Large dog breeds often carry an intimidating presence and possess a certain aura. Their broad shoulders, towering height, and those deep, heavy barks can turn heads immediately and deter anyone and anything instantly.
You would be surprised to know that behind so many of those massive dogs is a gentle breed with a gentle nature that makes excellent family pets. These are some of the most affectionate companions you could ever meet.
Many of these big dog breeds have been given the nickname of “gentle giant” because of the calm, patient, and loyal nature they possess that often contrasts with their imposing size and stature. They were originally bred and developed for either guarding, hunting, herding, or working in the fields alongside humans.
This has also impacted their devotion to their human and protective nature. But with the right amount of and timely early training, they have proven that size doesn’t define temperament. Here are some of the friendliest large dog breeds that are as loving as they are strong.
Surprisingly Friendly Big Dog Breeds
1. Black and Tan Coonhound
These are friendly and easygoing hounds who love company despite being large, athletic hunters who work nights, as per the AKC.
They are extremely loyal to their loved ones, very social, and love the company of other people and other dogs. They are also very intelligent and love to work and get the job done.
They are not ideal for first-time owners, though, as they will not blindly follow orders and have a brain of their own that they often use.
This makes them prone to having an independent streak, which can be controlled by consistent training and early socialization. They are social butterflies and are actually good with children; however, these interactions must be supervised.
2. Black Russian Terrier
PetMD notes their calm, confident temperament. They may be aloof with strangers, and rightly so, as they were bred through the cross of Rottweilers, Giant Schnauzer, and the likes of such military dogs.
But they are extremely devoted and develop strong bonds with their own families. With a good amount of exercise, they can be good-natured and wonderful companions.
If we had to describe the Black Russian Terrier in three words, we’d say they are friendly, playful, and protective. It does not need to be trained to accept the leash.
It seeks contact with its family members and loves to be with them. And because they are really intelligent, they are easy to train and have a strong protective instinct.
3. Bloodhound
Being an independent dog, it has a mind of its own that it isn’t shy to use. A Bloodhound likes to make its own decisions.
However, Hill’s Pet reads them to be gentle, patient, and mild-mannered dogs. And also states that they get along with kids, even tolerating those who like to climb on them.
PDSA says that they are gentle and placid, having a great sense of smell, as they were bred for hunting. In the right hands with the right training, they will respond to positive training methods very well.
They have boundless energy as they’re super active, but in home environments, they are easy-going and very affectionate.
They are gentle giants who make good family pets but however, as they are bred to look a certain way, they are prone to certain health conditions that need to be looked into before getting a Bloodhound.
4. Borzoi
A Borzoi is a regal and athletic breed. It can run up to 40 mph. It makes for a very loyal and friendly pet for its own family members, but is also friendly, but not over-the-top-social, with strangers.
They can also get along with almost any other dog breed, too. They are sensitive and have a calm demeanor, which makes them a good option for families seeking a composed, large dog.
These are high-energy dogs who like an active lifestyle and yet are graceful. Some Borzois have a low tolerance for rough play, so they’re better suited for adults or even children who know how to handle them.
Due to their graceful nature, they have earned the nickname “the aristocrat of dogs”, as reported by Purina. It is a courageous breed.
5. Briard
These are friendly and loving companions, but it happens to be because of early human interaction and socialization.
Being working dogs of an old French breed, with a Briard, you need to first earn their respect as they consider their owners to be their equals. They have exercise needs that need to be fulfilled.
Orvis says it is an affectionate, family dog with a quick-learning and hardworking nature. They need a confident person to train them; otherwise, it won’t work.
They can be goofy and clownish and are intensely affectionate and loving with the people they know. They can make great companions due to their loyalty and smarts, with a little patience and attention.
6. Broholmer
A Broholmer is a calm, centered, well-balanced, and friendly breed. They must, however, be self-assured as they still are guard dogs. Their intelligence is impeccable.
Their affection and friendly nature make them wonderful family pets, but their protective instincts require a dedicated owner who will give his/her time to train the dog.
They are known to be friendly not just with children but with other dogs too. They make excellent pets as they know how to handle their size, being a big breed.
With some daily exercise, long walks, and a little regular grooming, their affectionate nature should be the only thing you’d be concerned with.
7. Chinook
A Chinook is friendly with family and kids. But they are reserved with strangers, not aggressive, however. They have a gentle disposition to mellowness, so they’re not suitable to be guard dogs.
They are eager to please, so training is relatively easy. They are determined dogs who need mental stimulation. You can expect loyalty and affection from a Chinook.
They are people-oriented with a special spot for children. They need regular walks to stay healthy, even though they are not particularly busy breeds.
It is a popular dog breed for its role as a sled dog; however, it is not a mountain dog. They are also good with other pets and other breeds.
Conclusion
Whether you talk about the kindest, tallest dog breeds, rescue dogs, large breed dogs, or even the best breed in general. They are still dogs that you will be training at the end of the day. It is important that you remain the owner, confident and composed. That is the only way the dog will remain a dog.
Kids should be supervised around dogs, there should be weekly brushing and regular grooming, and they need to be given the love and attention for them to be on their best behavior and give you the best version of themselves. Remember, you reap what you sow!
