Top 25 Big Dog Breeds: Size, Temperament, and Care Tips
It’s easy to see why big dog breeds have such a loyal fan base. Big dogs can be affectionate, steady, and surprisingly gentle, and they often make people feel a little more secure at home.
Still, living with a large dog comes with real responsibility. In this guide, you’ll learn what qualifies as a “big” or “giant” breed. Plus, we’ll compare popular big dog breeds by size, temperament, and day-to-day needs so you can choose with confidence.
What Counts as a Big Dog Breed?
Most large dog breeds fall around 50-90 pounds and are often 22 inches or taller at the shoulder. Giant dog breeds typically exceed 90-100 pounds and may reach 150+ pounds, along with extra height and heavier bone structure.
The difference matters because bigger dogs often need more space, stronger gear, and careful training. While personalities vary, many share common traits like loyalty, confidence, and a desire to stay close to family, which is part of what many people love about large dog breed temperament patterns.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Big Dog
If you’re comparing options from a big dogs list, it helps to weigh the benefits and the challenges before you commit. Here are a few pros and cons to keep in mind:
Pros
Big dogs often become loyal companions and family protectors. Many are calm and gentle once mature, and they can be a great match for active lifestyles.
They also tend to be highly trainable when you start early, which can make everyday life easier as they grow into their full strength.
Cons
Bigger dogs usually mean bigger bills, especially for food and veterinary care. Plus, some of the biggest dog breeds have shorter lifespans.
They also need room, consistent exercise, and reliable training. Without those basics, managing a strong dog can feel overwhelming.
Top 25 Big Dog Breeds
1. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are well known for friendly, outgoing personalities and an easy-to-live-with vibe. Many land in the 55–80-pound range, and they tend to enjoy people, routine, and being included in daily life.
Plan for daily exercise like brisk walks, fetching, or swimming, plus regular training refreshers. Shedding is steady, so brushing helps, and this breed is often a great fit for active households.
2. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are often gentle, affectionate dogs that like being close to their people. They typically weigh about 55-75 pounds and are widely valued for their patience and trainability.
Daily activity and mental stimulation help prevent boredom. Their longer coat needs consistent brushing, and they often suit families that want a sociable dog that thrives on companionship.
3. German Shepherd
Intelligent, loyal, and naturally protective, German Shepherds often range from 50-90 pounds. This is a dog that tends to do best with structure and clear expectations.
They need regular exercise plus “brain work” like obedience, scent games, or skill practice. Shedding can be heavy at times, so brushing matters, and they’re a strong match for pet parents that enjoy training.
4. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are powerful, confident dogs that often weigh 80-135 pounds and bond closely with family. With early socialization, many become calm, steady companions at home.
They benefit from daily walks and consistent obedience, so manners stay solid. Grooming is simple, but leadership and training are especially important for a dog with this much strength.
5. Great Dane
Often weighing over 110 pounds, Great Danes are true giants, and many have a sweet, affectionate personality that surprises first-time admirers. They often want to lounge near their people and lean in for attention.
Moderate, joint-friendly exercise is usually best, especially during growth. Grooming is easy, but space, sturdy supplies, and thoughtful handling are key for comfort and safety.
6. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs tend to be calm, affectionate, and people-focused, usually around 70-115 pounds. Many families love their gentle presence and “happy to be with you” attitude.
They do well with moderate daily exercise and plenty of time with family. Their thick coat needs frequent brushing, and they often fit homes that can handle shedding and cooler-weather comfort.
7. Saint Bernard
Often weighing between 120 and 180 pounds, Saint Bernards are massive dogs that are known for their patient and good-natured temperament. They can be a mellow, comforting presence when raised with routine and boundaries.
Exercise should be steady but not extreme, and heat management is important. Grooming varies by coat type, and drool is common, so they fit pet parents that don’t mind a little mess.
8. Mastiff
Mastiffs often weigh 120-200+ pounds and are usually calm, watchful dogs that take their job as “home guardian” seriously. Many bond tightly with family and can be reserved with strangers.
They don’t typically need nonstop exercise, but daily walks and early manners training are essential. Grooming is easy, and they fit homes with space and pet parents that want a relaxed but protective companion.
