Cute Big Dog Breeds: 20 Largest Canine Companions

Meet the gentle giants of the canine world! The Newfoundlands, with their thick coats and sweet temperaments, are one of the largest dog breeds out there, weighing in at 100-150 pounds.

These big dogs are known for their intelligence and loyalty, making them a popular choice as family pets. They're also natural-born swimmers, thanks to their webbed feet and water-resistant coats.

The Great Danes, on the other hand, are known for their striking appearance and friendly demeanor. They can grow up to 32 inches tall and weigh between 100-200 pounds, making them a formidable yet loving companion.

Whether you're a seasoned dog owner or a first-time pet parent, these cute big dog breeds are sure to capture your heart with their lovable personalities and majestic size.

The Great Dane is generally recognized as the largest breed in terms of height.

Irish Wolfhounds and English Mastiffs are also worthy contenders for the title of largest dog breed in terms of height.

The Mastiff is the clear winner when it comes to height and weight combined.

Many livestock guarding breeds are close to these canine giants in size.

The Irish Wolfhound is a tall breed, but it's not as heavy as some of the other large breeds.

The English Mastiff is a massive breed that's known for its large size and gentle temperament.

The Great Dane is a popular breed, but it's not as widely recognized for its size as some of the other large breeds.

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The Great Dane is generally recognised as being the largest breed in terms of height.

Irish Wolfhounds and English Mastiffs are worthy contenders for the title of largest dog breed.

The Mastiff's claim to being the largest breed in terms of height and weight combined is hard to argue with.

Many livestock guarding breeds come close to these canine giants in size.

If you've got room in your home and on your sofa, and plenty of time for socialising, training and reinforcing your fences, a giant dog breed could be the perfect match for you.

The Great Dane, Irish Wolfhound, and English Mastiff are often mentioned as the largest dog breeds.

Livestock guarding breeds are also quite large and impressive in size.

Giant dog breeds can take up a lot of room in your home and on your sofa.

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Big dog breeds require early socialization and training to become happy, healthy, well-mannered dogs. This means having a training plan in place from the moment your puppy arrives home.

Working with a professional trainer or attending obedience classes is a great way to get started. Alternatively, you can teach your dog yourself, but be sure to avoid overtaxing your puppy with too much training.

A slow and steady routine is key for large breed puppies, as they take longer to mature physically and mentally. Training is a lifelong endeavor that doesn't end once your pup grows up.

To optimize nutrition, focus on high-protein, low-fat meals for your big dog. These meals should also include glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids to improve joint health, which is a significant concern for large breeds.

First, ask yourself some key questions to narrow down the best breed for you and your family. The American Kennel Club's breed selector tool is a great place to start.

Consider how trainable you want your dog to be - some big breeds are easier to train than others. Energetic dogs require more exercise and attention, so think about your lifestyle and how much time you have to devote to your pet.

Think about how much shedding you can deal with - some big breeds shed a lot, while others are low-maintenance. How much barking can you handle? Some breeds are naturally quieter than others.

Make sure to consider your living situation - do you have a yard or a small apartment? If you have other pets, you'll want to choose a breed that gets along well with others. If you have kids, you'll want a breed that's gentle and patient.

Before bringing a big breed dog home, think about the costs involved - vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, and supplies can add up quickly. You'll also want to consider how much time you have to devote to training - big breeds require a lot of attention and exercise early on.

Here are some key questions to ask yourself:

Consider these questions carefully to find the perfect big breed dog for you and your family.

Early socialization and training are crucial for big dog breeds, as they're known for their independent spirits and need to develop good behavior and obedience from an early age.

Having a training plan in place right off the bat is essential, and working with a professional trainer or attending obedience classes is highly recommended. Big dogs take longer to mature physically and mentally, so a slow and steady routine is key.

Training is a lifelong endeavor that doesn't end once your pup grows up. You'll need to continue reinforcing good behavior and obedience throughout their life.

Large and giant dog breeds require fewer calories per pound than smaller breeds, so focus on high-protein, low-fat meals to optimize nutrition.

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If you're looking for a big dog breed that's perfect for families, consider the Leonberger. They're known for being good with children and other animals.

The Leonberger has a distinctive appearance with long hair and a beautiful face. Their long coats require regular grooming.

Here are some key facts about the Leonberger:

Saint Bernards are another big dog breed worth considering. They're charming, watchful, and love people-pleasing.

Saint Bernards have a drooling factor, but they make up for it with their sweet and calm presence.

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The Great Dane is a giant of a dog, standing 28-32 inches tall and weighing up to 150 pounds. They originated in Germany.

Their friendly and patient demeanor makes them an ideal family companion, but they do require regular, short walks to stay happy and healthy.

The Great Dane's size can be a challenge, but they can thrive in an apartment if given enough space to stretch out.

Here are some key facts about the Great Dane breed:

Despite their size, Great Danes are known for being gentle giants, especially around small children and smaller animals.

