What is The Big Dog Blueprint?
A blog about the real-life experience of raising a very large dog in a small one-bedroom apartment, with stories, practical ideas, routines, enrichment, organization, and the everyday realities of big-dog life.
Who is Luna?
Luna is the Bullmastiff mix at the center of The Big Dog Blueprint. She came into my life unexpectedly at five months old and now weighs around 110 pounds.
Why did you start The Big Dog Blueprint?
I started The Big Dog Blueprint to share what I’ve learned from actually doing this. I never planned on having a giant-breed dog, much less one in a small apartment, so I had to figure things out as I went. This site is a place to share that experience, the things that work, the things that don’t, and everything in between.
Is The Big Dog Blueprint a dog-training website?
No. The Big Dog Blueprint isn’t a dog-training website. I’m not a professional dog trainer or veterinarian. I’m sharing my own experiences, routines, ideas, and lessons from living with Luna and figuring out how to make life with a very large dog work in a small space.
Are the recommendations based on your personal experience?
Yes. Many of the ideas and products I talk about come from things I’ve actually tried with Luna. I’ll share what worked, what didn’t, and what I learned along the way. Personal experience is just that, though, so readers should consider their own dog’s needs and consult a qualified professional when appropriate.
How can I find a dog like Luna?
Luna came into my life unexpectedly, so I didn’t go looking for her. If you’re interested in a Bullmastiff or another large-breed dog, you can look through reputable rescues, shelters, breed-specific rescues, or responsible breeders. The right place to start depends on the type of dog you’re looking for and whether you’re interested in adoption or purchasing from a breeder.
How much does veterinary care cost for a large dog?
Costs vary, but routine care can add up quickly. I found a vet who charges $30 per vaccination, so Luna’s two yearly shots cost about $60, plus a $60 office visit. A routine checkup can run around $200.
Luna has also had two emergencies. One cost a little over $300 for an ear problem, shots, and medication. Another cost over $500 when she split a nail and exposed the nerve.
These are my actual costs with Luna, not standard veterinary prices.
Can I save money on my dog’s prescription medications?
Sometimes. It’s worth comparing prices before filling a prescription. There are prescription-coupon services, such as GoodRx, that allow you to compare medication prices and find available discounts. Depending on the medication, the price through a pharmacy using a coupon may be less than what you would pay through your veterinarian.
Always check with your veterinarian about where and how your dog’s prescription should be filled, and make sure you’re comparing the exact medication and dosage.
Still Have Questions?
Didn’t find what you were looking for? Feel free to reach out through the Contact page.