9. Cane Corso
Cane Corsos are confident, athletic guardians that often fall around 90-120 pounds. They tend to be deeply devoted to family, but they usually require experienced handling and thoughtful socialization.
Daily structured exercise and consistent training help this breed stay balanced. Grooming is minimal, and they fit pet parents that want a driven dog and are ready to stay engaged year-round.
10. Newfoundland
Known for their sweet, gentle temperaments, Newfoundlands often weigh 100-150 pounds. Many are patient and steady, which is part of why they’re so beloved in family settings.
They do well with moderate daily activity and often enjoy water. Their thick coat needs regular brushing, and they fit homes that can handle grooming and keep them comfortable in warm weather.
11. Alaskan Malamute
Malamutes are strong, independent dogs that commonly weigh 75-100 pounds and love being active outdoors. They’re often affectionate with family but can be stubborn without consistent guidance.
They need vigorous daily exercise and mental challenges. Grooming is a commitment due to heavy shedding, and they fit pet parents that want an outdoorsy companion and can stay consistent with training.
12. Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are athletic and energetic, usually around 35-60 pounds, with a personality that’s social and clever. They’re famous for independence, which can be charming until recall training becomes a reality.
They need substantial daily exercise and secure containment. Seasonal shedding can be intense, and they fit active homes that enjoy daily movement and don’t mind a dog that keeps life interesting.
13. Doberman Pinscher
If you're looking for an alert, loyal dog that's very people-oriented, consider the Doberman Pinscher. They often weigh 60-100 pounds, and many do best when they’re included in daily routines rather than left alone for long stretches.
Daily exercise plus consistent training helps them stay confident and well-mannered. Grooming is easy, and they fit pet parents that want a close companion and are ready to prioritize socialization.
14. Boxer
Boxers are playful, affectionate, and energetic, typically around 50-80 pounds. They often stay “puppy-ish” for longer than many breeds, which can be a lot of fun with the right structure.
They need daily exercise and ongoing manners training, especially for jumping and excitement. Their coat is easy to care for, and they fit families that want a spirited, loving dog and can keep up.
15. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rhodesian Ridgebacks tend to be athletic and independent, often weighing 70-85 pounds, with a calm, confident presence. Many are affectionate with family but not always overly clingy.
Daily activity helps keep them content, and training works best when it’s consistent and fair. Grooming is simple, and they fit pet parents that want a sleek athlete and can provide steady structure.
16. Standard Poodle
Usually weighing between 40 and 70 pounds, Standard Poodles are smart, active, and adaptable. They’re often excellent learners who enjoy training games and staying mentally busy.
They need daily exercise and enrichment, plus regular grooming and professional trims. They fit pet parents that want an intelligent companion and are prepared for coat maintenance.
17. Weimaraner
Weimaraners are energetic, affectionate dogs that often range from 55-90 pounds and like staying close to their people. Many struggle with boredom if they don’t get enough activity and attention.
They need vigorous exercise and consistent training to stay balanced. Grooming is simple, and they fit very active pet parents that want a constant companion and have time for daily engagement.
18. German Shorthaired Pointer
German Shorthaired Pointers (GSPs) are athletic, friendly, and driven, commonly around 45-70 pounds. They’re often happiest in homes that enjoy outdoor time and can give them a job, even if that job is daily training.
They need substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Grooming is minimal, and they fit pet parents that want a sporty partner and can commit to consistent activity.
19. Anatolian Shepherd
Anatolian Shepherds are protective, independent guardians that can range from 80-150 pounds. They often think for themselves and may be wary of strangers without early, ongoing socialization.
They need space, consistent leadership, and steady training rather than harsh correction. Grooming is moderate, and they fit experienced pet parents that want a serious guardian and have room to manage one.
20. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are gentle, calm giants that often weigh 105-180 pounds and stand very tall. Many are quiet housemates that enjoy lounging, but they still need appropriate daily movement.
Exercise should be regular but moderate, and soft bedding helps protect joints. Grooming is moderate, and many pet parents plan with the reality of a shorter lifespan in mind.
21. Great Pyrenees
Calm and patient, Great Pyrenees are guardian dogs that commonly range from 85-160 pounds. They often have a protective instinct and an independent streak that shows up in training.
