Large Dog Breeds That Make Perfect Pets

English Mastiffs are among the largest dog breeds, known for their massive size and calm temperament. Standing at 28 to 31 inches tall and weighing between 150 and 200 pounds, they are gentle and affectionate with their families. These dogs are highly loyal and form strong bonds with their owners, making them excellent family companions. Despite their size, Mastiffs are surprisingly easygoing and enjoy relaxing at home. However, they require plenty of space to move around comfortably and regular walks to stay healthy.

The Dogue de Bordeaux, also called the French Mastiff, is another impressive breed known for its strength and loyalty. Despite their large size, these dogs can adapt to apartment living with proper training and exercise. They are affectionate and protective, making them ideal for families who want a devoted pet. The Dogue de Bordeaux is muscular and sturdy, weighing up to 140 pounds, and needs consistent socialization to ensure they are well-behaved around strangers and other animals.

Great Danes are often called the “Apollo of Dogs” due to their towering stature and elegant appearance. Standing as tall as 34 inches and weighing up to 175 pounds, they are one of the largest dog breeds. Despite their size, Great Danes are gentle, friendly, and affectionate. They are great with children and enjoy spending time with their families. However, their large size means they need ample space and regular exercise to stay fit and healthy.

Newfoundlands are large, fluffy dogs known for their water rescue abilities and affectionate nature. They can weigh up to 150 pounds and stand nearly 30 inches tall. These dogs are gentle with children and make excellent family pets. Newfoundlands require plenty of space to roam and regular grooming to maintain their thick coats. They enjoy outdoor activities and are happiest when they have room to explore and play.

St. Bernards are famous for their roles as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps and their appearances in family movies like Beethoven . These gentle giants can weigh between 120 and 180 pounds and stand up to 30 inches tall. St. Bernards are loyal, loving, and great with kids, making them wonderful family dogs. They require regular grooming due to their thick coats and need ample space to move around comfortably.

The Leonberger is a large and affectionate breed that often weighs between 125 and 170 pounds. These dogs are known for their loyalty and strong bond with their families. Leonbergers are protective yet gentle, making them great companions for households with children. They need regular exercise and grooming to keep their thick coats in good condition. Due to their size, they are best suited for homes with plenty of space.

The Anatolian Shepherd is a hardworking and independent breed originally bred to guard livestock. These dogs can weigh up to 150 pounds and thrive in environments with ample outdoor space, such as farms or ranches. While they are not typically suited for casual companionship, they are incredibly loyal and protective. Consistent training and socialization are necessary to ensure they develop into well-mannered pets.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, friendly, and known for their striking tri-colored coats. They can weigh up to 115 pounds and stand about 27 inches tall. These dogs are excellent with children and enjoy spending time outdoors. While they love lounging at home, they also need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Bernese Mountain Dogs thrive in cooler climates and prefer homes with large yards or access to open spaces.

Alaskan Malamutes are powerful, energetic dogs originally bred for pulling heavy sleds in the Arctic. These dogs weigh between 75 and 85 pounds and are known for their strength and endurance. Malamutes are friendly, intelligent, and loyal, making them excellent family pets. They thrive in homes with large yards and require regular exercise to stay mentally and physically stimulated.

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a robust breed that can weigh up to 140 pounds. Known for their striking tri-colored coats, these dogs are friendly, gentle, and excellent with children. They were historically used for herding and pulling carts and still possess a strong work ethic. Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs need regular exercise and a spacious living environment to stay happy and healthy.

Borzois, or Russian wolfhounds, are elegant and aristocratic dogs known for their speed and agility. Weighing between 60 and 100 pounds, these sighthounds are gentle, affectionate, and well-suited for families. They require regular exercise, such as long walks or runs, and prefer homes with secure yards. Borzois have a calm temperament, making them suitable for various living environments.

The Cane Corso is a muscular and imposing breed that can weigh up to 110 pounds. Known for their protective nature, these dogs are loyal and affectionate with their families. Cane Corsos requires confident, experienced owners who can provide consistent training and socialization. They thrive in homes with plenty of space and enjoy activities that challenge their strength and agility.

Dobermans are sleek, athletic dogs known for their intelligence and loyalty. These dogs weigh between 60 and 100 pounds and excel at tasks like obedience training and agility. They are devoted to their families and make excellent companions for active households. Dobermans require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and ensure they remain well-behaved.