Choosing a large dog breed as a beginner can be daunting. Many worry about manageability, temperament, and size. Fortunately, some large breeds are known for being gentle giants, making them ideal for novices. These dogs are not only easy to train but also loyal and loving companions. Whether you live in an apartment or have a sprawling backyard, there’s a big dog that’s just right for you. Explore this list of 13 beginner-friendly large dog breeds that promise to bring joy and companionship to any household.
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is famed for its friendly and outgoing nature. They are highly trainable thanks to their natural intelligence and eagerness to please. Labradors are great with families and enjoy being part of the action, whether it’s a stroll in the park or a game of fetch. Their short coats require minimal grooming, and their adaptability makes them ideal for various living situations. With regular exercise and proper training, Labradors are well-behaved and loyal companions that thrive with human interaction.
Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a strikingly beautiful breed known for its calm and affectionate nature. These dogs are gentle giants, making them ideal for families with children. Despite their large size, they are exceptionally gentle and enjoy participating in family activities. They require regular grooming due to their thick coats. With consistent training and a loving environment, Bernese Mountain Dogs become loyal and devoted family members, bringing warmth and joy into any home.
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are gentle giants known for their sweet disposition and remarkable swimming abilities. They are protective yet gentle, making them excellent family pets. Their thick, water-resistant double coat requires regular grooming to keep them comfortable. These dogs thrive in environments where they can swim and play. With their patient and kind nature, Newfoundlands are perfect for families, providing companionship and a sense of security. They are truly devoted to their humans, making them a cherished addition to any home.
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are best known for their gentle temperament and friendly demeanor. They are incredibly patient and do well with children and other pets. Their intelligence makes them easy to train, and they excel in obedience and agility tasks. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their light, dense coats. With proper exercise and engagement, Golden Retrievers make excellent companions, always eager to join in on family activities or outdoor adventures.
Boxer
Boxers are known for their boundless energy and playful nature. They are loyal and protective, making them excellent family pets. Their short coats require minimal grooming, and they adapt well to different living situations. Boxers are intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement training techniques. With proper exercise and engagement, Boxers form strong bonds with their families, offering both companionship and protection. Their joyful spirit and love for play make them a delightful addition to active households.
Great Dane
Despite their towering size, Great Danes are known for their gentle and friendly nature. They are easygoing and enjoy relaxing with their families. These dogs are low-maintenance in terms of grooming, thanks to their short coats. Great Danes require regular exercise to maintain their health but are generally content with moderate activity levels. With their calm demeanor and affectionate nature, Great Danes are fantastic for families looking for a large, yet gentle companion. Their loyalty and grace make them lovable members of any household.
Collie
Collies are known for their intelligence and loyalty. They are easy to train and enjoy being involved in family activities. Their long coats require regular grooming to keep them looking their best. Collies thrive in environments where they can exercise and use their intelligence in various activities. With their gentle and friendly nature, Collies make wonderful family pets, providing companionship and joy. Their herding instincts also make them protective, ensuring they are always watching over their loved ones.
Irish Setter
Irish Setters are energetic and playful, known for their beautiful red coats and friendly disposition. They are excellent with children and thrive in active households. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make training enjoyable and rewarding. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their stunning coats. Irish Setters are highly sociable and love being part of the family, often joining in on outdoor adventures. Their joyful spirit and loving nature make them delightful companions for active individuals or families.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers are confident and loyal, often misunderstood due to their imposing appearance. They are great family pets when properly trained and socialized. Their short coats require minimal grooming, and they adapt well to various living situations. Rottweilers are protective and form strong bonds with their families. With consistent training and proper socialization, Rottweilers are loving and devoted companions. Their courage and loyalty make them excellent guardians, ensuring their loved ones are always safe and secure.
Mastiff
Mastiffs are known for their massive size and gentle demeanor. Despite their imposing appearance, they are incredibly affectionate and protective. These dogs require regular exercise and a strong, consistent hand in training. Their short coats are low-maintenance, needing only occasional grooming. With their calm and devoted nature, Mastiffs are ideal for those seeking a loyal companion. They are gentle giants that offer both protection and affection, making them a perfect fit for families looking for a trustworthy pet.
Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are gentle giants known for their rescuing abilities and friendly nature. They are patient and great with children, often described as nanny dogs. Regular grooming is necessary due to their thick coats, and they thrive in cooler climates. Saint Bernards are sociable and enjoy being part of family activities. Their gentle and protective nature makes them incredible family pets, providing both companionship and a sense of security. With their loving demeanor, they become cherished members of any household.
Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are strong and independent, yet they possess a friendly and loyal nature. They are great for active families who enjoy outdoor activities. Their thick double coats require regular grooming, especially in warmer climates. Malamutes thrive in environments where they can exercise their strength and endurance. With proper training and engagement, Alaskan Malamutes are loving and dependable companions. Their playful and adventurous spirit makes them ideal for those seeking a robust and active canine friend.
Weimaraner
Weimaraners are known for their sleek appearance and boundless energy. They are affectionate and form strong bonds with their families. These dogs require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Their short coats are easy to maintain but need occasional grooming. With their playful and intelligent nature, Weimaraners make excellent companions for active individuals or families. Their loyalty and eagerness to please ensure they are always ready for an adventure, making them cherished pets for those who love the outdoors.