Big dogs exude power! They are strong, sturdy, and have an imposing stature that keeps the strangers at bay! At the same time, they are also elegant. There is a certain kind of grace around them, making them appear dignified and distinguished. From the Afghan Hound, which is known for its elegance, to the Doberman Pinscher, which is just so graceful, these dogs are surely sophisticated.
These dogs appear elegant because, despite their massive size, they are not clumsy. Rather, you’ll see good coordination in the movements and a great use of their body parts. They are popular for the fluidity with which they move.
Also known as gentle giants, these canines are calm and charming. You won’t see them making noise without a reason, and it would be a great addition to homes that prefer calmness over chaos. In this article, we shall talk about dogs that are big enough to participate in and win canine sports and elegant enough to be your family members.
Elegant Large Dog Breeds
1. Borzoi
Height: 28 inches
Weight: 75-105 pounds
Appearance: Large, graceful, and athletic
These dogs were originally bred in Russia with the sole purpose of hunting wolves. Even today, these dogs are known for their speed, agility, and independent nature.
With a weight of 105 pounds and a height of 28 inches, you can imagine how massive this dog would be!
AKC calls this giant dog breed an elegant sighthound.
What really makes these dogs distinguished in their appearance is a long, narrow head that is visible even from afar. PetMD describes that they also have a deep chest and a curved back.
Overall, this dog has a very graceful appearance, making it one of the most elegant dogs out there.
2. Afghan Hound
Height: 25-27 inches
Weight: 50-60 pounds
Appearance: Regal
If there is one dog that is really known for its regal appearance, it surely is the Afghan Hound. They are so gorgeous that most of the pet parents are willing to pay the high cost that comes with getting the ownership of this dog without a second thought!
They are also okay with putting up some extra efforts in grooming them!
Yes, compared to other hound dogs, they have silky coats that are really long in length and prominent hips; they are easy to distinguish in the dog world. Also, their large paws give them an elegant appearance. Further, their tail comes with a “doughnut” bend.
To keep its silky coat presentable, you’ll have to give it a bath every 1-2 weeks. Use a rubber brush to avoid hair breakage.
They are excellent companions, especially if you want a dog that doesn’t yap all the time. This large breed is definitely a good addition to a home with adults!
3. Saluki
Height: 23 and 28 inches
Weight: 40-65 pounds
Appearance: Slender, athletic
These medium to large dogs are known to be really elegant and have an affectionate nature!
Appearance-wise, they are not wide. Rather, they have a thin and athletic build. With a greyhound-like formation, a deep chest, and a slim body, this one is definitely a regal dog.
What really makes this dog elegant is its smooth, flowing, and effortless gait. The dog is not clumsy, and you’ll never see it hitting itself into a piece of furniture, even if it’s running around the house.
Originally used by the nomadic tribes to run down big animals, this dog is now an aloof and shy dog that doesn’t really mingle with unknown faces. They will surely bark to alert you to something strange they observe, but they are not naturally inclined to confront or strike intruders.
Nonetheless, as a pet dog, it would surely make a truly devoted family member.
4. Irish Setter
Height: 24 to 28 inches
Weight: 65-70 pounds
Appearance: Sturdy, lanky build
These dogs with long legs and a deep chest are known to be phenomenal gundogs.
If you are looking for a pet dog that is a complete looker in terms of appearance, this one is a great choice. It stands tall and is super-elegant in appearance.
Their eyes are dark hazel to dark brown, making the dog appear really wise and intelligent. Also, its coat is deep mahogany in colour, giving it an absolutely gorgeous look. These big pups with muscular hindquarters and long, strong legs are athletic in nature and love outdoor adventures.
The Irish Setter is a famously good family dog that is super-protective of its family members. Even for first-time owners, having this dog as a pet won’t be an issue as it is a highly intelligent dog that is easy to train at home.
5. Standard Poodle
Height: 18–24 inches
Weight: 40–70 pounds.
Appearance: Well-balanced and athletic
Standard Poodle is the biggest of the Poodle breed and is known for its elegance, affectionate nature, and athletic body.
Purina describes the body of this dog to have a square outline, and it plays a major role in making it look graceful.
As far as the coat of this dog is concerned, it is dense and curly. For pet owners who really want their dogs to look ‘different’, clipping the Poodle is possible, and that too in different styles and manners.
If you decide not to clip, you need to be really regular in its grooming. This way, you’ll be able to prevent mats and tangles. Even better would be to get your dog professionally groomed every four to six weeks.
6. Doberman Pinscher
Height: 24-28 inches
Weight: 60-100 pounds
Appearance: Powerful build
The Doberman Pinscher is an elegant dog breed with a confident stride.
AKC describes their body as sleek but substantial! Further, the noble head and graceful movement of this working dog set it apart from others in the dog world.
Its muscles appear to be well-defined in a streamlined, athletic body. With its elegant demeanour, it oozes grace and classiness wherever it goes.
At home, they are alert and watchful, raising up their ears to every noise and getting ready to react.
7. Samoyed
Height: 19–23.5 inches
Weight: 35–65 pounds
Appearance: Sturdy, well-muscled
Another medium to large dog breed that will make you go in awe just with its grace and poise is the Samoyed.
Well, half of the marks for its elegant personality are definitely for its white coat! These big pups come with a thick, weather-resistant double coat that makes them appear.
Britannica says its adorable Sammy smile is also quite popular among dog lovers. You won’t be able to overlook its canine elegance as you’ll surely be smitten by it! The strides that it makes while walking are almost incomparable.
Samoyeds are sturdily built and have erect ears. You’ll be able to spot one in a crowd easily!
Conclusion
Elegant dogs ooze a sense of grace and poise. They are gentle, calm, and never wreak havoc in the house. Some other dogs that you should definitely consider having are the Bernese mountain dog, Alaskan Malamute, German Shepherd, Belgian Sheepdog, Tibetan Mastiff, Irish Wolfhound, Great Pyrenees, and Saint Bernard. They make phenomenal guard dogs, watchdogs, and even tireless working dogs.
