Are you looking for a lovable, loyal companion to add to your family? Do you love the idea of having a big dog, but worry about them being too active or rowdy? Fear not! Big dogs come in all sizes, personalities and temperaments. From gentle giants to loyal protectors, there is a breed of large dog that is perfect for any family. In this blog post, we’ll explore 10 of the top large breeds that make great family pets. Keep reading to learn more about these gentle giants and how they can become the perfect addition to your home!
1) Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are known for their gentle and loyal nature, making them great family pets. These big dogs are also excellent swimmers and love to play in the water.
They are also great with children and other pets, as their patience and calm demeanor make them the perfect playmates. Despite their size, Newfoundlands are not overly active dogs and are content to lounge around the house with their family. However, they do require regular exercise to maintain their health and well-being. Overall, Newfoundlands make excellent companions for families looking for a big, gentle giant to join their household.
2) Leonberger
Leonbergers are a German breed of dogs that were bred for companionship. They have a thick, luxurious coat that requires regular grooming. These gentle giants are intelligent, loyal, and loving. They are great with children and other pets and have a calm, steady demeanor. Leonbergers are also great watchdogs and will protect their family if needed. They are typically easy to train and are happy to be with their family at all times.
3) Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are one of the tallest dog breeds, reaching heights of up to 7 feet when standing on their hind legs. Despite their imposing size, they are gentle giants, known for their calm and patient temperament. They are great with children and other pets, making them a wonderful addition to any family.
4) Neapolitan Mastiff
A large and powerful breed, the Neapolitan Mastiff is a gentle giant that makes a great family pet. With its distinctive wrinkled skin and droopy jowls, this breed may look intimidating, but it’s actually quite docile and loyal. They are also protective of their family and can be reserved around strangers, making them excellent watchdogs.
5) Saint Bernard
Known for their loyalty and intelligence, Saint Bernards are a popular choice for families with children. They are a giant breed that can weigh up to 200 pounds and are often used as search and rescue dogs due to their excellent tracking abilities. Saint Bernards are also known for their friendly and gentle nature, making them great companions for families.
6) English Mastiff
The English Mastiff is one of the largest dog breeds and can weigh up to 220 pounds. Despite their size, they are known for their gentle nature and loyalty to their owners. They make great family pets and are often referred to as “gentle giants.” However, their large size does require a spacious living area and a lot of exercise to keep them healthy and happy. They are also known for their drooling and snoring, so it’s important to be prepared for these unique traits if considering an English Mastiff as a pet.
7) Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is a large, muscular breed originally bred to guard livestock in Tibet. They have a thick, long coat that comes in various colors, and their height ranges from 24 to 30 inches. They are known for their loyalty and protectiveness, making them great guard dogs.
8) Great Dane
The Great Dane is a beloved breed known for their gentle nature despite their massive size. They are often referred to as “gentle giants” and make great family pets due to their calm temperament and love for human companionship.
9) Caucasian Shepherd Dog
The Caucasian Shepherd Dog, also known as the Caucasian Ovcharka, is a large breed originating from the Caucasus Mountains. They were traditionally used as livestock guardian dogs and are known for their protective nature. While they can be loving and loyal pets, their strong-willed personality requires a firm and experienced owner.
10) Alaskan Malamute
A loyal and intelligent breed, the Alaskan Malamute is a perfect choice for families who love to spend time outdoors. These dogs are known for their strength and endurance, and their thick fur keeps them warm even in the coldest of climates. With proper training and socialization, the Alaskan Malamute makes a wonderful addition to any home.