Shelter Dog Meal Donation Count:

Learn More

Love Big Dogs? These 14 Large Breed Pups Make Amazing Pets

By: Arlene Divina
Arlene Divina, one of the content writers at IHD, loves going on adventures with her adorable fur baby. She now creates informative content for pet parents. Read more
| December 13, 2024

Shutterstock

If you’ve ever had your heart stolen by a big dog, you know the joy of having a gentle giant by your side. Large-breed dogs bring their families an unmatched sense of loyalty, love, and companionship. Despite their size, many of these dogs are gentle, patient, and affectionate, making them incredible pets for the right households. Whether they’re snuggling on the couch, guarding your home, or joining you on outdoor adventures, big dogs have a way of filling your heart and home with love.

Golden Retriever

Shutterstock

Golden Retrievers are beloved for their friendly personalities and unwavering loyalty. These large dogs are gentle with children, playful with adults, and patient with other pets. Known for their intelligence, they excel in obedience training and love learning new tricks. Whether hiking trails or lounging at home, Golden Retrievers are affectionate companions that thrive on human connection.

Labrador Retriever

Shutterstock

Labrador Retrievers are bundles of energy and love. As one of the most popular large breeds, Labs are known for their outgoing and sociable nature. They’re great with kids, highly trainable, and always eager to please. Whether playing fetch or accompanying you on a jog, Labs bring endless joy and excitement to any family.

German Shepherd

Shutterstock

German Shepherds are loyal protectors and incredibly intelligent. These large dogs form strong bonds with their families and are highly versatile, excelling in roles like guarding, herding, and search-and-rescue. Despite their serious demeanor, German Shepherds have a soft side, often showing affection and devotion to those they love. They’re ideal for active families who can keep up with their energy and mental needs.

Bernese Mountain Dog

Shutterstock

Bernese Mountain Dogs are gentle giants who love cuddles and outdoor adventures. These large, fluffy dogs are known for their calm temperament and affectionate nature. Bernese Mountain Dogs are fantastic with kids and thrive in families that can provide them with plenty of attention and space to roam. Their endearing personalities and striking appearance make them unforgettable companions.

Great Dane

Shutterstock

Great Danes are affectionately known as “gentle giants.” Despite their massive size, they are calm, affectionate, and incredibly loyal. Great Danes are perfect for families with the space to accommodate their size and the love to match their big hearts. They’re excellent with children and often think they’re lap dogs, even if they take up the whole couch!

Newfoundland

Shutterstock

Newfoundlands are loving, water-loving giants with a protective streak. Known as “nanny dogs,” they are especially good with children and have an instinct to keep their family safe. Their gentle demeanor and massive size make them perfect for families looking for a calm and caring companion.

Irish Wolfhound

Shutterstock

Irish Wolfhounds are known for their regal appearance and gentle nature. These towering dogs are calm, patient, and great with families. Despite their hunting heritage, they are incredibly affectionate and thrive in loving homes. Their quiet disposition makes them excellent companions, proving that even the tallest dogs can have the softest hearts.

Saint Bernard

Shutterstock

Saint Bernards are iconic for their size and gentle, friendly demeanor. These large dogs are patient with children and affectionate with their families. They’re also known for their history as rescue dogs in snowy mountains, showcasing their protective and caring instincts. Saint Bernards thrive in homes where they can be a cherished family member.

Alaskan Malamute

the best weight loss supplements for your Alaskan MalamuteShutterstock

Alaskan Malamutes are strong, energetic dogs that love being part of an active family. These large, fluffy companions are playful and social, thriving on attention and interaction. They’re ideal for households that enjoy outdoor activities and can provide the mental and physical stimulation Malamutes need to stay happy and healthy.

Rottweiler

Shutterstock

Rottweilers are loyal, confident, and deeply affectionate with their families. While they may have a tough exterior, they’re often gentle and playful, especially with those they trust. Rottweilers are excellent guardians and thrive in homes that can provide them with proper training, socialization, and plenty of love.

Doberman Pinscher

Best bully sticks for DobermansShutterstock

Doberman Pinschers are sleek, intelligent, and incredibly loyal. These large dogs are protective of their families and excel in obedience training. Despite their reputation as fierce protectors, Dobermans are affectionate and gentle with those they love, making them wonderful companions for experienced dog owners.

Boxer

Shutterstock

Boxers are playful, energetic, and full of personality. These medium-to-large dogs are known for their goofy antics and love for their families. Boxers are excellent with kids and thrive in homes with plenty of exercise and affection. Their fun-loving nature makes them the clowns of the dog world, but their loyalty and affection are no joke.

Mastiff

Shutterstock

Mastiffs are one of the largest breeds, known for their calm and loving demeanor. Despite their size, they’re incredibly gentle and thrive on human companionship. Mastiffs are excellent with children and make great family pets for those who can accommodate their size and provide the love and care they need.

Great Pyrenees

Shutterstock

Great Pyrenees are majestic dogs with a calm and protective nature. They’re gentle with children and other pets, making them ideal for families. These large, fluffy companions are happiest when they can roam and protect their loved ones, showcasing their loyalty and devotion.

The Bigger the Pup, the Bigger the Love

Shutterstock

Large breed dogs remind us that love often comes in a massive, furry package. From the playful Boxer to the regal Irish Wolfhound, these dogs bring unparalleled joy, loyalty, and affection to their families. Despite their size, they are some of the gentlest and most loving companions you could ask for. Life with a big dog is full of laughter, cuddles, and memorable moments proving their hearts are as big as their paws. For those who love larger-than-life companions, these breeds are a perfect match.