LDR's "Billy" was as big if not bigger than Lima, and he could take rabbits as well or better than most dogs. "Bruce" is over 27" and he's been known to catch a rabbit or two !! LOL !! As for the food bill, do you realy think a 29" dog is going to eat that much more than a 25" dog ? Funnily enough, I was talking to Mally yesterday about food bills, and as I buy in bulk from a local butcher and game dealer, my dogs are fed the best, for very little outlay. You just need to shop around and find a good supplier. How mine and Davey's dogs turn out is yet to be seen, but they will get every chance.