At first glance, these big dogs seem overwhelming, yet in a family, they often become the calm that everyone adores. They are capable of offering a balance unexpectedly. These breeds bring physical power, large appetites, and high demands for time and space.
Families considering them must look beyond their size and ask whether their lifestyle can support such a presence.
Dog lovers quickly learn that life with these dogs is not about chasing endless energy, but about companionship that is steady, trustworthy, and deeply affectionate. They watch over your property, home, and children without demanding overwhelming routines, but with dedication.
For families willing to meet their needs, these canines give back loyalty and connection on a scale as large as their frame, proving that true canine friendship is not measured in speed but in heart.
Fun Fact: Gentle giant dogs like Saint Bernard have starred in movies and cartoons, often portraying cuteness and devotion.
Top Exceptional Giant Dog Breeds for Families
1. Saint Bernard
Affectionate temperament and intimidating appearance of Saint Bernards balance so perfectly that they excel in guardianship as well as companionship. This large dog breed was originally bred as a service dog to locate and rescue people buried in snowy mountains.
Saint Bernards, with their kind heart are often called gentle giants whose patient nature makes them excellent companions for families with children. Owing to their sheer size, these dogs should be trained and socialized earlier, as with age, handling becomes difficult.
According to the AKC, Saints are powerful yet calm dogs who only need half an hour of physical activity. But, sometimes, they also enjoy being your hiking and hunting partners. Eagerness to please their owners makes these smart dogs trainable.
2. Great Dane
One of the tallest dog breeds, the Great Dane is also celebrated as a great companion for family life. Regardless of their reputation as big dogs, it’s their loving and kind temperament that makes them shine more among the large dog breeds.
They are characterized by some main attributes such as playfulness and friendliness. A well-trained Great Dane reflects calm and tolerant behavior around kids. However, supervision is always important during their interaction with toddlers due to accidental knockovers.
Though these big dogs are also considered gentle giants, however, with strong protective instincts, they can deter any intruder and make great guard dogs. Being an incredibly loyal dog, Danes form strong bonds with their family members.
3. Bernese Mountain Dog
Calm, confident, and affectionate, the Bernese Mountain dog was primarily built as a working dog on Swiss farms. Their protective nature and gentle disposition make them great family dogs. This giant dog breed is blessed with a long, silky, thick double coat shielding it from frigid temperatures.
According to Purina, Bernese average life expectancy ranges from 7 to 10 years only, due to some common health conditions such as bloating, elbow and hip dysplasia, and certain cancers. Daily brushing is mandatory to remove its dead hair, as this large breed sheds heavily.
Although these Mountain Dogs are not very fond of constant outdoor adventures, they can be trained for hikes and hunts. Obedience training is a must for them, but it should always be started at puppyhood for easy management. They are mostly attached to one person in the whole family.
4. Mastiff
One of the oldest dog breeds, the Mastiff dates back to almost the start of civilization. These dogs with large size and graceful personalities hold a separate place in the canine world. They have maintained their temperament, which blends love and a protective demeanor together.
Their formidable size and instincts to guard their beloved ones make them a strong breed that is well-suited to experienced dog owners. Early socialization and gentle training are two crucial factors to have a well-mannered Mastiff. They mostly come in black mask, fawn brindle, and apricot coloring.
These giant dogs have a short coat and less exercise needs, making them a relatively low-maintenance breed. With that said, they can also be happy at apartment living, provided with daily walks of two miles and free play time. They are loyal enough to be trained as guard dogs with a natural wariness of strangers.
5. Estrela Mountain Dog
Originally discovered as a livestock guardian, the Estrela Mountain Dogs are athletic and agile dog breed with massive size and weight. This giant dog is also known for its amiable approach towards children and family. They are affectionately called Serra.
Serras are recognized as self-sufficient, alert, and loyal family dogs in the right environment. They need enough space for a relaxed lifestyle, and they do not make a good choice for apartment dwellers. With a trustworthy temperament and strong protective instincts, they also excel as guard and therapy dogs.
