent to a gentle giant or a tiny teddy toy breed, you can find loads of trusted, verified sitters who are keen to care for your fur family. Have a sneak peek before signing up.