10 Best Large Dog Breeds for Families
Many large, family-friendly dogs are available, but certain breeds are renowned for their loyalty, affection, and gentle nature�even with their large size. A calm and patient personality is crucial for families with young children, and who doesn't love a cuddle with a giant dog that considers itself a lap dog?
Here are 10 large, family-friendly dog breeds to consider if you want to expand your family pack.
01 of 10
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retriever Known for their sweet, loving personalities and endless enthusiasm, Labrador Retrievers are widely adored. They consistently rank as one of the United States' most beloved breeds. Labradors are intelligent, friendly, and even-tempered, making them easier to train compared to other breeds. Consequently, they often work as service dogs for the blind, handicapped assistants, therapy dogs, and search and rescue.
Breed Overview
02 of 10
German Shepherd
German Shepherd German Shepherds have historically served as hunting and herding dogs in Germany. Due to their intelligence and diligent nature, they are commonly trained as service dogs and are employed by police, search and rescue teams, and the military. This breed is deeply loyal and loving, making it an ideal choice for an active family.
Breed Overview
03 of 10
Golden Retriever
Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers are often portrayed as the quintessential family dogs in movies and TV shows, from the '90s sitcom 'Full House' to the 'Air Bud' movie series. Known for their affectionate and patient nature, along with their intelligence, Golden Retrievers make excellent companions. They are also favored for roles in search and rescue, therapy, or as comfort dogs.
Breed Overview
04 of 10
Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dog Whether called Berners, Bernies, or Bernese Mountain Dogs, this Swiss breed is known for risking life and limb to rescue people stranded in the Alps. They are highly protective but not aggressive. Despite their size, they are gentle, especially with small children, and enjoy being part of family activities.
Breed Overview
05 of 10
Boxer
Boxer Despite their tough-sounding name, Boxers are incredibly affectionate, attention-loving dogs. They respond well to positive reinforcement but can become excitable. Consider training if you have very young children or if your Boxer tends to jump on people. Boxers generally get along well with children and have a natural instinct to protect their family.
Breed Overview
06 of 10
Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamute Originally bred to hunt powerful prey like bears and seals, today's Alaskan Malamutes are domesticated and gentle giants, making them excellent additions to active families. Their naturally friendly disposition leads them to greet most strangers as friends. Consequently, they do not make effective guard dogs.
Breed Overview
07 of 10
Goldendoodle
If you or a family member suffers from allergies—but your family must have a dog—consider bringing home a goldendoodle. While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, goldendoodles come close, thanks to their poodle lineage. This breed is highly intelligent, athletic, lovable, and great with children and other pets.
Breed Overview
08 of 10
Basset Hound
Basset Hound Basset Hounds may not look like large breeds at first glance, but their average weight ranks them along side Siberian huskies, Golden Retrievers, and Goldendoodles. Although Basset Hounds can be quite stubborn, they are known for their devotion and unwavering loyalty to their families. They're affectionate and patient with children and other pets (provided they've been properly socialized). Be prepared for some training—these hounds have a mind of their own.
Breed Overview
09 of 10
Great Dane
Great Dane Calm, loyal, and reaching up to 200 pounds when fully grown, the Great Dane is the gentle giant of the canine world. Despite their massive size, these king-sized pooches are calm and only need a few walks a day once they grow out of puppyhood. Great Danes adore children, though their size means they can accidentally knock a child over.
Breed Overview
10 of 10
Rottweiler
Rottweiler Rottweilers have a playful and affectionate side but sometimes get an undeserved bad reputation. They can be excellent family dogs, especially with older children�not so much with the very young. Like many breeds, Rotties were initially bred to herd cattle by using their strong, bulky bodies to nudge cattle in the right direction. They may also try to herd children, which could result in accidentally knocking over a smaller child. A Rottweiler might become overly protective of the children in its family and try to intervene during rough play with other kids. Their prey drive can also be triggered to chase running children.
Breed Overview
Breeds to Avoid
Children must be taught how to act around dogs. However, if your children are harder to tame than dogs, then some breeds to drop from consideration include Akitas, chow chows, and huskies. These dogs likely will not tolerate children who walk all over them, pull their hair, stare them down, run around, or shout and squeal. These spitz breeds are more aloof and independent-minded. Also, some smaller dogs with big personalities that may not want to be tugged and challenged by little humans include Chihuahuas, Pekingese, and shih tzus.