The Estrela Mountain Dog can get along with other dogs, but with early introduction. However, female dogs are more loving and can tolerate the presence of other pets in the house, even in adulthood. Since these working dogs were independently herding flocks, positive reinforcement methods are vital.
6. Romanian Mioritic Shepherd
The giant and long-haired Romanian Mioritic Shepherd ranks among the bearded dog breeds. They are endowed with strong muscular bodies and a dense double coat. Courageous and loyal Romanian Mioritic Shepherds hail from Romania and used to guard the livestock.
Backed by history, today’s Romanian Mioritic Shepherd loves spending time with its family, whom it considers a pack. They bond closely with their owners and behave well around children but do not warmly welcome the strangers.
This large dog breed has long coat which needs high maintenance. They are stubborn yet sensitive dogs that’s why their handling is crucial in training sessions. Since they prefer staying with their own people, they do not need serious amount of exercise but daily walks.
7. Leonberger
This giant dog weighs 90 to 150 pounds and is more in size than height. They reach their maximum size around 1st year of their lives but for maturing they need almost 3 years. Leonbergers first appear in Germany to look like a lion dog, as highlighted by Hill’s Pet.
Unique charm of Leonberger expresses in its temperament which is calm, quiet and active. Though they carry a stubborn streak, but smartness overpowers and they make trainable dogs for owners. Interactions with people and new surrounding is very important for their better upbringing.
In a day Leonberger’s energy levels need an ample amount of exercise. They enjoy outdoor adventures such as hiking, hunting jogging and bicycle riding. Thus this giant breed is a perfect family pet for ones who adore both companionship and adventures.
8. Giant Schnauzer
Giant Schnauzer does not only have big size but also a bigger heart. These bold and vigilant dogs offer great work ethic, loyalty and protection shaping them a valuable asset in homes and fields both. Their beautiful coat amplify their value more as it comes in solid black or pepper and salt colors.
Giant Schnauzer were bred in 1800 as rugged working canines to drive cattle and guard the property of farmers. With time their intelligence and protective instincts make them a reputable dog in Police work in Europe. They are highly trainable with a strong desire to please their owners.
These high energy dogs need proper physical and mental enrichment to stay healthy and happy. With that said, Giant Schnauzers are playful and affectionate dogs who enjoy most of their time as indoor canines preferring their beloved ones more.
9. Bullmastiff
Loyal, brave and affectionate Bullmastiff had an interesting history to tell. This giant dog breed with its imposing presence and a lot of strength and agility was used as gamekeeper’s night dog against poachers. Bullmastiff weighs between 100 pounds to 130 pounds and still a whole lot of dog.
They make excellent guard dogs and companions in family life with proper training and socialization, kudos to their intelligent and confident personality. They do get along with kids and other pets in the house, but take time to warm up to new people, a true trait of guard dog.
This docile and exceptionally intelligent big dog learns quickly in training sessions. Nevertheless all type of training should be started at young age. They do bark only when sensed some threat around themselves alerting their owners.
10. Newfoundland
Nicknamed as nanny dogs, due to their affinity towards kids to protect them. Newfoundland hails from Canada, and is known for its work as water dogs. Nature ahs blessed them with a waterproof coats webbed feet but big hearts making them excellent swimmers and rescue dogs.
They typically carry a watchful yet sweet disposition. Newfoundland dogs are one of the best large dog breeds due to their soft expressions, and gentle spirit. These furry friends are sensitive and only respond to reward based methods.
Other than swimming abilities, newfoundland is equally adept at land as well. These devoted canines need 30 minutes of physical exercise and prefer staying indoors with their families. Daily human interaction is must for Newfies or they develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long.
Conclusion
First impression of a big dog always look imposing. But many families adore large dog breed and want to have some gentle, loyal and loving companion. Their size often hides an affectionate nature that fits seamlessly into family settings.
They are best suited to those who value emotional connection, patience and commitment. They thrive in right environment provided with care and attention that their sizes demand. Ultimately, giant dogs are not a casual choice but are meaningful one.
