Becoming a first-time dog owner can be an enjoyable experience. You spend hours researching which dog would be a perfect addition to your home, socializing with pet parents asking about their experiences, and also noticing every gentle giant that passes by in a public place.
For first-time owners, selecting the right kind of breed can be a tiring process, especially when your heart is set on large breeds. Big dogs can offer the same amount of love as smaller pups do, but they have different needs. It is recommended to look at factors like grooming, exercise needs, training requirements, and temperament before choosing your companion.
This guide has been created for novice owners, new families, and those who dream of having an affectionate, easygoing dog who is friendly with kids. We have gathered a list of the best big dogs to help you confidently choose and become first-time pet owners.
Best Big Dog Breeds for First-Time Parents
1. Newfoundland
Newfoundland is one of the most sweet-tempered large breed dogs you will ever find. They shine in households where they’re considered part of the family. As stated by the AKC, they have earned the title of ‘nanny dogs’ due to their deep loyalty and calm temperament.
This giant dog can impress first-time pet owners with their high adaptability in various environments. They are quite known for their loyalty and affectionate nature. Regardless of their size, they do not require excessive exercise. Regular walks are enough to keep them healthy and cheerful.
Because of their thick coats, they need proper brushing at least once a week. Their nails should also be properly trimmed to avoid discomfort. They are also quite trainable as they have an eager-to-please attitude. However, a Newfoundland can be quite stubborn, and they are also famous for drooling.
2. Boxer
Boxers are considered to be good family dogs because they offer a balance of fun, energy, and loyalty. Their protective, upbeat, and friendly nature has earned them the reputation of being great with children. They are quick learners, often excelling in training when dealt with kindness.
For humans, security is a major concern. But when you have a boxer at your house, do you need to worry? Not at all! This giant breed is known to be an excellent watchdog. They are easy to manage as they don’t shed often, and their nails should be trimmed once a month.
They have massively high energy levels, due to which they need regular exercise and playtime. First-time owners should only opt for a boxer if they can handle their energetic nature.
Another thing to note is that if you keep them with other dogs, they won’t appear to be as social as they are with children.
3. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bringing home a Bernese Mountain Dog feels like bringing home a giant teddy bear – one who loves, breathes, and leans on you when you desire comfort.
Grooming is a small price to pay when keeping these beautiful dogs. Weekly brushing during shedding season is important to keep these dogs clean, according to PetMD.
These large breeds don’t need excessive exercise, but moderate daily activity is crucial for them to stay healthy. Some of them are even fond of carting and drafting competitions, and they enjoy pulling small children in a cart. Like most large dog breeds, they eat more food, so keep a budget in mind.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are responsive to training, especially when treated with patience and warmth. If you want them to turn out as great family pets, it is best to avoid harsh commands. The only thing first-time owners should be careful about is their excessive shedding.
4. Greyhound
When people think of greyhounds, a high-speed, high-energy dog comes to their mind. However, the truth is far sweeter and surprising: most Greyhounds are calm, gentle couch-lovers who love their owners and require very little effort to be content.
For novice dog owners, especially those who tend to stay happy in a quiet environment, greyhounds are a wonderful choice.
They are one of the easiest to maintain and best dog breeds when it comes to grooming. This big breed has short, smooth coats that require only occasional brushing and minimal bathing.
Their exercise needs are also quite low. Some short walks every day, and giving them a moderate playtime is enough to keep them happy. They’re sprinters – not endurance athletes – and they are happiest snuggled up beside you. They tend to get bored easily, so keep the training sessions short.
5. German Shepherd Dog
These large breeds can bond well with first-time dog owners if provided enough time and attention. Their temperament is confident, alert, and fiercely affectionate with their families. They’re natural protectors, but when treated with kindness, they’re also incredibly good and gentle with children.
German Shepherds are among the smartest dog breeds and love to learn, work, and obey. Early training and socialization are deemed necessary for them to grow up as well-adjusted, well-mannered dogs. They require moderate grooming. Brushing a few times a week helps to manage shedding.
Playtime plays a massive role in their happiness. These dog breeds for first-timers crave movement, mental stimulation, and agility training. New owners can have a positive experience in raising these dogs if they are ready to provide these large dog breeds the energy they need.
6. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are tall, majestic, and powerful, yet inside that large frame is a gentle, deeply emotional heart. These dog breeds are good-natured and wonderful with kids, often tiptoeing around them like protective giants, as Hill’s Pets notes. They require moderate grooming, which is manageable for new pet parents.
These giant breeds are calm learners when it comes to training. However, early socialization teaches them how to adjust in public and social spaces. They will thrive under patient and consistent guidance. Like many large dog breeds, they need a high-quality diet that supports bone and heart health.
Their little exercise needs consist of a few daily walks and light play. Since they have a strong instinct to hunt and chase prey, they should only be taken in areas that are securely fenced. If you have a house with largely fenced areas, then Wolfhounds would be a great option.
7. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are more than just dogs. They are companions, healers, and family. Universally adored, these dog breeds are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time pet parents. Golden Retrievers are warm, gentle, and extremely affectionate.
They are quite easy to train, which makes them ideal for new pet owners. These dogs enjoy treats, games, and lots of encouragement. Early socialization is also important for them because it strengthens their already loving nature. The Goldens need regular brushing to manage shedding.
When it comes to exercise, daily walks, play sessions, fetch games, and swimming are great ways to keep them happy and fulfilled. They are active, but not overwhelming. A perfect match for families or new owners with moderate energy.
Conclusion
Your first dog will completely transform your life. They’ll teach you how to be patient and responsible and give you the kind of bond you have always dreamed of having. The best dog breeds for first-time dog owners aren’t just about ease or looks – they’re about connection.
Whether you find your companion in a Golden Retriever, your rock in a Newfoundland, your quiet guardian in a Greyhound, or your sunshine in a Boxer, your life is about to get furrier, fuller, and far more beautiful.
Remember, it’s not necessary to be perfect to be a wonderful pet parent. All you need to do is be consistent and willing to show up every day. When these dogs have been given the right amount of love and care, you’ll receive a kind of affection no words can truly capture.