Their pointy ears and various coat colors make them easily recognizable, and their adaptability to city living makes them a great choice for many families.

The Leonberger is a rare breed that's perfect for those who want a large, loyal companion. They have a distinctive lion-like appearance with long hair and a beautiful face.

One thing to keep in mind is that Leonbergers require a lot of care and attention, especially when it comes to their long coats. They need regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

Leonbergers are also known for being good with children, people, and other animals, making them a great choice for families. They're social, obedient, and love to meet new people.

If you're a first-time dog owner, a Leonberger can be a great choice. They're relatively easy to train, and their outgoing personalities make them a joy to be around. However, they do require daily exercise and a lot of energy.

Here are some key facts about Leonbergers:

The Scottish Deerhound is a tall breed, standing at 31 inches in height. They're massive dogs, weighing in at 100 pounds.

Their calm and quiet demeanor makes them a great fit for families and single households alike. They're very affectionate, which is a big plus for families with kids.

Their patience also extends to training, making them ideal for first-time owners who want a large dog. They're a great choice for those who want a gentle giant.

However, their coats require daily grooming, which can be a bit of a challenge.

The Akita is a very stocky and muscular Japanese breed with pointed ears that look more like cat ears than dog ears.

They are originally bred to hunt large game, which makes them courageous. I've heard that they can be a bit wary of strangers, but with their family, they show a loving, loyal, and slightly silly side.

They have a thick double coat that protects them from the elements, which is why they prefer cold weather. This coat also makes them stand out in the pack.

They need to be socialized young to get along with people and other dogs, so they're best with more experienced dog owners.

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The Dogue de Bordeaux is a big, muscular dog that's loving and affectionate, but can be stubborn and challenging to control.

They're a Molosser breed with a mixed history, having been used for farm work, war, hunting, and even pit fighting.

Their reddish fawn coloration and smiling, heavily wrinkled face make them a standout breed.

On average, a Dogue de Bordeaux stands 63cm (24 inches) tall and weighs 48kg, which is still quite large, but easier to house than many other giant breeds.

They mature at around two years old, making them more agile and faster than their larger counterparts.

As a result, they require more exercise and physical activity to keep them happy and healthy.

Despite their size, they're great for owners who want a big but still active dog.

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a breed that thrives in cold climates thanks to its thick coat. They're known for being friendly, loyal, and sociable.

These dogs get along great with children and adults alike, making them a great addition to any family. They also integrate well into homes with other pets.

Bernese Mountain Dogs need at least an hour of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. A large fenced-in yard is a must to keep them active and engaged.

Here are some key facts about the Bernese Mountain Dog:

Overall, Bernese Mountain Dogs are a loving and adaptable breed that make great companions for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.

The Giant Schnauzer is a large and powerful breed. They typically weigh between 60-80 pounds and stand between 23.5-27.5 inches tall at the shoulder.

Giant Schnauzers are known for their intelligence and trainability, making them a popular choice as police and guard dogs. They are also highly energetic and require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.

One of the distinctive features of the Giant Schnauzer is their distinctive beard and eyebrows, which are made of long hair that needs to be regularly groomed. They also have a double coat that sheds heavily, so they require regular brushing to prevent matting.

Despite their size and strength, Giant Schnauzers are known for being loyal and loving companions. With proper training and socialization, they can make excellent family pets.

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The Borzoi, also known as a Russian Wolfhound, is a majestic breed with a rich history dating back to 16th-century Russia.

This gentle giant is a sight to behold, with its sleek, athletic build and silky, fine coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting.

Borzoi's are natural athletes, built for speed and agility, with a top running speed of up to 35 miles per hour.

Their short, smooth coats come in a variety of colors, including fawn, brindle, and black, with or without white markings.

Borzoi's are known for their calm and gentle nature, making them an excellent choice for families with children or for those who want a laid-back companion.

They are relatively low-maintenance pets, requiring daily walks and playtime, but not excessive exercise or training.

Borzoi's are prone to bloat and hip dysplasia, so regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet are essential to maintaining their health.

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The Labrador Retriever is a breed that's perfect for families, always up for an adventure and eager to please.

Their all-around athletic ability makes them a great companion for outdoor activities like hiking.

With an easy temperament and playful nature, they quickly adjust to any home environment.

This breed is not from Labrador, Canada, but rather from a neighboring island.

They're often referred to as a playmate, guide, or rescuer, and for good reason - their friendly nature makes them a loyal companion.

The Saint Bernard is a gentle giant, known for its calm presence and people-pleasing nature. They're easily recognizable by their white, tan, and black coats.

Saint Bernards are big dogs, standing between 26-30 inches tall and weighing between 120-180 pounds. They're a moderate activity level breed, which means they need regular exercise but don't require as much as some other breeds.

Their shedding factor is seasonal, which means they'll shed more heavily during certain times of the year. They also have a drooling factor, so be prepared for some slobber.

