Although there are numerous large, family-friendly canines in the world, specific breeds are renowned for their gentle, loving, and loyal natures, despite their larger size. If you have small children, it is crucial to possess a calm, patient demeanor, as everyone enjoys a good cuddle with a giant dog that believes it is a lap dog.
10 Best Large Dog Breeds for Families
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No matter the breed, each dog is a unique individual, and it is essential to provide your dog with the necessary training and socialization to ensure that they maintain a consistent, benign temperament and behavior. It is imperative that all children are instructed to demonstrate reverence for the family dog by providing them with the necessary space. An over-excited or rambunctious child can push even the most patient, tolerant dog to their limits.
1. Labrador Retriever
There is a plethora of reasons to adore Labrador retrievers, from their perpetual enthusiasm to their sweet, affectionate dispositions. Every year, they are consistently ranked as the most favored breed in the United States. The intelligence and excellent temperament of labradors are well-known. Originally bred for hunting, these dogs are exceptional companions and are more easily trainable than other varieties. Consequently, they are employed as service dogs for the blind, handicapped assistants, therapy dogs, and search and rescue.
2. German Shepherd
For an extended period, German shepherds have been employed as hunting and herding canines in Germany. They are frequently trained as service dogs and are employed by the military, police, and search and rescue due to their intelligence and diligent demeanor. This breed is an ideal option for an active family due to its exceptional loyalty and affection.
3. Golden Retriever
From the ’90s sitcom “Full House” to the “Air Bud” movie franchise, golden retrievers are portrayed as the quintessential family dog in film and television. Goldens are renowned for their intelligence, patience, and extremely sweet, loving personalities. Golden retrievers are an additional popular choice for service as therapy, search and rescue, or consolation dogs.
4. Bernese Mountain Dog
This Swiss breed, also known as Berners, Bernies, or Bernese mountain canines, is willing to risk their lives and limbs to assist in the rescue of individuals who are stranded in the Alps. It is exceedingly protective of individuals, yet it does not exhibit any aggressive behavior. In spite of their substantial size, they are exceedingly delicate, particularly with younger children, and they cherish participation in family activities.
5. Boxer
Boxers are truly exceedingly sweet, attention-loving dogs, despite their tough-guy name. Boxers are highly responsive to positive attention; however, they may be somewhat excitable. Therefore, it is advisable to consider training if you have very young children or if your boxer has a tendency to leap on people. Boxers frequently exhibit a strong affinity for children and a natural inclination to safeguard the family.
6. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes, which were originally bred to pursue powerful prey such as bears and seals, are now fully domesticated, gentle giants that would be an excellent addition to an active family. This breed is characterized by a naturally friendly disposition, which results in them greeting the majority of strangers as friends rather than foes. Consequently, they are not suitable as security dogs.
7. Goldendoodle
Consider adopting a goldendoodle if you or a family member has allergies and your family is obligated to have a dog. Despite the fact that no dog is genuinely hypoallergenic, goldendoodles are approaching it due to their poodle lineage. This breed is highly intelligent, athletic, lovable, and well-behaved with children and other creatures.
8. Basset Hound
Although a basset hound may not appear to be a large breed at first glance, their average weight is comparable to that of Siberian huskies, golden retrievers, and goldendoodles, to name a few. Despite their tendency to be extremely obstinate, basset hounds are renowned for their unwavering loyalty and devotion to their family members. They are patient and affectionate with children and other creatures, provided that the dog has been properly socialized. Be prepared for a small amount of training, as these canines possess an independent mind.
9. Great Dane
The Great Dane is the gentle giant of the canine world, weighing in at 200 pounds when completely grown, and being calm and loyal. However, do not be deceived by their immense size; these king-sized canines are at ease and necessitate only a few daily walks once they have matured. Although Great Danes are affectionate toward children, they are capable of injuring them by accidentally running into them.
10. Rottweiler
This breed is known for its lively and affectionate nature. Rottweilers are occasionally maligned; however, they are superb family canines for households with older children. They are less suitable for households with younger children. Like numerous varieties, Rotties were initially bred to herd cattle, utilizing their solid and bulky bodies to prod the cattle in the appropriate direction. Nevertheless, they have a propensity to herd children, occasionally prodding them, which could result in a small child being knocked over. A Rottweiler may also be excessively protective of the children in its household and may intervene when they are engaging in violent play with other children. The dog’s prey urge may be activated, causing it to pursue children who are running.
Breeds to Avoid
It is imperative that children are instructed on how to behave in the presence of canines. Nevertheless, if your children are more difficult to train than canines, the following breeds should be eliminated from consideration: huskies, chow chows, and Akitas. It is probable that these canines will not tolerate children who walk on top of them, pull their hair, stare at them, run around, or shout and squeal. These spitz varieties are more independent-minded and aloof. Additionally, Chihuahuas, Pekingese, and shih tzus are smaller canines with robust personalities that may not appreciate being tugged and challenged by small humans.