7 Reasons Every Kid Should Grow Up with a Big Dog

Large dogs are patient

With great size comes great security, and that means large dogs are content and cool-headed. “Many big dogs tend to feel secure in their own position in the world—literally and figuratively—and they often don’t feel as compelled to prove themselves,” says Denise Flaim, a dog lover, breeder and the author of Little Kids and Their Big Dogs. “If they really wanted to, big dogs could be pretty fearsome bullies. But most abide by the philosophy that just because you can, doesn’t mean you should, and they know you don’t have to throw your weight around to be respected,” Flaim says. “Oftentimes, quiet dignity does just fine.” (These are the 50 secrets your pet wishes you knew.)