There’s something unmistakably rewarding about welcoming a large dog into a busy household—more hair, more toys, more presence—but for many pet parents, every extra bit is worth it. According to NutriSource, a dog weighing 70 pounds or more qualifies as sizable, and loving life with one means embracing “more of everything that comes with a dog”.
It’s not just about the scale—it’s about the connection. Big dogs tend to come from working or sporting backgrounds, which often makes them sharp, trainable, and deeply in sync with their human pack. That means when daily life pulls in a dozen directions, these thoughtful giants can be steady, responsive anchors in the home.
A large breed brings weight—both literally and emotionally—that matches what a busy parent needs. They’re intuitive, loyal, and often calmer than their smaller counterparts, making them naturally suited to family life, even when time is tight.
Ideal Giant Dog Breeds for Busy Parents
Here are the 10 large dog breeds:
1. Giant Schnauzer
Busy parents often need a dog that can double as both a protective presence and a playful companion. The Giant Schnauzer fits that role well, offering loyalty, courage, and a temperament that adapts to family life. With their commanding look and strong personality, they can provide the reassurance that comes from having natural guard dogs at home.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), they were originally bred in Germany as versatile working dogs. Giant Schnauzers were tasked with driving cattle, guarding farms, and even pulling carts.
Their rugged build, weather-resistant rough coat, and strong presence made them indispensable in tough conditions. These roots explain why they remain bold, resilient, and incredibly capable in modern homes.
Beyond their history, they are notable for their distinct look. Their thick double coat of salt-and-pepper or jet black fur is complemented by bushy eyebrows and a beard that gives them a serious, almost wise expression.
Despite the intimidating exterior, their gentle disposition often surprises new families—they are affectionate, playful, and thrive on human companionship.
2. Irish Wolfhound
For busy parents looking for a calm presence in a large frame, the Irish Wolfhound is one of the most ideal giant dog breeds for busy parents. Despite being the tallest of all dogs, their temperament is gentle, even-tempered, and surprisingly easygoing.
Their massive size can seem intimidating at first, but families quickly realize they are among the most relaxed and patient companions.
What makes them work so well for households with kids and packed schedules is their steady nature. They’re not overly demanding, and their calm approach to life often helps balance out the noise and activity of a busy home.
They carry a rough coat with a wiry outer layer and a soft undercoat, giving them a rugged look that suits their ancient heritage.
The origins of the Irish Wolfhound stretch back centuries, with mentions as far back as ancient Rome and medieval Ireland. They were originally bred to hunt wolves, deer, and wild boar, often fighting alongside warriors in battle.
Armies once valued them for their strength and height, which could rival even the biggest game animals. Their history as working dogs explains their combination of power and grace.
3. Great Dane
When people think of the biggest dog breeds, the Great Dane almost always comes to mind. Despite their towering height and impressive build, they’re often considered great family dogs because of their calm, affectionate nature.
For busy parents, their steady temperament makes them a reliable presence in the home, whether relaxing with the kids or quietly standing watch.
These dogs are known for being incredibly loyal, often forming deep bonds with their families. While their size can be overwhelming, their gentle personality balances it out. The Great Dane has an impressive backstory.
Originally bred in Germany during the 1800s, they were created to hunt wild boar and guard estates. According to PetMD, over time, they earned the nickname “Apollo of Dogs” for their elegant stature and noble appearance.
They’re also notable in history as Pennsylvania’s official state dog and remain part of the AKC working group alongside other large mastiff-type breeds.
4. Bernese Mountain Dog
For families managing busy schedules, the Bernese Mountain Dog offers a rare combination of size, loyalty, and gentleness. These dogs are particularly good with everyone, especially children, making them a calm and affectionate companion in homes where little ones are present.
Their temperament allows them to blend seamlessly into family life, providing both protection and warmth without overwhelming the household.
These dogs are also excellent family pets because they remain playful and energetic well into adulthood. Originally from Switzerland, Berners were bred to pull carts, herd livestock, and protect farms. Their work history makes them sturdy, strong, and capable of enduring harsh conditions.
Farmers relied on them for intelligence and reliability, traits that persist in modern dogs and make them both obedient and attentive. Physically, Bernese Mountain Dogs are instantly recognizable by their thick double coat in striking tricolor patterns of black, rust, and white.
5. Newfoundland
For families with busy routines, the Newfoundland is a good family dog that combines size with gentle, patient behavior. Their calm demeanor makes them ideal companions for households with small children, providing both protection and an affectionate presence without being overbearing.
Despite their massive build, these dogs are approachable and friendly, helping busy parents feel confident about including them in daily life.
Newfoundlands are naturally friendly dogs, forming deep bonds with family members and adjusting well to various household dynamics. Their laid-back energy allows them to participate in family activities at a manageable pace.
