You’re drawn to big, lovable dogs—those gentle giants that steal the show. But choosing the right large breed means understanding their traits, needs, and care requirements.
This guide dives deep into popular large dog breeds, giving you the insights to pick a companion that truly fits your lifestyle. Plus, get expert guidance and training tools to help any pup thrive.
What Makes a Dog “Large”?
Large breeds typically weigh between 50 and 90 pounds and stand 22 to 27 inches tall. They have sturdy frames, big hearts, and often big personalities. But size isn’t the only factor—fitness, temperament, and energy level matter just as much.
Here’s what to keep in mind when picking a large breed:
- Exercise needs: Working breeds need daily activity, while lazy giants may prefer couch cuddles.
- Space: Do you have room indoors and outside for play and stretching?
- Health considerations: Large breeds face hip dysplasia, bloat, and joint issues more often.
- Temperament: Some are calm and gentle, others protective or energetic.
With that in mind, let’s explore 10 large dog breeds and what makes each unique.
1. Labrador Retriever
Labs are America’s favorite breed for good reason. They’re friendly, trainable, and love to play. Whether you’re hiking, swimming, or training, your Lab thrives on bonding.
- Size: 55–80 lb; 21.5–24.5 in
- Temperament: Outgoing, intelligent, eager to please
- Best for: Active families, water lovers, adventure seekers
Training tip: Start with basic obedience early and add games to channel their energy. Check out these helpful resources:
- Secrets to Dog Training: Stop Your Dog’s Behavior Problems! – Ideal for shaping manners.
- Brain Training for Dogs – Perfect for keeping their minds sharp.
2. German Shepherd
Smart and loyal, German Shepherds excel in service, protection, and family roles when trained correctly.
- Size: 65–90 lb; 22–26 in
- Temperament: Confident, courageous, intelligent
- Best for: Experienced owners, active households, protection work
Focus on early socialization—exposure to people, children, and other animals reduces protective instincts. Brain games keep them mentally satisfied.
3. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers bring warmth and affection wherever they go. They’re naturally gentle and eager to learn.
- Size: 55–75 lb; 21.5–24 in
- Temperament: Friendly, patient, affectionate
- Best for: Families with kids, therapy work, social dogs
Their friendly nature can lead to boundary issues—training should include calm greetings. Add brain training sessions for lasting manners.
4. Great Dane
These gentle giants combine elegance with devotion. Great Danes are calm, patient, and love cuddling.
- Size: 110–175 lb; 28–32 in
- Temperament: Calm, affectionate, patient
- Best for: Adults, quiet homes, oversized lap lovers
They’re prone to bloat—feed smaller meals and avoid exercise right after eating. Potty-training is crucial; check out How To Housetrain & Potty Train Any Dog for full guidance.
5. Bernese Mountain Dog
With a calm demeanor and striking coat, Berners are perfect family pets and outdoor companions.
- Size: 70–115 lb; 23–28 in
- Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, loyal
- Best for: Cold climate homes, calm families, first-time owners
Early training keeps them focused. Add mental games to stave off boredom during long winter months.
6. Boxer
Boxers pack energy and loyalty. They’re playful protectors who need daily physical and mental stimulation.
- Size: 50–80 lb; 21–25 in
- Temperament: Playful, energetic, alert
- Best for: Active families, city and suburban living
Enroll in obedience and agility classes early. Brain challenges and consistent training = success.
7. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are bold and protective. With proper guidance, they’re devoted family guardians.
- Size: 80–135 lb; 22–27 in
- Temperament: Confident, loyal, protective
- Best for: Experienced handlers, protective families
Socialization and leadership are non-negotiable. A reactivity webinar like Solve Dog Reactivity AutoWebinar can be invaluable when facing protective instincts.
8. Newfoundland
Known for rescues and boundless affection, Newfies are colossal softies who love their humans.
- Size: 100–150 lb; 26–28 in
- Temperament: Gentle, patient, sweet-natured
- Best for: Kids, calm households, water lovers
Keep an eye on joint health. Training is critical to prevent strength from turning into stubborn pulling—obeying basic commands is essential.
9. Irish Wolfhound
These majestic hounds mix nobility with a laid-back personality. Despite their size, they’re gentle and affectionate.
- Size: 105–140 lb; 30–35 in (tallest breed)
- Temperament: Calm, dignified, sweet
- Best for: Quiet homes, tall spaces, dog lovers who want serenity
They mature slowly—training should begin early to foster manners. Focus on leash training with patience and consistency.
10. Great Pyrenees
Bred to guard livestock, Great Pyrenees are protective, calm, and require firm but gentle leadership.
- Size: 85–115 lb; 25–32 in
- Temperament: Independent, affectionate, protective
- Best for: Quiet families, rural settings, patient owners
Consistency is key; they can be stubborn. Brain training tools help engage their minds and reinforce leadership.
Choosing the Right Breed: Quick Comparison
| Breed | Energy Level | Temperament | Exercise | Training Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Labrador | High | Friendly | Daily walks & games | Obedience & brain games |
| German Shepherd | High | Protective | Long walks & work | Socialization & control |
| Golden Retriever | Medium | Patient | Active play | Calm greetings |
| Great Dane | Medium | Gentle | Moderate daily activity | House training & basic commands |
| Bernese | Medium | Calm | Walks & play | Mental stimulation |
| Boxer | High | Playful | Daily runs | Focus & agility |
| Rottweiler | Medium | Protective | Exercise & training | Leadership & control |
| Newfoundland | Low–Medium | Sweet | Gentle walks | Obedience & care |
| Irish Wolfhound | Low–Medium | Gentle | Walks | Leash manners |
| Great Pyrenees | Low–Medium | Independent | Walks | Leadership & confidence |
Preparing for a Large Breed Life
Once you’ve narrowed down your match, set yourself up for success with the right preparation:
- Space & comfort: Room for them to stretch—bigger crates, waiting areas, toys.
- Nutrition: Joint-supporting diets, measured feeding to maintain healthy weight.
- Exercise routine: Balance activity with low-impact joint care—walks, swimming, fetch.
- Training plan: Obedience, leash manners, house training from day one.
- Health care: Regular vet checkups with joint and heart assessments.
- Socialization: Early exposure to sights and sounds of daily life ensures calm behavior later.
Level Up with Expert Training Tools
Investing in powerful training tools ensures your large breed grows into a calm, confident companion.
- Secrets to Dog Training: Stop Your Dog’s Behavior Problems! – transform even the boisterous breeds.
- Solve Dog Reactivity AutoWebinar – essential for protective or reactive breeds like Rottweilers.
- Brain Training for Dogs – mental enrichment experts recommend.
- How To Housetrain & Potty Train Any Dog – a must-have for housetraining any size dog.
Conclusion
Big dogs come with big rewards—and responsibilities. Choosing the right breed for your energy, space, and lifestyle means a lifelong bond that grows stronger every day.
GSummarizing your next steps:
- Match a breed to your lifestyle
- Prepare your home, schedule, and training plan
- Use expert tools to streamline training and reduce stress
Your giant companion is out there—make today the day you bring them home. Click any link above to get started with training and prep tools that ensure a smooth, joyful journey together.
This article includes affiliate links. You get top-ranked training guidance and I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you—every tool recommended is tried, trusted, and worth it.