Diet Cost Differences
Diet cost differences are reflected in both 'quality' and 'quantity': Small dogs (like Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers) have intestinal length to body length ratio of 4:1, weak digestion and absorption ability, need to choose small dog food with particle diameter below 3mm (protein content 25%-28%), monthly food intake about 1.5-2kg, cost 200-300 yuan; Large dogs (like Tibetan Mastiffs, Caucasian Shepherds) have intestinal ratio of 3:1, need high energy density food (above 3800 calories per kg), monthly food intake 8-12kg, and need to add 20% fresh meat (like chicken breast, beef) after adulthood, monthly diet expenditure at least 800 yuan.
"Different sized dogs have significant differences in nutritional needs. Scientific diet matching is the foundation of healthy care." - Pet Nutritionist
Medical Cost Comparison
Cost differences are even greater in special periods: Small dog neutering surgery costs about 800-1500 yuan, large dogs need 2000-3000 yuan (due to large anesthesia dosage and difficult post-operative care); Small dog deworming medicine (internal and external) about 60 yuan per tube, large dogs need 150+ yuan (charged by weight).
For space requirements, small dogs can live in 15 square meter single room apartments (need daily outdoor elimination), large dogs need at least 50+ square meters space, preferably with balcony or small yard for activity.
Behavior Management Differences
In behavior management, small dogs' 'barking problem' is more prominent (due to lack of security, will bark for 10+ minutes when hearing doorbell), need to use 'clicker + treats' combination during training, give commands when about to bark, reward quiet behavior promptly; Large dogs' 'jumping problem' is more dangerous (adult dogs' jumping impact force can reach 50kg, may knock down elderly or children), need to train 'sit to greet' from 4 months old, must use chest harness when going out (avoid neck injury).
In health management, small dogs are prone to 'hypoglycemia' (especially puppies, may faint if fasting over 12 hours), need to keep glucose oral solution handy; Large dogs are prone to 'hip dysplasia', need to supplement chondroitin from puppy period, avoid intense exercise.
Selection Recommendations
Small dogs are suitable for apartment living, require small activity space, but are highly alert and easily bark, need training to control volume. Large dogs need spacious activity areas, daily exercise needs far exceed small dogs, ensure sufficient time and energy for companionship and exercise before caring.
Additionally, large dog puppies grow fast, need to supplement calcium and phosphorus, prevent bone development problems. When choosing dogs, should comprehensively consider living conditions, economic ability and time energy to ensure ability to provide good living environment for dogs.