5 Common Myths About Giant Breed Dogs—Busted!
Giant breed dogs turn heads wherever they go, but they also come with a lot of misconceptions. From their exercise needs to their couch-hogging tendencies, people have plenty of opinions about big dogs—many of which just aren’t true.
So let’s set the record straight! Here are five of the biggest myths about giant breeds and the truth behind them. 🐾
Myth #1: Giant Breeds Don’t Need Much Exercise
Reality: Just because your Great Dane is snoozing on the couch now doesn’t mean they don’t need movement! Giant breeds may not have the endless energy of a Border Collie, but regular, low-impact exercise is critical to keep them strong and mobile.
Why the myth exists: Their laid-back personalities make them seem lazy, but without movement, they can develop obesity, joint problems, and destructive habits.
✅ The truth: Daily walks, swimming, and structured play sessions keep them healthy—just don’t overdo it, especially when they’re young and still growing!
Myth #2: Big Dogs Don’t Need Training Because They’re Gentle
Reality: A well-behaved 10-lb dog is nice. A well-behaved 150-lb dog is necessary.
Why the myth exists: Many giant breeds are known as “gentle giants,” so people assume they’re naturally well-mannered. But any dog—no matter the size—needs training to be a good companion.
✅ The truth: Teaching basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” “leave it,” and recall is non-negotiable when your dog is big enough to accidentally knock over an adult! Start training early and stay consistent for a well-mannered, easy-to-manage big pup.
Myth #3: They Eat a Ton of Food
Reality: While giant breeds do eat more than small dogs, it’s not as extreme as you might think.
Why the myth exists: A 150-lb dog sounds like they’d eat a full grocery aisle daily, but their metabolism is actually slower than that of smaller, high-energy breeds.
✅ The truth: Instead of focusing on quantity, focus on quality. Feeding them the right balance of protein, fat, and nutrients keeps them healthy without overfeeding. Also, split meals into two or three smaller portions per day to help prevent bloat (a common issue in big dogs).
Myth #4: Only Small Dogs Can Be Lap Dogs
Reality: Giant breed dogs don’t just want to be near you—they want to be on you. 😆
Why the myth exists: Big dogs might not fit on a lap the way a Chihuahua does, but that doesn’t stop them from trying!
✅ The truth: Many giant breeds are incredibly affectionate and don’t realize (or don’t care) that they’re too big for lap life. If you have a giant dog, expect full-body leans, head-in-your-lap moments, and a complete lack of personal space. And let’s be honest… we love every second of it. ❤️
Myth #5: Giant Breeds Aren’t Good Apartment Dogs
Reality: Size doesn’t determine whether a dog can live in an apartment—energy level and temperament do.
Why the myth exists: People assume that big dogs need big yards, but many giant breeds are actually very low-energy indoors and prefer lounging most of the day.
✅ The truth: As long as they get daily walks and mental stimulation, many giant breeds thrive in apartments. The key? Providing regular exercise and training so they can coexist happily in a smaller space.
Final Thoughts: Big Dogs, Big Myths, Big Love
Giant breed dogs may be big, but they’re also loving, loyal, and just as trainable as any other dog. Whether they’re curling up in your lap (even when they don’t fit) or proving they’re perfectly fine in an apartment, these gentle giants never fail to surprise us.
🐾 What’s the funniest myth you’ve heard about big dogs? Drop it in the comments! 👇