They do best with consistent boundaries and steady daily exercise. Grooming is a big part of life due to heavy shedding, and they fit homes that want a mellow protector and can handle coat care.
22. Bullmastiff
Quiet and loyal, Bullmastiffs are guardians that usually weigh 100-130 pounds. Many are affectionate with family and reserved with strangers, which can be a good fit for a calmer household.
They need moderate exercise and early obedience training to keep manners dependable. Grooming is easy, and they fit pet parents that want a calm protector and value steady structure.
23. Akita
Akitas are dignified, loyal dogs that often weigh 70-130 pounds and can be quite independent. They may be selective with other animals, so socialization and management are important.
They need daily exercise and calm, consistent training. Brushing becomes especially important during shedding seasons, and they fit experienced pet parents that want a devoted but strong-willed companion.
24. Belgian Malinois
Belgian Malinois are extremely driven, athletic dogs that often weigh 40-80 pounds. This is a breed that tends to thrive with advanced training and a lot of daily purpose.
They need intense exercise, mental work, and consistent structure. Grooming is moderate, and they fit training-focused homes that can truly meet the breed’s needs.
25. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are confident, loyal retrievers that often weigh 55-80 pounds and can be more reserved than some other retrievers. They’re often happiest with clear rules and regular work.
Chessies need daily exercise and benefit from training games and outdoor time. Grooming is moderate, and they fit active pet parents that want a serious, capable retriever.
Best Big Dog Breeds for Families
When choosing large dog breeds for families, focus on gentle temperaments, patience with children, and good sociability, then back it up with training and supervision. Labs, Goldens, Newfoundlands, and Bernese Mountain Dogs are often solid starting points for many households.
Even so, no breed is “set-and-forget.” Consistent training, clear boundaries, and supervised interactions help big dogs succeed in busy family environments.
Care Considerations for Large Dog Breeds
Strong routines make everyday life easier, and good big dog breed care is mostly about consistency rather than perfection. Here are some important care considerations to be aware of:
Exercise Needs
Large dogs need daily movement, and many also need mental stimulation to stay content. When big dogs don’t get enough activity, weight gain and behavior issues can show up quickly.
Training
Early obedience and ongoing socialization are essential. Teaching leash manners, polite greetings, and reliable cues helps keep a strong dog safe and manageable as they grow.
Grooming
Short-coated breeds may only need occasional brushing, while thick-coated breeds need frequent coat care and shedding management. Nail trims, ear checks, and dental care matter for every coat type.
Nutrition
Large-breed diets can support healthier growth and joint development, especially in puppies. Portion control is critical, since extra weight puts strain on joints and overall health.
Health Concerns
Common issues include hip dysplasia, bloat, and joint problems, and some giant breeds have shorter average lifespans. Preventive care, appropriate exercise, and keeping a healthy weight can all make a meaningful difference.
Costs of Owning a Big Dog
Expect higher food expenses, bigger supplies (beds, crates, and collars), and higher veterinary costs. Boarding and grooming can also cost more for large dogs, and pet insurance may be worth considering for many families.
How to Choose the Right Big Dog for Your Lifestyle
Before adopting, ask what energy level you can truly support, how much space you have, and how comfortable you are with training a strong dog. It also helps to think about your level of experience and whether you’d prefer adopting or working with a breeder.
Picking the right match up front is often what separates a “great dog” experience from a stressful one.
Adopting or Buying a Big Dog
Adopting an adult large dog can be a great option, since size and temperament are often clearer. If buying, look for reputable breeders that health-test, answer questions openly, and allow you to see where puppies are raised.
Avoid red flags like secrecy, missing paperwork, or pressure to buy quickly. Before a big dog comes home, set up sturdy supplies, create a safe space, and plan to start training immediately.
Do Your Research
Big dogs can be amazing companions with the right preparation and realistic expectations. So, take time to research individual breeds carefully, then choose the dog that truly matches your home, schedule, and energy level.
If you’re actively exploring adoption or breed selection, meeting adult dogs and talking to rescues or breed clubs can help you narrow down the best fit. After all, a big dog is not just a pet, but a lifelong commitment and an important member of your family.
Interested in adopting a big dog? You can find dogs in your area right here on PetPlace!