Saint Bernards are great with kids and families, making them a great pet choice for many families. They're also relatively easy to train, with a moderate trainability level.

Here are some key facts about Saint Bernards at a glance:

Saint Bernards are a loyal breed and make great watchdogs, thanks to their steady and protective nature.

Siberian Huskies are irresistibly cute with their striking eyes and coat colors.

They're great with families and other dogs, and despite their thick fur, they're not known to be smelly.

However, be prepared for a vocal companion - Siberian Huskies are very talkative.

If you're considering bringing a Siberian Husky into your home, here are some key facts to keep in mind:

| Weight | 35-60 pounds |

The Irish Wolfhound is a breed that's been around since the 15th century.

They're known to be both affectionate and protective, which makes them great companions.

Irish Wolfhounds are also the tallest recognized dog breed by the AKC, which is quite an impressive feat.

Their size is quite substantial, weighing in at 105 to 120 pounds.

For another approach, see: Irish Wolfhound Great Dane

The Broholmer is a massive breed, but don't let its size fool you - it's a total lap dog at heart. They can weigh up to 150 pounds and stand 27-30 inches tall, but they'll still try to squeeze onto your lap.

These gentle giants are loving and dedicated to their families, with a low to moderate activity level that makes them a great choice for busy owners. They're easy-going and get along with just about anyone, making them a great addition to many households.

The Broholmer's shedding factor is low to moderate, which is a bonus for anyone who's allergic or just doesn't want to deal with a lot of dog hair. With proper care, they can live for 8-10 years, providing plenty of love and companionship along the way.

Here are some key stats to keep in mind:

Overall, the Broholmer is a low-maintenance breed that's perfect for anyone who wants a loyal companion without a lot of fuss.

The Great Pyrenees is a wonderful breed, known for its calm demeanor and sweet personality. They're quiet canines who live well with other animals and kids due to their low prey drive.

These dogs have a unique coat that's resistant to tangles and dirt, but be prepared for some shedding, especially during seasonal changes. They need regular grooming to prevent matting.

A Great Pyrenees typically stands between 25-32 inches tall and weighs between 85-110 pounds. They have a moderate activity level, so they need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Their life expectancy is around 10-12 years, which is relatively long for a large breed. With proper care and attention, a Great Pyrenees can make a loving and loyal companion.

Here are some key characteristics of the Great Pyrenees breed:

Training a Great Pyrenees requires patience and consistency. They respond well to short, playful training sessions that avoid boredom.

The Tosa breed is a gentle giant from Japan, standing 21-24 inches tall and weighing between 100-200 pounds. They have a short coat that can be reddish brown, fawn, or apricot in color.

Tosas are known for their affectionate nature, as long as they know you. They make great family pets, but they can be wary of strangers and other dogs.

Their life expectancy is relatively long, ranging from 10-12 years. With proper care, Tosas can live a happy and healthy life.

Here's a quick rundown of Tosa breed characteristics:

Tosas are generally low shedders, making them a great choice for people with allergies. However, they do need regular grooming to keep their coats clean and healthy.

The Golden Retriever is a beloved breed known for its friendly and gentle nature. They were originally bred to retrieve game for hunters, which is where they got their name.

Their thick double coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Golden Retrievers shed heavily, especially during shedding season.

They are highly intelligent and easy to train, making them a popular choice as family pets and service dogs. With proper training, they can learn a wide range of commands and tasks.

Their friendly and calm demeanor makes them an excellent choice for families with children. However, they do require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Golden Retrievers are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Hip dysplasia and certain types of cancer are common health concerns in Golden Retrievers.

Their average lifespan is around 10-12 years, which is relatively long compared to some other breeds.

The Standard Poodle is a fantastic breed for families, thanks to its active personality and love of children. They're always up for a good play session or learning a new behavior.

One of the things that makes Standard Poodles stand out is their non-shedding coat, which makes them ideal for people with allergies. This is a big plus for families with allergy sufferers.

Standard Poodles are also incredibly versatile, excelling at activities like running, swimming, and retrieving. They're natural athletes and love to stay active.

The Airedale Terrier is a large breed that's known as the King of the Terriers, thanks to its size and dignified personality.

They can weigh anywhere from 50 to 70 pounds.

These dogs are bold and determined, but they also make excellent companions, which is a great combination.

Their size and personality make them a great fit for families who want a loyal and loving pet.

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The Collie is a breed that's truly one-of-a-kind. They're intelligent and loyal to a fault, which means they'll stick by your side through thick and thin.

One of the most distinctive features of the Collie is its thick coat, which comes in a variety of striking patterns including sable and blue merle. This breed has two main types: the long-haired "rough" Collie and the short-haired "smooth" Collie.

Collies weigh between 50 to 75 pounds, making them a medium-sized breed that's perfect for families or individuals who want a loyal companion.

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