Best Large Dog Breeds: Top 5 Gentle Giants Most Recommended By Experts

The List: Best Large Dog Breeds, According to Pup Experts

1. Bernese Mountain Dog

This breed has the potential to outgrow their owner as they can easily exceed 100 pounds. But despite their size, the Bernese mountain dog is one of the friendliest pups around. “These dogs may be one of the largest dog breeds, but they’re truly gentle giants with a sweet, calm and affectionate nature,” says Good Housekeeping. “Bernese mountain dogs are also eager to please, which mean they’re typically easy to train.”

“Berners, Bernies, or Bernese mountain dogs, whatever you call them, this Swiss breed would risk life and limb to help rescue people stranded in the Alps,” adds The Spruce Pets. “It’s incredibly protective—but not aggressive—with people. Despite their large size, they’re very gentle (especially with younger kids) and love inclusion in family activities.”

This breed is big and strong, but equally cuddly and sweet. While far too big to be a lap dog, many Bernese Mountain Dogs will still try to crawl into their owner’s arms. “How many things in this world are both cuddly and statuesque? Very few, but the Bernese mountain dog is one of them,” writes Newsweek. “Originally bred as worker dogs in the Swiss alps, today they sit at the side of proud pet owners the world over. A word to the weak-armed: this is a strong dog; buy a good lead.”

2. Great Dane

One of the biggest and tallest dogs in the world, a Great Dane is hard to miss. However, these dogs tend to be quite relaxed in both demeanor and behavior. “Calm, loyal, and clocking in at 200 pounds fully grown, the Great Dane is the gentle giant of the canine world,” says The Spruce Pets. “But don’t let their massive stature fool you—these king-sized pooches are calm and only require a few walks per day once they’re out of puppyhood.”

“One of the most identifiable dog breeds is the Great Dane. They’re just… huge. Tall and lanky, their pointy ears accentuate their stature,” adds PureWow. “You can find them in many colors, including the stunning Harlequin, a black and white spotted pattern. Protective and adaptable creatures, The Great Dane Club of America says these pups enjoy playtime with their family members and mentally stimulating activities.”

These pups are as tall as they are large, with a Great Dane actually holding the record for tallest dog. “Great Dane’s will hog the whole sofa, but you won’t care because they are so patient, easy-going, and don’t bark much. And as far as tall dog breeds go, they’re the high-rise of canines, especially when they are on their hind legs,” notes Reader’s Digest. “A Great Dane named Zeus was an astonishing 44 inches tall at the shoulder when he was named the World’s Tallest Dog by Guinness World Records in 2012.”

3. German Shepherd

You may think of a German Shepherd as a guard dog or a police canine, and they certainly can excel in those roles. But beyond their great working abilities, they also make for wonderful pets. “Known for their strength and intelligence, German Shepherds are highly trainable and quite powerful,” says Woman’s Day. “They’re also very loyal and courageous.”

“German shepherds have long served as hunting and herding dogs in Germany. Often trained as service dogs, they work with police, search and rescue, and the military because of their intelligence and hardworking attitude,” adds The Spruce Pets. “When it comes to picking a dog for the family, this breed is incredibly loyal and loving, making them the perfect choice for an active family.”

When it comes to training, you’ll be pleased to know that the German Shepherd loves to learn. “Known for their hard work on police forces, German Shepherds are diligent workers. They learn quickly and are extremely obedient—as long as they’re trained and socialized early,” explains PureWow. “While they can be aggressive, German Shepherds also love to play and can adapt to more relaxing lifestyles if exposed as puppies.”

4. Golden Retriever

You’d be hard-pressed to find a list of large dog breeds that didn’t include the Golden Retriever. These universally beloved dogs are widely considered the ideal pet for their affectionate personalities and striking golden coats. “Golden Retrievers are extremely friendly and lovable dogs, which is why they’re amazing family dogs and service dogs,” says Southern Living. “If you’re looking for an all-around good boy, you can’t go wrong with a Golden Retriever.”

“Golden retrievers are depicted as the quintessential family dog in movies and television from the ’90s sitcom ‘Full House’ to the ‘Air Bud’ movie franchise,” notes The Spruce Pets. “Goldens are known for their super sweet, loving personalities; patience; and intelligence. Golden retrievers are another top pick for service as search and rescue, therapy, or comfort dogs.”

Make sure you give your Golden plenty to do to keep them happy and healthy. “Goldens are active dogs who need a job. After all, they were bred as working, hunting dogs,” explains Puppy In Training. “So long walks, retrieving, swimming, and other activities with the family will help expend his almost limitless energy. They are very trainable and trusting and, even though they may tolerate some rough handling, are not likely to snap.”

5. Labrador Retriever

Another classic breed, the Labrador Retriever has actually been voted America’s favorite. And if you’ve ever met a lab, you probably understand why. As The Pioneer Woman says, “this breed is America’s favorite for a reason: Friendly, easygoing, and athletic, labs—whether golden, chocolate, or black—make for loving companions and enthusiastic fetch partners.”

“From their sweet, loving personalities to their never-ending enthusiasm, there’s a lot to love about Labrador retrievers,” says The Spruce Pets. “Labs are known for their intelligence and good temperament. Bred as hunting dogs, they are excellent companions and more straightforward to train than other breeds; hence they work as service dogs for the blind, handicapped assistance, therapy dogs, and search and rescue.”

If you train your lab well, they make for excellent family pets. “Labs are friendly and never met a stranger. They love everyone and are good with other dogs. They’re playful and even-tempered,” notes Puppy In Training. “They can be great with children when their needs are met. And well-bred, socialized, and trained labs usually love to be petted and even cuddled.”

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Sources:

• Good Housekeeping
• The Pioneer Woman
• Southern Living
• Woman’s Day
• The Spruce Pets
• Martha Stewart
• Newsweek
• Puppy In Training
• PureWow
• Reader’s Digest

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