Originating from the Canadian province of Newfoundland, these dogs were bred to assist fishermen. According to Hills Pet, their webbed feet and water-resistant double coat make them excellent swimmers, capable of hauling nets and assisting in rescues.
6. Leonberger
For busy parents seeking a dog that can provide both presence and affection, the Leonberger is one of the most impressive giant breeds to consider. Their calm and intelligent temperament makes them a steady, reassuring companion in active households.
Despite their size, they are surprisingly adaptable, able to blend into daily routines without overwhelming family life.
These dogs are known as great companions, forming strong bonds with family members and showing loyalty that matches their imposing size. They thrive when included in family activities and enjoy walks, playtime, and interaction with those they trust.
The Leonberger’s origins are as striking as their appearance. Bred in Germany by Heinrich Essen in the 1800s, the goal was to create a dog that resembled the lion on the town’s coat of arms.
They gained popularity among royalty and nobility, and despite near extinction during the World Wars, careful breeding preserved their lineage. Their history as guard dogs explains why they are alert, occasionally protective, and cautious around other dogs until properly socialized.
7. Borzoi
For families seeking a calm yet active companion, the Borzoi proves that large size doesn’t mean overwhelming energy at home. Their quiet demeanor makes them ideal for households where noise can be an issue, and they adapt well to family routines while still requiring daily bursts of exercise.
For busy parents, having a dog that can entertain itself with short sprints or gentle play can be a blessing.
They demonstrate that there is no such thing as a purely high-maintenance giant; Borzois combine patience, intelligence, and athleticism in a way that families can integrate into their daily lives. The Borzoi has a rich history as a hunting dog in Russia.
Originally called the Russian Wolfhound, they were bred to chase wolves, foxes, and hares across open terrain, relying on speed, stamina, and sharp instincts. Their noble heritage links them to Russian aristocracy, and the breed’s name itself translates to “swift,” reflecting their unparalleled agility and elegance.
8. Saint Bernard
For busy parents seeking a smart companion that combines strength with gentleness, the Saint Bernard is a remarkable choice. Their calm, patient nature makes them ideal for families with children, while their protective instincts provide reassurance in a busy household.
Despite their massive size, these dogs adapt well to family routines, offering both companionship and a natural sense of security.
Originating in the Swiss Alps, Saint Bernards were famously bred for mountain search and rescue. Known historically as “Barry Dogs” or “Noble Steeds,” they saved countless lives traversing harsh alpine terrain. Their history as rescue dogs explains their combination of strength and composed behavior, traits that modern families still appreciate.
Physically, Saint Bernards are enormous but gentle giants. They can be long-haired or short-haired, with coats in red and white, brown and white, or brindle and white, often featuring dark facial masks.
Their floppy ears, wrinkled forehead, and drooling jowls are part of their charm, while their patient, tolerant personality ensures they interact safely with children.
9. Great Pyrenees
For busy parents, the Great Pyrenees is a remarkable example of a calm and watchful companion. Their size and presence are impressive, yet their temperament is steady and reassuring. These dogs are naturally protective, using their loud bark to alert families to anything unusual, making them reliable guardians.
The Great Pyrenees has ancient origins, tracing back thousands of years to white mountain flock guardians in Asia Minor. Over time, they evolved in the Pyrenees Mountains to protect livestock in harsh conditions.
Physically, they are mostly white with optional gray, reddish-brown, or tan markings on ears, head, tail, or body. A unique feature is an extra, non-functional dewclaw on each hind leg. Their thick double coat is ideal for cold climates, and their size and stature make them imposing yet approachable.
10. Cane Corso
For busy parents seeking a protective yet affectionate companion, the Cane Corso stands out as a remarkable choice. When raised correctly with socialization from puppyhood, they become loyal, reliable family members. Their calm but alert nature makes them excellent watchdogs, offering reassurance without constant supervision.
These dogs are ideal for a household that can accommodate their house presence and activity needs. The Cane Corso is an ancient breed, descending from the Molossian war dogs of Roman times. Historically, they were used in warfare, hunting, and herding livestock.
The breed’s Latin-derived name translates to “bodyguard dog,” reflecting their instinct to protect property and family. Their short coat is easy to maintain, requiring minimal grooming with just occasional brushing and baths.
Conclusion
When choosing a giant dog for a busy household, it’s clear that size doesn’t mean compromise. These breeds may require much exercise, but their loyalty, patience, and gentle nature more than make up for the effort.
From playful puppies to fully grown adults, giant dogs bring energy, affection, and companionship into the home, quickly earning their spot as family members with even bigger hearts than their size might suggest.
It’s also important to consider practical needs like food and space, but for parents willing to plan ahead, the rewards are immense. With proper care, training, and attention, these gentle giants can integrate seamlessly into daily life, providing protection, love, and endless joy.
